The most-anticipated video game of the decade is almost here — and Charter Communications has figured out a way to tap into that hype.
On Wednesday, the company said its Spectrum Internet will offer eligible customers a free speed boost tied to coincide with the release of Rockstar’s “Grand Theft Auto VI” and the Thanksgiving holiday period.
Spectrum said the promotion, called Gig Speed Lift is intended to help customers download “large video games” — basically, Grand Theft Auto VI, which is expected to be well over 200 Gigabytes (GBs) in size — and accommodate simultaneous internet usage across multiple household devices during the holidays.
Starting November 9, eligible Spectrum Internet customers will find an option in their accounts to activate the complementary speed boost, without any extra cost. Spectrum claims their Gig-speed Internet will allow them to download Grand Theft Auto VI in as little as 30 minutes, though actual download speeds and times will vary by customer.
Most platforms are releasing the game in waves one week before the official launch date, allowing customers to download and install — but not actually play — the game in order to prevent server-related issues. Pre-loads are expected to start November 10, with the game playable on November 19.
The promotion also extends through Thanksgiving, Black Friday and Cyber Monday, when households may experience increased demand for streaming, video calls and online shopping.
Eligible customers must activate the offer through the My Spectrum App. The promotion is available to qualifying residential subscribers with compatible equipment and no outstanding obligations to Spectrum. The speed increase will automatically expire November 30, returning customers to their original service tiers without changes to their monthly bills.
Charter offered a similar speed boost last year, tying the free perk to the Thanksgiving holiday period when family members and friends come together under one roof. If that household happens to be a Spectrum Internet customer, Charter said the speed boost allows more devices to connect to Wi-Fi at once, ensuring everyone can stay connected while traveling.
Spectrum provides internet service across 45 states, with gigabit speeds available throughout its service area and 2 Gbps service offered in select markets.
