And so it begins.. Vodafone throttling 3G customers

And so it begins.. Vodafone throttling 3G customers

It’s safe to say that 4G hasn’t exactly set the world alight here in the UK. Although there’s obvious benefits, the lack of coverage, relatively low data limits and pricing has meant that most have chosen to stay on 3G.

Why?

Well, 3G is cheaper, and most people are happy with the speed and the generous data allowances.

However, we’ve received word that Vodafone are throttling speeds for 3G customers. The download / upload speeds will be restricted for those not using a “4G Ready” or “4G” Plan. If you’re in that category then..

(a) Your upload speed will be limited to 8Mbps
(b) Your download speed will be limited to 10Mbps

Now, although this still isn’t “slow” (and, if you do get the full 10Mbps, is faster than a lot of home broadband lines), it’s a worrying sign of things to come. I personally believe that this will mark the start of networks offering a two-tier level of service as a way to push people on their shiny new 4G networks.

We’ve contacted Vodafone for comment and will update this item as soon as we hear back. 

Update – Since receiving these details from an anonymous tipster we’ve found this reference to it in newly-published terms and conditions. Mobile broadband / dongles will be capped at 10Mbps too.

If you do not have a “4G-ready” or “4G” plan, your data speed will be limited to 10Mbps.

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