Canadian Internet service providers recently made the blunder of implementing UBB (Usage-Based Billing) which involves charging their customers usage fees for going over their recently lowered bandwidth/data caps. However, charitable organizations like the newly formed 'Canadian Download' site are fighting back.
The website is run by two Americans who are out of the reach of the absurd Candian ISP bandwidth limits/charges, and it encourage Canadians to post links to what they would like to download, and their home address on the Canadian Download website. Once done, the site sends a disc or hard drive containing the information to the applicant (which, with the new UBB system of Canadian ISP’s, can actually work out to be cheaper and faster than downloading).
As of yet, the site has received over 130,000 visitors in little over 12 hours and runs entirely on donations and corporate sponsors.
UBB Subversion Sites
'Canadian Download' Website Fights Back Against Usage-Based Billing
Trend Themes
1. Opposition to Usage-based Billing - The 'Canadian Download' website represents a growing trend of opposition to usage-based billing by offering an alternative method of accessing content.
2. Community-driven Content Sharing - The success of the 'Canadian Download' site showcases the trend of community-driven content sharing platforms where users can request and share links to desired downloads.
3. Alternative Distribution Channels - The popularity of the 'Canadian Download' site highlights the trend of alternative distribution channels as users seek ways to bypass ISP restrictions and fees.
Industry Implications
1. Internet Service Providers - The opposition to usage-based billing presents an opportunity for ISPs to explore new pricing models and service packages that align with customer demands.
2. Digital Content Providers - The rise of community-driven content sharing platforms signals an opportunity for digital content providers to engage with users and offer more accessible distribution channels.
3. Data Storage and Delivery - The growth of alternative distribution channels, such as physical disc or hard drive delivery, creates disruptive innovation opportunities for data storage and delivery companies to provide cost-effective and faster solutions.