Broadband is used to describe high speed access to the Internet using a variety of technologies. This will enable advanced services, such as the ability to watch and interact with video over the Internet. This is the technology of the future. Broadband is at an early stage of rollout, but BT's ADSL is going to be available to retail consumers from 1 July, and both ntl and Telewest already offer broadband services using Cable Modems. Oftel is actively pursuing both narrowband and broadband access by promoting competition.
Competition gives choice to consumers, and spurs innovation and lower prices.
Heavy regulation can reduce incentives to innovate and invest, but some regulation is needed to remove barriers when they arise. Oftel will act firmly if necessary. Unlike the rest of Europe, an offshoot of the incumbent does not dominate the highly competitive UK ISP market. Subscription free Internet access led to a rapid growth in the number of Internet users in the UK, and is likely to remain the best option for occasional or light users, and those who do not wish to commit to a contract. Packages are now on offer which offer consumers subscription free access at rates below the price of local-rate voice calls.