Comcast adds channels in HD, other services

Comcast is rolling out new HD channels and more services beginning Sept. 2.

The cable, Internet and telephone company will launch 39 new HD channels in September and October, in addition to more Internet speed , digital voice services and video on-demand, said Abu Khan, the vice president and general manager of Comcast in Augusta.

Comcast is switching its expanded basic channels from analog to digital, so customers will need a digital adapter box , said marketing manager Tina Baggott.

All customers will receive two free digital adapters. Limited basic customers, however, will not receive the new digital channels, she said.

Comcast will double Internet speeds - up to 50 Mb per second - for most existing customers at no additional charge, Mr. Khan said.

Additional digital services include universal caller ID, the ability to send text messages from a home telephone and an enhanced cordless telephone, which is Internet and telephone service built into one, Mr. Khan said.

Comcast is also expanding its video on demand services and plans to have more than 10,000 programs and shows, in addition to more than 1,000 HD choices, when the company completes the transition. This includes Local on Demand programs, such as local high school football, police blotter and dating on demand, Mrs. Baggott said.

Reach LaTina Emerson at (706) 823-3227 or latina.emerson@augustachronicle.com.