The UK’s ability to capitalise on the roll-out of next-generation gigabit broadband is at risk because too few consumers are aware of the technology and its benefits, according to a new report from the Gigabit Take-up Advisory Group, led by Which?.
The roll-out of gigabit-capable broadband, with the fastest speeds and most reliable connections available, has been gaining pace. But while there has been a slew of adverts from broadband providers extolling the merits of their fastest services, a report by our Gigabit Take-up Advisory Group (GigaTAG) found that around six in 10 consumers weren’t actually aware of gigabit-capable broadband.
Access to a fast and reliable broadband connection has become a vital part of everyday life for consumers and businesses, and the roll-out of gigabit-capable broadband should ensure the UK’s infrastructure can continue to meet the demand for years to come. But low demand for these better services could hinder the government’s ambition for at least 85% of the UK to have access to gigabit-capable broadband by 2025.
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What is gigabit-capable broadband?
Gigabit broadband refers to connections with speeds of 1,000Mbps – also known as one gigabit per second (1Gbps). It’s the highest-speed broadband available and is around 15 times faster than the average broadband in the UK.
Gigabit connections can download a film in less than 10 seconds, but that isn’t where the advantages end – these high-speed connections also offer better reliability and can support a greater number of people using their connections at the same time.
Gigabit-capable broadband is becoming increasingly available in the UK – 37% of properties now have access. The UK government has pledged to provide at least 85% of the UK with full-fibre broadband by 2025 and has committed £5bn to help connect the hardest-to-reach parts of the UK.
Find out more about gigabit broadband – and how it compares with other types of fibre – in our guide to the benefits of fibre broadband.
Confusing terminology could affect demand
The report found that confusing terminology could be holding back consumers from fully appreciating the differences between types of broadband connection – and from signing up to a connection that would benefit them. The GigaTAG research found that four in 10 customers weren’t confident in understanding the terminology used by broadband providers.
Broadband marketing can certainly be confusing – it often focuses on ‘fibre’ but this encompasses a wide range of connections, some of which will only use fibre-optic cables, while others combine them with slower technology such as copper wires. Full-fibre networks offer gigabit-capable connections, but other types of technology can also be used to achieve gigabit speeds.
However, one study showed that it’s common for consumers to believe they are on a ‘full fibre’ connection, when this isn’t actually available where they live (full fibre is currently available in 21% of UK homes).
Different types of broadband
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A lack of understanding of the potential benefits of gigabit connections was also an issue for two in five consumers, with them saying they’re unclear as to how it differs from their current connection.
The GigaTAG report called on Ofcom and the broadband industry to work together to agree on clear terminology that will cut through advertising jargon, describing gigabit broadband and its benefits in straightforward terms. It also found that clearer labelling could help consumers understand what to expect from their service and encouraged Ofcom to look at this more closely.
Switching broadband provider could get you a cheaper, faster and more reliable connection. Read our guide on how to switch broadband provider for more.
What else is holding consumers back?
As well as a lack of understanding from consumers around the benefits of gigabit connections, GigaTAG found that affordability is an issue, particularly for low-income households. Around two in five of those in a low-income household cited this as an issue.
Consumers generally also indicated a low willingness to pay more for their connections, with only one in five willing to pay more for gigabit-capable broadband.
Rocio Concha, Which? director of policy and advocacy, and chair of the Gigabit Take-up Advisory Group, said:
‘Digital connectivity has never been more important, with the pandemic highlighting how dependent consumers are on a good broadband connection for daily activities, such as remote working, access to services and keeping in touch with family and friends.
‘Demand for faster, more reliable broadband services is crucial to the success of the roll-out of gigabit-capable broadband, and to ensure the benefits of these connections are realised. Better information about the benefits, measures to improve the language used to describe these services, along with possible targeted voucher and discount schemes, will help to address the barriers preventing consumers from benefiting from better connections.’
source https://www.which.co.uk/news/2021/06/measures-to-improve-information-and-cost-vital-for-uk-to-get-ahead-in-broadband-race/