Comcast to tweak Internet Essentials program

Comcast (Nasdaq: CMCSA) plans to unveil changes to its Internet Essentials program for low-income homes Tuesday afternoon, a program which has been criticized by some consumer groups, saying that it is too difficult for consumers to qualify for $9.95 monthly high-speed Internet access.

Complying with a condition regulators placed on its merger with NBCUniversal, Comcast began offering discounted high-speed Internet access on systems nationwide to families with children who qualify for the federal school lunch program. Some activist groups have complained that the MSO hasn't made enough of an effort to advertise the program, and that some consumers have had difficulties signing up for Internet Essentials.

Comcast has scheduled a teleconference with EVP David Cohen for 2:30 p.m. ET. The MSO said in invitation to reporters that Cohen will discuss "enhancements to the program that will be implemented going forward," in addition to a progress report.

Look for Cohen to detail plans to increase marketing support for Internet Essentials. The MSO could also increase the download speeds it offers to low-income homes that qualify for the program. While Comcast currently offers download speeds of 1.5 Mbps, Cablevision (NYSE: CVC) has said that it will offer low income homes that qualify for a similar program its standard 15 Mbps high-speed product.

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