Its all about how they want to run the business. Not a single company is going to be right for everyone. I agree, some customers would be happy with that, but would Dish? It works for Charter, would it work for Dish? I think once people find what interests them, and what they are willing to pay, that is who they should go with. There is no "Right or Wrong" provider, just different options for different people, in different areas.
Agreed.. Just to be clear though, you can use a TiVo with FiOS or any cable company and pay your equipment fees up front. It's not just Charter. I just mentioned them because they are my local cable company.