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Do subscribers of mobile networks care about Data Throttling?

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  • Bauner, Christoph
  • Espin, Augusto

Abstract

Network neutrality mandates have been made out either as necessary to ensure a level playing field in online markets or, alternatively, as overly restrictive regulation preventing innovation and investment. However, there is little empirical research on the consequences of data throttling, which becomes legal without network neutrality regulations. We combine throughput levels measured for mobile ISPs in the United States with usage data to explore how sensitive users are to such practices. We find no evidence that users change their behavior when faced with throttled data rates.

Suggested Citation

  • Bauner, Christoph & Espin, Augusto, 2023. "Do subscribers of mobile networks care about Data Throttling?," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 47(10).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:telpol:v:47:y:2023:i:10:s0308596123001763
    DOI: 10.1016/j.telpol.2023.102665
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Data throttling; Network neutrality; Internet; Upstream effects;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D12 - Microeconomics - - Household Behavior - - - Consumer Economics: Empirical Analysis
    • L50 - Industrial Organization - - Regulation and Industrial Policy - - - General
    • L86 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Services - - - Information and Internet Services; Computer Software

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