I'm not surprised that we pay more in the USA, lots more, for mobile phone services, as CNET's Maggie Reardon writes.
We also pay more for broadband services..and we get lots less.
Our bandwidth speeds are slower than other western countries and our wireless networks don't really achieve what's possible due largely to over saturation or lack of tower placement. What's more, our in the ground broadband is lagging to, using older technology.
As Ken Rutkowski of KenRadio notes, often when we record shows when I'm international, the quality seems better, and it is. Lower latency, less echo and a better experience, even at slower speeds. That's because most nations have built one network, which is where the giants in the USA are headed. I fully expect AT&T to be on board with a one network approach in the next few years, and to lobby the U.S. government to support that approach.
What we need though is not the core to be the only solid piece. All the pieces have to be, and for that to happen it means more local government involvement, including finally crossing the line and getting more towers erected in places that will enable better wireless coverage, and more "open" tower locations.
All that will bring the costs down, and mean better service.
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