Internet service provider EarthLink is raising prices. EarthLink CEO Garry Betty and President Mike McQuary have sent an e-mail to subscribers to announce a monthly price increase for the company’s basic, unlimited dial-up service. EarthLink plans to charge US$2 more beginning July 2 for new subscribers and August 1 for most of EarthLink’s existing customer base. Up until now, EarthLink’s basic service has cost $19.95.
To offset the price increase, the company indicates that additional features have been added. The basic dial-up service has, up until now, consisted of only one e-mail address. EarthLink said that subscribers will now have a total of eight e-mail addresses tied to each account. Users will also gain Web space for their own personal Web pages — “at least 10MB,” according to EarthLink.
Betty and McQuary said that there’s another option for users who want to maintain the lower price for as long as possible. EarthLink offers a one-year, prepay option that will lock in the $19.95 for the next twelve months — users looking to utilize that option are encouraged to call 800.890.6356.
EarthLink’s move follows a similar move announced in May by America Online. AOL said that beginning in July, the cost of its Unlimited Use plan would increase $1.95 per month to $23.90.