Cablevision Systems said it has increased the max downstream speed of its “core” Optimum Online high-speed Internet tier from 15 Mbps to 25 Mbps, a move that also happens to puts it in line with the FCC’s new definition of broadband.

The downstream speed boost for the flagship tier, which starts at $39.99 per month as a standalone offering, is being provided to new and existing residential and business customers at no incremental cost, said Cablevision, an MSO that has been styling itself as a “connectivity” company. 

Of recent note, Cablevision CEO James Dolan told an investor conference that the MSO’s data service outperforms video by a 7-to-1 margin, and that operators much be ready to shift their business approach as high-speed Internet customers surpass video subs. Cablevision has been backing that up by introducing new packages tailored for cord-cutters, becoming the first MVPD distribution partner for the new HBO Now standalone OTT service, agreeing to offer Hulu, expanding its WiFi network to 1.1 million hotspots (via a mix of access points in public locations and in home-side routers), and launching Freewheel, a WiFi-only phone service.

Cablevision is also a member of Open Connect, Netflix’s private CDN, and ranks near the top of the OTT provider’s monthly ISP Speed Index.

“We are taking the next step as New York’s premier connectivity company to provide a better, faster data experience both inside and outside the home at no additional cost,” Kristin Dolan, chief operating officer of Cablevision, said in a statement about the speed bump. “This speed increase, along with Optimum WiFi, provides a superior broadband experience to meet and exceed the needs of our customers.”

Cablevision, which tangles with Verizon FiOS, also offers cable modem tiers that provide downstream speeds of up to 50 Mbps, 75 Mbps, and 101 Mbps.

In January, the FCC raised the definition of broadband to 4 Mbps downstream/1Mbps  up, to 25/3.

Cablevision Systems Corp. has launched free wireless Internet access to its Optimum Online subscribers on the boardwalk in Long Beach, N.Y.

The Optimum WiFI deployment comprises nearly 60 newly installed hotspots along the 2.2‐mile oceanfront boardwalk, allowing Optimum Online customers to take their mobile devices with them and stay connected to fast, reliable WiFi.The Long Beach Boardwalk, which was rebuilt after experiencing severe damage during Superstorm Sandy, fully reopened late last year and is once again a major attraction for Long Beach residents as well as visitors from all over the tri‐state area.

With the deployment of WiFi on the boardwalk, there are now more than 350 Optimum WiFi hotspots available throughout the City of Long Beach.

“Cablevision and the City of Long Beach have enjoyed a great partnership for many years, and we are pleased to extend our WiFi coverage to one of the most beloved spots in the City, the Long Beach Boardwalk,” said Kevin Packingham, Cablevision executive vice president of product management. “Long Beach is a community that loves to be outside, and installing WiFi on the boardwalk is just another example of how we are committed to providing wireless internet access in the areas that matter most to residents. Now, customers can get even more out of their Optimum Online service by connecting to free, reliable WiFi just a few steps from the ocean.”

"The City of Long Beach has undergone a remarkable transformation as we continue to recover from the devastation of Superstorm Sandy," added Scott Mandel, city council president. "We thank Cablevision for investing in Long Beach by providing WiFi on our boardwalk and at other popular locations throughout the City. Long Beach truly comes alive during the summer, and we are excited for our residents and visitors to discover this increased connectivity as the beach season gets into full swing."