DISH Questions Time Warner Upgrades

In a letter to the Federal Communications Commission, DISH argues that already-planned upgrades to the Time Warner Cable network mean current customers will get a boost regardless of whether the deal with Charter is approved. DISH is trying to show that faster networks for TWC customers isn't a merger-specific benefit and therefore shouldn't be counted as a reason to approve it.

In response, Charter said its plan to boost the TWC network outdoes what TWC would do itself. That's partly because TWC's planned upgrades only cover about 75 percent of its customers. Charter also said it will make TWC and Bright House Networks all-digital operations. "We believe all TWC and BHN customers would similarly appreciate these benefits and look forward to delivering them within 30 months of our transactions closing," Charter said in a statement.