StarHub, SingTel and M1 refuse to reveal surfing speed

dragg · 28 Dec 10, 10:14

Reveal average surf speed? ISPs say no
They object to Govt's proposal, arguing many factors affect Net speeds
By Jessica Lim

THE three major Internet service providers (ISPs) here have objected to the Government's proposal to get them to disclose average surfing speeds to market their broadband.

StarHub, SingTel and M1 currently market their plans based on their rarely achievable maximum speeds.

In response to the Government's proposal, all three argue that multiple factors affect Internet speeds, making it impossible for them to define an average speed. Any attempts to do so would be inaccurate and misleading, they say.

The proposal came in a consultation paper published last month, which invited public feedback.

In it, the Infocomm Development Authority (IDA) said ISPs here have historically sold their fixed and mobile broadband plans by advertising their top speeds, which are not usually achievable under normal Internet conditions.

By 5pm yesterday, the deadline for submissions, the technology sector regulator had attracted 18 views.

The bulk of respondents were ISPs including the three major players, but there was also a smattering of Internet companies such as Google, ESPN Star Sports, and Skype, as well as two individuals.

In a 20-page statement, SingTel pointed out that average Internet speeds experienced by users vary depending on how many are using the network at any given time. Speeds are also dependent on radio signal quality which can be affected by external interference, it said.

M1 aired similar views. In its response, it said it strongly objects to the proposal for ISPs to state average Internet access speeds as 'there is basically no sound, objective and equitable basis to do so considering the many variables involved'.

It said computer processing speed and power supply would also affect Internet connection, as would the type of operating system used. Instead, it urged the IDA to improve public education on broadband Internet services.

In its response, StarHub said 'requiring operators to disclose expected average Internet access speeds would serve to create even more confusion and disputes with end-users'.

However, players such as Skype applauded the IDA's move to 'improve transparency', provided the information disclosed would help users make an informed choice.

They also agreed with the other point the IDA raised in its consultation paper - that ISPs should not unilaterally block legitimate online content or services. Rules against this are already in place.

For example, an ISP cannot limit the bandwidth for Skype telephone calls to avoid losing out on fixed-line revenues.

The telcos say they agree with the IDA's current policy on this matter.

Mr Foong King Yew, research director with technology research firm Gartner, agreed that there are many factors affecting Internet speeds. However, he said ISPs can do more.

'The companies should still be able to come up with a better gauge of Internet speeds. Providing the maximum speed is vague and it does not give any indication of what paying customers can expect.'

He added that it was predictable that ISPs would be against the proposals because they make it 'easier for consumers to make comparisons'.

The IDA said the responses have generally been positive. It added that it will review the feedback and decide whether its current position is appropriate, and if regulations need to be enhanced or relaxed.

Individuals who submitted feedback, including a Mr Khong Heng Poh, support the average surfing speeds proposal. 'If ISPs are indeed providing the actual speeds as advertised, why not disclose them?' he asked. 'What's there to hide?'

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