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AT&T's Data Caps

12:15 PM Why applaud AT&T's mobile data caps? Most people will pay less for data, and video services on specialized networks might catch on
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kaps
User Ranking
Thursday June 3, 2010 1:48:16 AM
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My simple question -- does everyone trust that AT&T is giving them an honest measurement of data usage? Why not allow a third party independent meter app to provide true transparency?

When it was just minutes it was easy for folks to figure out if they'd been talking a lot or not. With data, not so easy since server settings, app settings, etc., can complicate the actual measurements.

I agree with the Philter in that you should have to pay for what you use. Makes complete sense. But you also have to be assured you are getting what you paid for. My guess is that measurement tools might become awfully important going forward.

sburpeeduncan
User Ranking
Wednesday June 2, 2010 7:18:55 PM
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Sure. If data's unlimited, who cares? But now that 3G has caps but Wi-Fi doesn't don't you think people will be more aware of which one they're using?
mendyk
User Ranking
Wednesday June 2, 2010 7:14:35 PM
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Can WiFi usage meters at Starbucks be far behind? Megabit pricing, latte pricing. One way or another, we must pay a price for our YouTube sins.

Phil Harvey
User Ranking
Wednesday June 2, 2010 6:46:59 PM
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Thanks.

I think most folks take WiFi for granted and may not even be aware of how much they consume on their iPhones/iPads during the day while WiFi connected vs. while on a 3G network. They might be surprised how little mobile data they're actually using.

sburpeeduncan
User Ranking
Wednesday June 2, 2010 6:30:38 PM
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Nice, balanced perspective, thanks.  Sounds like this may result in higher Wi-Fi usage, too. 

Gabriel Brown
User Ranking
Wednesday June 2, 2010 12:22:16 PM
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Good video. Another point: reducing the entry price for mobile data brings more people into the market who over time will become heavier users, pay more, etc.

 

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