Time is now offering its print readers new subscription plans that provide access to both printed and online content. Previously, the publisher had charged separately for hard copy, tablet and online versions. Under the new plan, access to all editions is $30 per year.
The company created the plan in an effort to address customer resistance to paying twice for the same content. It also unusually hopes to convert digital readers into new print customers.
In addition to the annual plan, Time is offering a pay-as-you-go $3 monthly plan for complete access. This is the same as it costs for the print edition monthly.
Time was already offering iPad owners, who already subscribed to the print edition, the opportunity to read the magazine digitally if they were willing to hand over their name, address and credit card number, and agree to a automatic renewal of their print subscription. The new deal, which also includes access to Time.com as well, does not require divulging such private information. Samsung Galaxy Tab and HP TouchPad tablet owners can also get this total access subscription.
This is the third cross-media plan to be offered by the publisher for its magazines. In February, it began offering such subscriptions for Sports Illustrated, and before that, People magazine
