Comcast and Time Warner Cable merger promises better TV

[Commentary] Comcast and Time Warner Cable agreed to combine operations in order to create a stronger national competitor that can invest to offer better and faster Internet service, a richer and more diverse television experience, and more innovation and advanced services for residential and business customers alike.

Consumers will get:

• Faster broadband. Internet speed is tied to investment in broadband networks. Our investment in a faster all-digital network was completed nearly two years ago, while Time Warner Cable lags behind. As a result, the vast majority of our customers receive 25 Mbps or more, while the majority of Time Warner Cable's receive 15 Mbps or less.
• Better television and video services. With over 50,000 on-demand and 300,000 streaming choices, our Xfinity platform gives customers more programming options than anyone in the business. Our new X1 operating system and user interface enable viewers to control their TVs via mobile devices and search for favorite actors or directors across live and on-demand viewing options with just the sound of their voice.

The transaction will:

• Advance Network Neutrality. Comcast supported the FCC's 2010 Open Internet rules and remains legally bound by them even after the court decision striking them down for everyone else. The transaction will now extend the geographic reach of these network neutrality rules to millions of Americans in Time Warner Cable territories.
• Make the Internet more accessible. Our Internet Essentials program has provided low-cost home Internet to over 1.2 million low-income Americans, making what one civil rights leader called the "biggest experiment ever" on the digital divide even bigger.
• Enhance programming diversity. Comcast carries over 160 independent networks , and we've helped launch diverse networks such as TV One, Revolt TV, ASPiRE, BabyFirst Americas, El Rey, and Crossings TV.
• Help businesses reduce Internet and telephone service costs. Combining our companies will drive prices down while enhancing quality and service for small, medium and large businesses - especially regional firms that we can't sell to without the expanded reach of the combined company.

[Cohen is executive vice president and chief diversity officer of Comcast]