Comcast has over 22 million cable subscribers across the nation.
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As of June 2011, Comcast is the largest cable operator in the United States. The provider also offers high-speed Internet and digital home phone service to subscribers to supplement its cable offerings. Comcast announced that on May 25, 2011 it had reached a milestone with its customer viewing 20 billion programs through the On Demand service, which lets you view content on your schedule versus when it airs.
What Does Comcast Do?
Comcast's core business is cable television and the company's roots go back to 1963 when Ralph Roberts, one of the company's founders, bought American Cable Systems in Tupelo, Mississippi for $500,000. Comcast has 22.8 million video customers, 17 million high-speed Internet customers, 8.6 million phone customers and transacts business in 39 states and the District of Columbia, according to its 2010 annual report. The provider has a number of competitors which include phone companies, satellite Internet providers as well as online video and movie streaming providers.
How Many Companies Has Comcast Acquired?
Comcast has acquired 120 companies, and counting, since being established. The acquisition of NBC Universal raised a lot of concern among people who felt that Comcast may become a monopoly and stifle growth in the marketplace. The deal was approved by the Federal Communications Commission after careful scrutiny. Other acquisitions include Alameda Power Radiance Technologies, an online address book service; Plaxo, Movies.com, North Country Cablevision and cable operator Patriot Media & Communications.
What Services Does Comcast Provide?
Comcast provides digital cable, high-speed Internet and digital phone service to its subscribers. The company's many acquisitions support the enhancement of its core services in one way or another. Comcast digital TV subscribers have access to interactive options that allow them to pause, rewind and fast forward programming. Customers who purchase a digital video recorder box can record programs for later viewing. On Demand is a service that allows you to watch entertainment content when you choose versus when it's being broadcast. High-speed Internet subscribers may experience speeds in excess of 100 megabits per second, depending on the plan selected. Digital phone subscribers may choose from an unlimited local or long distance calling package with a host of calling features such as caller ID, call waiting, and three-way calling.
How Are Customers Billed?
Comcast bills subscribers monthly and doesn't require long-term contracts for any of its services. Where multiple services are bundled, these are combined on one monthly bill with one due date. Subscribers should note that delinquent payments may result in late fees or suspension or termination of services. When establishing services with Comcast, you agree to pay all charges associated with services such as federal, state, and local taxes and fees, if applicable.
How Do I Work for Comcast?
If you have an interest in working for Comcast, you may submit an application on the provider's website. The company participates in the E-Verify program, which checks information inputted on your I-9 form against data from the Social Security Administration and U.S. Department of Homeland Security to verify your employment eligibility. Management, call center, sales or field technician positions may be available in your area.
References
- Yahoo Finance; Comcast Announces Milestone In TV Viewing; May 2011
- U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission; Form 10-K - Comcast Corporation; 2010
- Associated Press: Key Dates in the History of Comcast Corp; January 2011
- Alacra Store: Comcast Corporation Mergers and Acquisitions
Photo Credits
- William Thomas Cain/Getty Images News/Getty Images