I want to get Foxtel Xbox and need minimum 2mbs download speed.
Can only get mobile, no adsl etc. Sad I know. Martyn.
16/08/2011
Hi Martyn,
Unfortunately, Foxtel for Xbox is not suitable for mobile broadband. Speeds on mobile broadband fluctuate depending on the time of the day and signal strength in your area, so no provider could guarantee you a speed of 2Mbps (except possibly for Telstra, although this would be an expensive option).
The speed is not the only problem. Streaming TV shows uses up a lot of data and you would need a big plan to cope.
According to Foxtel, an hour of high-quality TV uses up 800MB of data, medium quality would use 540MB and low-quality 360MB. Foxtel will allow customers to change the quality setting on the console, in order to save on data.
Using the highest quality setting, two hours of TV a night would require 50GB a month. Even on the lowest setting, you would need at least 23GB a month.
For Xbox users who want to use Foxtel's service, we usually recommend a large plan such as TPG's Unlimited ADSL2+ bundle for $29.99 (when bundled with a $30 home phone line) or iiNet's 400GB plan for $69.95 a month. I'm not sure why you can't get ADSL, but you can call us on 1300 106 571 to double-check whether TPG is available, and 1300 106 571 for iiNet plans.
If mobile broadband is your only option, I would recommend choosing a heavy user plan to make the most of your service.
SpinTel offers a 18GB plan for $69.95 a month, which would give you around 22 and a half hours of high-quality TV a month. However, if you exceed your limit, SpinTel charges fees of $0.14 per MB, which could result in a very expensive TV show for you ($114!). Provided you keep an eye on your data use, this plan is great value for money. Call SpinTel on 1300 381 277.
On a slightly smaller plan, Optus offers 16GB for $59.95 a month on a special offer (normally $79.95 a month, offer valid as of 17/8/11). Optus will suspend your account if you exceed your limit, so you won't have to worry about high bills if you accidentally go over the cap. Call Optus on 1300 137 897 for more details and to find out if coverage is good in your area.
Hope this helps,
Sarah
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