Mobile Broadband Competition Benefits The Consumer

There are five big mobile broadband operators in the UK and a lot of potential customers. The mobile broadband industry has been growing rapidly over the last few years and as consumers become more savvy they expect more for their money. Initially mobile broadband dongles were aimed at the business market and the main benefits focused upon were portability and ease of use. Now that mobile broadband has become a mainstream choice price is much more of an issue. People are much more conscious of monthly costs during a recession and all outgoing must justify themselves.

It has been reported that Orange and Vodafone are both interested in buying T-Mobile. If either are successful the resulting company will be the largest in the industry. Getting new customers signed up is more important than ever for the main providers. As new customers who have previously been offline choose to connect with mobile broadband there is a rush to provide the most eye-catching deal to tempt them into a contract. There is lots of debate about what is the best mobile broadband deal but the best deal for one person may not be the best deal for everyone.

Some companies have been offering free laptops in exchange for a monthly connection fee. Others are offering short term contracts aimed at those not keen on committing to 12 or 18 months of payments. Pay as you go mobile broadband is a popular choice as well. Costs are coming down and monthly download allocations are going up. Coverage continues to improve although ‘notspots‘ are still present (or should that be not present?). As far as I can see the consumer is benefiting from the increased competition. Those of us already in a long term contract wont be feeling the benefit just yet but at least it’s on its way!