Instead of trying to get competitive by offering a data plans, Cablevision is offering a an all-Wi-Fi mobile phone service. In order to keep costs down, this phone only operates on a Wi-Fi network. An ideal device to use with this plan is the second generation Moto G Freewheel, which is designed to run only on Wi-Fi. Rather than requiring you to constantly connect to a network, this phone is pre-programmed to connect to Optimum hotspots and Cable Wi-Fi. Cablevision has spent the past eight years building over a million hotspots for its Wi-Fi network, in order to provide expansive indoor and outdoor coverage.
The plan costs $10 for users on Cablevision's Internet service, or $30 without an existing Cablevision plan. What this gets you is unlimited calling, data and text messaging, without being locked into an annual contract.
Wi-Fi Phone Plans
Cablevision's Wi-Fi Mobile Phone is an Affordable Alternative to a Data Plan
Trend Themes
1. Wi-fi Phone Service - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Expanding the availability of affordable Wi-Fi only mobile phone plans.
2. All-wi-fi Devices - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Developing devices that operate solely on Wi-Fi networks, eliminating the need for expensive data plans.
3. Expansive Wi-fi Networks - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Building extensive networks of Wi-Fi hotspots to provide reliable and affordable connectivity for Wi-Fi only phone plans.
Industry Implications
1. Telecommunications - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Offering affordable alternatives to traditional data plans by leveraging Wi-Fi networks.
2. Mobile Device Manufacturing - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Designing and producing devices that are optimized for Wi-Fi connectivity, appealing to consumers looking for cost-effective alternatives.
3. Internet Service Providers - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Creating extensive Wi-Fi networks to enable the provision of Wi-Fi only phone plans, offering competitive alternatives to traditional mobile carriers.