Cox declaring war on HD Tivo?

Recently I received this letter from my local Cox Cable operator. Somehow...deep down...I knew this was coming. Cox will not offer new HD channels to subscribers using a CableCard device - which is used by the HD Tivo unit. Instead, to receive new HD channels you are required to use a Cox set-top DVR or receiver.

The funny this is that they try to pass this off as a technology issue - as if they need a 2-way device to add channels to the lineup. In reality, they want you on systems where they can sell you programs on demand, and they are willing to force you to obsolete your (very) expensive equipment to make that happen.

Clearly I will be willing to live without it - yet another reason to use NetFlix, Amazon Unbox, or just dive into Blue-Ray or HD DVD. But it's a darn shame that Cox has taken this attitude and is so willing to screw their customers.

I wrote Cox customer service about this issue - and received a response that is essentially identical to the paper letter. Once again they are quick to advertise how I can throw away my Tivo and use their devices.

Dear Valued Cox Customer:

Thank you for contacting our Cox Northern Virginia Online Customer CareTeam. We understand your concern and apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. Please be assured that we are not phasing our CableCARDs or forcing our customers to subscribe to our DVR service.

We will be implementing future products and services which will require two-communication and unfortunately, at this time, currently deployed CableCARDs are one-way.

We hope to offer standalone two-way CableCARDs in the future for devices that are two-way compatible.

For customers that would like to take full advantage of their Cox experience, we are offering the option to obtain a Cox Digital set-top receiver at no additional cost for 12 months. We have an offer for those who would like a Cox DVR free for three months.

Again, we are not phasing out CableCARD technology.

If you need additional information on other Cox products or services, please visit our web site at http://www.cox.com/fairfax We hope that we have been able to provide you with the information you requested. If we have not, or if we can be of any additional service to you, please do not hesitate to contact us again.

My name is Clifton. Thank you for choosing Cox Communications, Your Friend in the DigitalAge!

My friend indeed.