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In our local paper today (the Bradenton Herald-Tribune), there was an article from the NY Times by Brian Stelter, suggesting that Comcast, AT&T, and Time Warner Cable are intent on charging for bandwidth used. In fact, Time Warner has already started a program that is doing just that in Texas.
Here’s how it works:
For example, someone who downloads videos and/or music all the time uses more bandwidth than someone who just comes online to check email. The short-time user pays less than the all-day user.
Stelter says, “All three companies say that placing caps on broadband use will ensure fair access for all users.” What? Give me a break. Without the high bandwidth users, the Internet will be a very different place. We’ve just started getting into video as a viable source of content.
So, might this poppycock have something to do with the fact that people are just spending more time online communicating with people around the globe, gathering information and entertainment, and not watching as much cable TV? Egads! The sponsors don’t like that. Not at all.
Hmm…
If they start charging for bandwidth, think about it.
YouTube might become less cluttered, but think about how it will inhibit creativity. And you can’t tell me that email checkers never read the jokes in their email or follow links to funny videos because they do.
And, what about video bloggers or podcasters? And then, there’s iTunes? Wonder how Apple feels about all this. Does it mean there will be less to put on our iPods because we won’t be able to afford the connection? Blockbuster will still deliver, but not as much and at higher expense to meet the cost.
Oh, and let’s not forget Grandma who likes to Skype with her family and see her grandkids in another state. It will cost you more, Granny, winnowing down that already skinny Social Security income you can’t even live on.
Charging for those of us who use more bandwidth will definitely smote online commerce. Video is a primary source of information product dissemination these days. And what about those videos that go with eBay products? Even if you’re just an email checker, it will mean higher prices for you because there will be higher prices for us.
You will end up paying more for every online activity you do. Your bank will have to pay more, so bye-bye free online banking, right? Think about it. And gamers? Go back to TV and the PS2 because you’ll have to get a job to pay for your connection.
So, the big companies are positioning it that there needs to be equality for all users, like light usage or water usage. It should cost the “bandwidth hogs” more.
Feh…
Don’t tell us that you’re going to squeeze us “big users,” and neglect to tell everyone that even if they just check email, they’ll be paying more, too–in the long run. My back is wet here, guys, and it’s a perfect sunny day outside, if you know what I mean.
To me, what it boils down to for Comcast, AT&T, and Time Warner is nothing more than a bigger bottom line and sponsor security.
I can tell you three services that I want NOTHING to do with. I suggest you let your voices be heard, too. Vote with your feet.
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