Take up of mobile broadband could affect NBN
A recent report has indicated that amongst the threats that could face the National Broadband Network in Australia was the fact that a rising number of people were ditching their fixed line services and moving over to mobile broadband.
With mobile broadband technology having come a long way over recent years a rising number of people in Australia have realised the benefits that these services can offer. With mobile broadband consumers are able to get online whilst out and about, making it ideal for those that are on the move such as business users or those that always want to stay connected. However, it is also a good choice for those that are unable to get adequate access to fixed line broadband as well as those that are looking for something to complement or even replace their fixed line service.
One recent report has suggested that the take up of mobile broadband services has been increased as a result of the availability of things such as data cards and impressive smart phones, and it is thought that as 4G or LTE broadband technology comes in the popularity of mobile broadband services will soar even further.
This increased take up of mobile broadband could create a problem for the National Broadband Network, as it could mean that as it is rolled out people will be quickly losing – or already have lost – interest because of the availability and increased reliability of mobile broadband services. The report claims that Telstra has already experienced issues as a result of an estimated eight percent of households said to have now ditched their fixed line broadband in favour of solely using mobile broadband services. This could increase to around fifteen percent within five years.
The data is backed up by a statement made last year by Vodafone, with officials from the mobile network stating: “The recent and substantial growth in mobile broadband take-up has already increased demand for backhaul transmission and its importance will grow exponentially as technology advances.”
Source – SMH
