Notes

Cheap Data and 5G May Compete with NBN

The NBN could be challenged by data rates that are lower and the introduction of 5G technology.



According to the ACCC's annual Communications Market Report, mobile prices dropped 17 percent in 2019-20 due to a drop of entry-level plans, as well as substantial increases in data allowances.



The consumer watchdog noted an albeit modest drop of 2 percent in NBN broadband prices with an increase in the price of entry-level plans stifling the drop.



"The increase in data allowances for mobile service means that customers gained more value for their mobile plans," chair Rod Sims said.



"Whether this trend persists into 2021 will depend on how hard mobile operators compete for new customers."



The ACCC found that 5G has still a tiny area and that operators are investing in rollout plans in order to bring faster speeds, lower latency, and more competition to fixed-line broadband services.



"The impact in the mobile market is likely to depend on the ability of both businesses and consumers to upgrade to higher-end devices," Mr Simms said.



According to a website that compares the two, 5G speeds for home internet range between around 50Mbps and 300Mbps.



Optus offers a monthly fee of $75. plan with a 100Mbps limit, which WhistleOut claims is less expensive than most NBN 100 Mbps plans.



You can also opt for an $90 plan that includes unlimited data and unlimited speed.



Telstra charges $85 per month for a 500GB package, currently on an invitation-only basis.



"From my viewpoint, 5G is far more exciting as an NBN alternative than it is currently for mobile devices," WhistleOut Managing Editor Alex Choros said.



"Given the speed that you can attain at prices similar to NBN 50 or NBN 100 plans it will be a compelling choice for a lot of Australians, particularly those who are struggling with Fibre to the Node connections and Fixed Wireless speeds, it is a viable option for those who are struggling with these.



"As the rollout of 5G continues it's likely that NBN Co and NBN providers will need to factor this into the way plans are priced."



In September NBN Co announced it had completed its initial construction and the ACCC said this underlined the importance of commercial access arrangements to encourage competition in retail markets.



"There are encouraging indications of a further benefit for consumers as RSPs (retail service providers) take up improved offers as a result of commercial negotiations conducted over the course of our public inquiries," Mr Sims said.
RUNESCAPE WIKI


"The importance of maximising the use of the NBN by ensuring access to affordable prices and a strong retail competition cannot be overstated if you are to fully reap the economic and social benefits of this significant investment.


Here's my website: https://rswiki.net/