Canada trying a la carte cable TV

Can you save money if you pay only for the TV channels you watch?

The question will be put to a real-world test that started Tuesday in Canada.

TV executives have long argued that the best value for your money comes through packages of hundreds of channels such that the cost of each is spread thin. Your monthly cable bill reflects that lower per-channel cost, even if you watch just a few channels.

And though you might gripe about paying for all the channels you never watch, the price of each channel could rise a lot if fewer people chose to pay for each one individually. The industry has also resisted offering full choice because overall subscription and advertising revenue could decline. Some channels might not survive.

Canada will start slowly. Providers only have to offer slimmed-down basic package for $25, with theme packs like sports or entertainment channels as extras. Full channel choice, or a la carte, is due in Canada by the end of the year.

This story was originally published March 2, 2016 at 6:30 AM with the headline "Canada trying a la carte cable TV."