Forum Discussion
Spain roaming
Andrew_239836 While I don't necessarily think that Smarty arrange for you to only get 3G, I wonder if the networks have a way of restricting your access to 4G in favour of their own customers when the network is busy.
I can well understand that local Spaniards would not be happy if they had rubbish service on the Costas during times when muchos ingleses were there.
Your thoughts are probably correct, MSF
I know that in the USA, the three Mobile Network Operators, namely ATT, T-Mobile, and Verizon, do what they call "de-prioritisation" of the MVNO's that piggyback on their networks at busy times., in favour of their own customers . Apparently, if you use an MVNO and attend a Baseball, Basketball, Hockey or American Football game, then there is a high probability that your phone will be about as useful as a doorstop for the duration of the game...US Mobile do offer what they call "premium data", which isnt de-prioritised, but of course, this attracts a premium price...
I have no doubt that "de-prioritisation" takes place in other countries, but its largely kept quiet....As you say, networks need to keep their native customers happy....
