21 November 2008
The BBC's plans to stream all its channels live over the internet could lead to higher broadband prices for consumers, it has been claimed.
From next week, BBC One and BBC Two will be available to watch online, joining the broadcaster's other channels such as BBC Three and Four, CBBC and BBC News.
However, Francesco Caio, an internet researcher tasked by the government with reviewing the UK's internet network, believes this could push up costs.
He said growth in livestream services will require greater investment from broadband providers to ensure networks can cope with increased traffic.
The cost of this could end up being passed on to consumers in the shape of higher bills.
"Broadband prices have been falling but I think we could get to the point where the need for investment means that prices of telephone and internet services will start heading north," he remarked.
Figures released by the analyst firm Point Topic show that there are now 400 million broadband subscribers across the globe.
© 2008 Adfero Ltd
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