Internet to Have Extra-Cost Fast Lane

NEW YORK — As more Internet users seek out large-packet content like movies and games on the Internet, some telecom providers have begun to recognize that bandwidth-hungry media may need its own delivery system. But you’re going to have to pay for it.

Bell South and AT&T announced Tuesday plans to offer an Internet fast lane, setting aside a segment of DSL broadband lines that would guarantee fluid delivery of movies, games and other broadband content. Neither company has said how much it plans to charge for the service.

The idea behind a “two-tiered” Internet has been batted about by telephone and cable company lobbyists since December, much to the chagrin of many large content properties like Google, Yahoo and MSN. On one hand, the telephone and cable companies argue they have the right to make certain websites function better than others because they laid the cable for the users’ link to cyberspace. On the other hand, existing content providers say the move would destroy equal opportunity on the Internet, forcing companies to pay the extra fee if they want their broadband content to be competitive.

“They’re looking to create a two-tiered system,” telecom analyst Jenn Freedman told XBiz. “Think of it like the difference between basic and premium cable packages, only on a much larger scale.”

Bell South and AT&T have argued the move is a means to earn back the billions spent setting up broadband services — as well as manage the burgeoning growth of video-on-demand — and that the system would keep prices lower for the average consumer.

But Google's policy counsel, Alan Davidson, said the end result would give them too much control.

“Our concern is that carriers are being given the power to control what consumers do and see online,” he said.

Google can afford the premium fees, Davidson added, but many cannot, meaning innovative new companies might be seriously constrained.

The two-tiered debate is expected to kick off in Washington at a Senate Commerce Committee hearing today.

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

XBIZ Miami's Host Hotel Sold Out, General Registration Now Open

Guest rooms at XBIZ Miami’s exclusive conference venue, Nautilus Sonesta Miami Beach hotel in South Beach, are now completely sold out.

Adult Industry Educational, Networking Platform 'Imperfectly You' Launches

Imperfectly You, an educational and networking platform for adult industry workers, has officially launched.

Segpay to Launch News Network for High-Risk Merchants

Segpay has announced that it will launch the Segpay News Network (SNN) on April 15.

Age Verification Watch: Patching the Holes

This roundup provides an update on the latest news and developments on the age verification front as it impacts the adult industry.

Pineapple Support to Host Autism Spectrum Support Group

Pineapple Support is hosting a free online support group for performers and creators who are, or suspect they may be, on the autism spectrum.

ImLive Launches Revamped Member Loyalty Program

Cam platform ImLive has revamped its member loyalty program.

GoFundMe Set Up for Danny Ferretti's Medical Expenses

A GoFundMe campaign has been set up for Fangear founder Danny Ferretti, who requires extensive lung surgery.

Byborg Acquires Cuties AI

Byborg Enterprises has acquired adult artificial intelligence startup Cuties AI.

Irish Government Releases Report on Sex Work Decriminalization Legislation

The Irish government has released a report reviewing a 2017 law that decriminalized sex work across the country.

Texas Bill Would Require Age Verification for Online Sex Toy Sales

A new bill in the Texas state legislature would require online retailers to implement age verification of purchasers before selling “obscene devices” to anyone in that state.

Show More