The government announced it will remove all broadband data caps to help combat isolation during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Self isolation and social distancing due to the current pandemic has created a strain on home broadband services. This is due to working from home being turned into the new normal overnight and replaced face-to-face meetings with video calls.
The government has therefore agreed new measures with all major internet service and mobile providers. All data allowance caps on current fixed broadband services will be removed, plus new mobile and landline packages with low cost data boosts and free calls will be introduced by the providers.
In a joint statement with the media regulator Ofcom and data providers, the government said this would “ensure people are connected and the most vulnerable continue to be supported.”
The providers that have agreed to the measures are: BT/EE, Openreach, Virgin Media, Sky, TalkTalk, O2, Vodafone, Three, Hyperoptic, Gigaclear, and KCOM.
Digital Secretary, Oliver Dowden said: “It’s fantastic to see mobile and broadband providers pulling together to do their bit for the national effort by helping customers, particularly the most vulnerable, who may be struggling with bills at this difficult time. It is essential that people stay at home to protect the NHS and save lives. This package helps people to stay connected whilst they stay home.”
Nick Jeffery, CEO of Vodafone UK added: “Whether you are at home, working from home or a key worker, Vodafone is committed to keeping the UK connected. We know that our technology is making a real difference in helping people through this health crisis.”