The ACMA has released a consumer awareness campaign showing quick tips on how to avoid overuse and bill shock when using a 4G/LTE network that delivers quicker Internet access and download speeds.
International research suggests that 4G/LTE users could use more data than they’re used to and may experience bill shock as a result. ACMA cited a recent report by Canadian mobile data provider Mobidia Technology and analyst firm Informa called “Understanding Today’s Smartphone Users” shows that LTE networks and devices are stimulating increased data usage, by up to 50% in some cases.
ACMA also mentioned research from mobile intelligence firm Validas conducted a recent study on 4G networks, which found the addition of LTE in a phone could easily double consumer’s usage.
A new ACMA telecommunications consumer protection code is now in place and introduces a range of reforms to better protect telco consumers. Customers will soon be able to more easily compare costs and plans, with telcos required to provide unit pricing for national calls, standard SMS and downloading 1MB of data in advertisements.
