If you use Cox Communications, you’ve probably heard the news about its merger with Spectrum—and you’re probably wondering, What does this actually mean for my family?
With a change this big, it’s understandable to have questions. Will your bill change? Do you need to switch plans? Will you have to replace your equipment? And what happens to the service you already have?
First Things First, You Don’t Need to Do Anything Right Now
For current Cox customers, there’s no need to panic or rush to make a change. Your current service and pricing aren’t suddenly changing overnight. Existing customers can continue with their current package and pricing, and beginning around mid-September, they’ll have the opportunity to review Spectrum’s offerings.
During a press conference on August 20, President and CEO Chris Winfrey emphasized that customers will have options and that there’s no pressure to make a switch. So, if you’re wondering, “Do I need to call Cox, change my plan, or do something before the transition?” the answer is no.
A Free Year of Mobile Service
One of the new offerings that may catch families’ attention is free mobile service. Officials say both new and existing Cox customers can receive one year of free mobile service, effective now.
For families already paying for multiple phone lines, along with home internet and potentially TV or streaming services, that could mean another opportunity to save on a monthly household expense. Of course, families will want to look at the details of the offer and compare it with what they’re currently paying before making a change.
So, What Does This Mean for the Way Families Use the Internet?
For most families, internet service isn’t just about getting online anymore. It corresponds with nearly every part of daily life. Your child might be streaming upstairs while you’re working downstairs. Multiple kids might be gaming or doing homework at the same time. You may be relying on Wi-Fi for schoolwork, working from home, or using mobile service to stay connected when your family is away from the house. That makes connectivity an important part of family life.
One of the major focuses of the transition is how internet, mobile, and entertainment services can work together. For families considering new Spectrum offerings, the transition may be an opportunity to look at what they’re currently paying for, what services they actually use, and whether bundling services could make sense for their household.
A New Investment in Digital Inclusion and Education
The transition also comes with a new $50 million investment aimed at addressing community needs, including digital inclusion and education. The investment is reportedly in addition to community work already happening across the Cox and Spectrum footprint.
Quick Facts Families Should Know
- Do I need to do anything right now? No. Current Cox customers can continue with their existing service and pricing.
- When will I see new options? Customers will have the opportunity to review Spectrum offerings beginning around mid-September.
- Is there a mobile offer? Yes. Officials say new and existing Cox customers can receive one year of free mobile service, effective now.
- Will the Cox name disappear? Charter will change its corporate name to Cox Communications, while Spectrum will remain the public-facing brand.
- Will customer service be available around the clock? Yes. Customers will have access to 24-hour service, giving families the ability to get help whenever they need it.
- What happens to Cox employees? Current Cox employees will continue working under Charter, and the company plans to add 1,000 new jobs.
- What happens to Cox.com? The Cox.com website will transition to Charter.com, which will direct customers to the new Spectrum website.
For families, that means this transition doesn’t have to be another thing to figure out all at once. You have time to understand what’s changing, see what options become available, and decide what works best for your household.
To learn more about the acquisition, visit corporate.charter.com/newsroom.
