17/10/2005

BT simplifies broadband packages

BT has announced a "deepening" of its relationship with Yahoo! on the introduction of a simplified range of four broadband packages and that trials of an 8Mbps service are to start.

BT said that each of the packages, which will come into effect from October 24, offer new and existing customers a premium Yahoo! broadband experience, enhanced security features and the option of cheap internet telephony.

Faced with some competitors capable of offering up to 24 Mbps connections, BT's trial next month will see the initial roll-out of a higher speed 8Mbps connection in what has been dubbed a "Max" service.

Describing the competition as "white hot" BT Group Managing Director, Consumer, Gavin Patterson, said: “We have raised our game again by giving all customers access to the fantastic award winning, premium Yahoo! broadband experience, which highlights the kind of unique content and superior security features which give customers peace of mind."

He added: “Following the announcement from BT Wholesale yesterday that they will be trialling speeds of 8 Mb, I can confirm that BT Retail will be joining these trials in November and we will be introducing speeds of up to 8Mb when available in Spring next year, in preparation for the launch of BT’s TV over broadband offering later in the summer.”

BT's cheapest retail broadband offering Option1 is £17.99 which will now provide access to Yahoo! broadband. BT Broadband Option 2, £22.99 a month, will additionally offer a wireless router from just £25, and enhanced security including PC anti-virus and firewall software for further protection. Options 3 and 4 will offer a wireless router for free along with other enhanced features.

Last month the BBC announced a pilot of a television and radio programme download service that would allow users to catch up with missed programmes for up to seven days following the original broadcast.

On Monday there was speculation that BSkyB was interested in acquiring broadband service provider Easynet, following an announcement by the satellite broadcaster on Friday that it was raising capital via a bonds issue for a buying spree.

BSkyB is understood to be looking at other means of content distribution.

(SP/KMcA)

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