HTPC: The Cost of Guide Data

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As anyone running freeware HTPC DVR software already knows Zap2It will cease to provide free guide data as of 9/1. While I’m sure there’ll be (already are?) solutions that scrape or import programming info (from somewhere), Schedules Direct is attempting to fill the void with a pay service of $5/mo. Wonder how many PC users will migrate to Windows MCE, BeyondTV, or SageTV (all of which include guide data)? Hard core MythTV (Linux) users march to the beat of a different drummer – I don’t foresee them migrating anywhere. In fact, the majority of Schedules Direct’s board is comprised of MythTV representatives. Though it’s yet to be seen how many of these free software aficionados will actually pay up…

4 thoughts on “HTPC: The Cost of Guide Data”

  1. I agree with you that most MythTV users won’t likely be swayed by this, but I wonder if any Media Portal or GBPVR users might reconsider and take another look at Beyond TV, SageTV or MCE?

    I really don’t know as I’m not in their shoes, but it will be interesting regardless.

    Brent

  2. Why does no one ever mention $5/mo is temporary?

    The goal after the first 3 months, (when they have an idea of the number of subscribers), is $20/year.

    It’s right there on their site.

    Chuck

  5. They should have come out with a yearly plan right away, once we pay that 15 for 3 months, they will figure, hey why not keep the price the same. $9.95 a year is worth it, $60 a year is not.

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