Sprint eliminated video-streaming limitation, though states it will still ‘manage the network’
Connected with its recently launched “All-In” rate plans, Sprint this week also said it is removing its previous policy to limit video-streaming services to 600 kilobits per second, though it will still “manage the network” at times in order to mitigate congestion issues.
Sprint said the move was made to alleviate consumer “concerns” about the policy, which limited data speeds to around 3G capabilities even if a customer was connected to Sprint’s LTE-based network.
“At Sprint, we strive to provide customers a great experience when using our network,” said Sprint CEO Marcelo Claure, in a statement. “We heard you loud and clear, and we are removing the 600 kbps limitation on streaming video.”
However, Claure left some wiggle room in his statement to allow Sprint to manage network access should congestion be detected.
“During certain times, like other wireless carriers, we might have to manage the network in order to reduce congestion and provide a better customer experience for the majority of our customers,” Claure added.
Sprint’s prepaid brands Boost Mobile and Virgin Mobile USA continue to claim video-streaming limitations in their terms of service.
The move also follows up on plans announced last month in which Sprint told the Federal Communications Commission it would stop throttling data speeds for consumers on “unlimited” data plans inline with the adoption of the FCC’s net neutrality rules.
Sprint has been a long-time proponent of unlimited data services, with various executives touting the marketing benefits of the offer as well as the network’s ability to handle the load. However, Claure recently stated that the carrier would likely move to raise pricing for unlimited data access at some point this year.
Sprint had come out in favor of the FCC’s net neutrality actions, noting earlier this year “balanced net neutrality rules with a light regulatory touch will benefit consumers while fostering mobile broadband competition, investment and innovation in the United States.” Reports on the move came on the heels of the FCC announcing a $100 million fine against AT&T for throttling data speeds of its unlimited data customers.
Sprint earlier this week launched its All-In plans that looked to unify its “unlimited” service offering across the carrier’s smartphone lineup. The move sacrificed its “iPhone for Life” promotion that provided unlimited domestic voice calling, messaging and data for as low as $70 per month, to now pricing the service at $80 per month for all smartphones.
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