After SBC slashed the price of its high-speed internet service last month, its phone and cable competitors have begun to introduce promotions that include significantly lower rates, the Wall Street Journal reports (via paidcontent). Although many of the latest deals are targeted at specific markets, together they provide lower-priced access to a large group of internet users.

Comcast is now offering broadband service for $14.95 a month for three months in the Bay Area, down from its normal rate of $42.95. In San Diego, Cox Communications has started offering high-speed service for $24.95 a month for three months; the previous price was $39.95. Verizon has dropped its broadband prices to $19.95 a month - $10 off - for three months for new customers in much of the Northeast.