Restrictions Lifted, Hourly Mobile Internet Packages Now Available1 min read

The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has withdrawn restrictions on the tenure of mobile internet packages, allowing operators to reintroduce hourly data packs stated in a report.

According to the latest directive, hourly packs can now be offered but will be capped at 200 MB. Similarly, daily packs have been limited to 3 GB, 2-day packs to 5 GB, and 3-day packs to 8 GB.

This marks a shift from the regulator’s October 2023 directive, which restricted data packages to durations of 7 days, 30 days, or unlimited. The move, criticized by both consumers and operators, led to a decline in mobile internet subscriptions—dropping from 14.22 crore in June to 13.72 crore in October.

Read more: Mobile Talktime and Internet Charges Set to Rise with New Tax Hikes

Acknowledging consumer preferences, BTRC had partially eased the restrictions in July, reintroducing 1-day, 3-day, 7-day, and 30-day packages, alongside unlimited options. This latest relaxation further expands choices, aiming to address diverse user needs.

Unused data will continue to expire unless users repurchase the same package before it lapses.

Welcoming the change, mobile operators expressed optimism about the flexibility it offers. The decision opens doors for delivering innovative and customer-centric services, enhancing the overall user experience by telecom companies.

He emphasized the importance of principle-based guidelines, suggesting they could boost digital inclusion and help bridge the digital divide.

To deepen internet penetration, the BTRC has encouraged operators to provide a free 200 MB data pack to all active users each month. Operators have lauded the regulator’s efforts to reduce complexities and create space for more innovative offerings.

This move is expected to revitalize mobile internet usage and bring more people online, narrowing the digital gap in Bangladesh.

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