Dallas (TX) - A US District Court has temporarily prohibited DirecTV from moving HDNet and HDNet Movies to a new, more expensive programming package, a decision that may become permanent as early as next month.

DirecTV's current programming plans include the option to receive all HD channels for around an extra $10 per month.  However, earlier this year it announced that another tier would be created, and customers would need to pay yet another $5/month to get HDNet, HDNet Movies, and Universal HD.  

Earlier this month, HDNet filed a lawsuit against the satellite provider, claiming the move would irreperably damage its viewer base.  DirecTV said the suit was without merit, but US District Court Judge Teresa Snelson disagreed.

In her ruling, Snelson said the programming switch "will probably suffer imminent and irreparable harm because of a loss of customers, irreparable damage to its goodwill, programming and business unless this temporary restraining order is entered," according to trade publication Multichannel News.

Therefore, DirecTV must keep HDNet and HDNet Movies under its basic HD package until December 10.  However, the satcaster did not even plan on switching the services until December 15.  The two battling parties will meet in court on December 7, when HDNet will formally present its case for a permanent restraining order.

HDNet is correct

Nov 15, 2007 12:01     

HDNet is correct, I would not pay to watch there channels on another tier of HD programming. I like all the HD channels in one package for a low price. There arguement has merit and i hope they win.
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Thank you Mark

Nov 15, 2007 12:28     

Thank you for protecting the real boss-customer. THANK YOU MARK
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Nice try

Nov 15, 2007 13:06     

It's a nice try and I commend them for it, but I think Directv will win this one in the end. Like cable, HD net will become a premium service that you have to pay extra for. I don't agree with this, but if enough people (customers) complain, then directv will drop this ideal all together. If people stop using their services, then they will realize who the real boss is.
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