The extent of consumer take up of new telecom services is highlighted in new research published today by Oftel.

The research shows that:

• 7.5 million homes now have Internet access with 2.3 million homes – nearly one third – using some form of unmetered access. The majority of Internet users are satisfied with their Internet service and the choices available to them in this market.

• 25 per cent of households with Internet access are considering installing high speed ADSL Internet access in the next 12 months. People are attracted to the high speed access it offers and the ability to make voice calls at the same time as using the Internet on one single fixed line.

• 1.25 million homes (five per cent) have a mobile phone instead of a fixed phone, as users seems to prefer the convenience and flexibility of mobile phone over a fixed line phone.

• One in four households have a digital television

• However, only one in three people were aware of alternative fixed line suppliers particularly indirect operators, who offer consumers telecoms services using the line already in their home.

Commenting on the research, David Edmonds Director General of Telecommunications said today:

"Demand for modern telecommunications services such as mobile phones and Internet access continues to grow. These dramatic changes illustrate the success of Oftel’s policy of promoting competition to increase the availability of choice and keener prices to consumers.

"Today’s household has a range of communications services – mobile phones, unmetered Internet access and a digital television – with high speed ADSL services becoming increasingly popular.

"Oftel’s goal to encourage competition and choice means UK consumers enjoy some of the cheapest prices in Europe for many today’s modern communications services.

However, a significant proportion of consumers aren’t aware of the full range of choices available to them. This reinforces the need for Oftel’s continued commitment to industry initiatives such as www.phonebills.org.uk which provide consumers with information about the suppliers in their area and the potential savings they could make"

Note to Editors

The consumer reports are available on Oftel’s website. The results are based upon a survey of 2,100 UK adults who were interviewed in November 2000.

Back to Press Release Index