Just because there are a number of quality news sources now that are available for free. It doesn't mean this will always be the case.

Print is currently subsidizing the online stuff. Revenues are constantly decreasing.

There will come a point where the number of quality sites will be so infrequent that a quality site will be worth paying for.

As soon as someone can come up with a workable micropayment system, everyone will jump on board.

This looks like another opportunity for Steve Jobs....

you didn't pay $199 for the iphone... you paid $199 + 24*$69 = $1855 ( you now, the monthly fees )

The new price is $99 + 24*$69 = $1755 or a 6.5% price drop. ( Assuming AT&T's pricing doesn't change )

www.mcmaster.com