Telecommunication service provider HKT (6823) yesterday launched a new multi-use broadband service for residential users, with group managing director Alex Arena saying the service will meet current and future needs of internet users.
The service, which is known as 4x1000M multi-use broadband, allows residential users to connect up to four different individual circuits and obtain dedicated internet downstream bandwidth of up to 1 gigabyte per second for each circuit.
"The new multi-use service allows segregated use of the circuits to ensure high-level service quality with guaranteed speed as well as enhanced security to protect customers from threats of malwares," Arena said.
He noted that the multi-use broadband service was already part of what HKT does for business users, and now the company is taking it into people's homes.
"Homes are getting really 'smart' nowadays," he observed, "and they need smart and secure networks. If you are buying content we want to help you to enjoy."
The minimum monthly fee for the 4x1000M multi-use broadband service is HK$458 a month.
For two circuits - the 2x1000M multi-use broadband service - there will be a minimum charge of HK$168 a month during a promotional period. As HKT points out, the four circuits can be optimized for home office, entertainment, gaming and smart home uses.
"Many people working from home do not want entertainment to mess with their home office work," Arena said.
He expects the new service will be well received as the need for internet data usage is growing constantly.
Research by HKT shows the average monthly data usage per line increased 36 percent during 2016 to 238 gigabytes.
Asked if he is concerned about competitors replicating the new service, Arena said that would be difficult for another firm as there is a development cycle required as well as significant capital investment.
He added that Hong Kong's telecom market is very competitive, but he believes that is good for overall development.
Arena also said the electronics sports and gaming market is important and the company is well prepared to meet expected demands.
Source: http://www.thestandard.com.hk/section-news.php?id=184835