TiVo has just let their intentions be known in regards to their pricing model. It has been rumored that the lifetime subscription might be eliminated, and today TiVo confirmed that fear. Instead, TiVo will be offering three pricing plans that will include both the TiVo service and an 80-hour TiVo box. The worst part is that the subscriptions are basically like cell phone contracts, but without the credit check. You have to choose a one-, two-, or three-year commitment. The plans are as follows:

• One year: $19.95 a month or $224 prepaid.
• Two years: $18.95 a month or $369 prepaid.
• Three years: $16.95 a month or $469 prepaid.

If you cancel before your service is scheduled to end, you are charged an early termination fee. Wow.

“Over the past several months, we have done extensive research on our pricing strategy and distribution model with a focus on finding the simplest and most efficient way to increase sales and drive penetration of the TiVo service among consumers,” said Tom Rogers, CEO of TiVo. “After extensive testing and evaluation of various pricing and packaging approaches, we will launch a subscription option that combines the sale of the TiVo service together with the TiVo box.”

The new pricing model goes into effect next week, and will not have any bearing on current TiVo customers. Any new TiVos sold at retail will come with the option of choosing your subscription term, as will TiVos ordered directly from the company. No word on how this will affect the cost of the TiVo Series 3 once it hits retail.

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