As wireless data usage increases, T-Mobile has seemingly come up with a clever solution to satiate customers without saturating their network. “Binge On” will enable unlimited video streaming, from select providers like Netflix and WatchESPN, that doesn’t count against one’s cap. T-Mobile marketing states they’ve “optimized” the video … which some are reporting as 480p. On the go, on a small screen, that may be sufficient for most. I’d probably make that trade at the gym for treadmill Netflix, given the facility’s WiFi struggles and the potential to burn through my Verizon bucket.
From Fierce Wireless:
The reality is that Binge On will be imposed on all of T-Mobile’s customers starting Sunday, including the ones who have signed up for its unlimited data plans. Customers who don’t want the service will have to opt out of it. Yes, Binge On gives T-Mobile’s customers free streaming video, but it also reduces the resources T-Mobile needs to employ to deliver that video. It’s a smart move, but it’s not as altruistic as Legere might imply.
Of course, there are two sides to every coin. And some will object to reduced video quality. Assuming they even know T-Mobile took the liberty of making that change on their behalf. Further, “zero rating” is something of a net neutrality issue.
From The Verge:
Binge On is bad because it gives T-Mobile too much power. It’s really that simple. And yes, it’s bad for net neutrality. If net neutrality has a core idea, it’s that regular people ought to be in charge of the internet — especially since the internet is mostly just people. That means companies like T-Mobile shouldn’t be picking winners and losers, even if customers appear to be winning in the short term.
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"Further, “zero rating” is something of a net neutrality issue."
A bit of an understatement...
I'd have no issue with zero rating popular services that help augment the provider's finances, as long as they were open about the relationship, and keeping non-partner data usage reasonably priced. Unfortunately, corporate America doesn't see the value in doing things in a fair and just way a lot of times, and chooses instead to push their agendas without regard to those of their customers. I would love to have Netflix streaming at no cost to my plan's data, but also want to be sure I'm not backed into a corner where I can only use "their" partners, or risk having a gargantuan monthly bill. I like to stream Netflix and Amazon, but also like to house and stream my own media on occasion.
Not sure if they still do it, but at one time Verizon offered zero rating streaming of NFL games and content from your mobile device through their NFL Mobile app.
In this case, I think the net neutrality issue is a little bit of a crock. Is there any air left in this space with Netflix, Amazon, Hulu, and Youtube? No, there is not. There will not be another video service come out like them so T-mobile's move just allow most of the people to watch what they want.