Computerworld

Bigpipe App lets users give broadband video top priority

Bigpipe says the app is particularly useful for internet connections serving multiple functions simultaneously

Spark’s ISP, Bigpipe, has introduced a smartphone app for Android and iOS that allows customers to assign different priorities to traffic types on their Bigpipe fixed broadband service.

For example if a user wants to watch streaming video the app’s ‘Mode Selector’ will enable them to give top priority to video traffic, which could result in better quality and less buffering. Users can choose between streaming, browsing, downloading, communication, and gaming modes. Bigpipe says up to 90 percent of available bandwidth can be dedicated to a single stream.

Bigpipe says the app is particularly useful for internet connections serving multiple functions simultaneously — for example a connection shared between family members, or tenants in shared accommodation — and on services delivered over copper, which make up over half of Bigpipe’s customers.

Bigpipe is promoting the app as offering customers a choice in how they use their internet connections, rather than having their ISP decide for them. Bigpipe head, Oliver Smith, said: “Many ISPs throttle or shape traffic to give what they think is a better experience, but why should the ISP get to choose what people get to do on their internet connections? What we’re offering is a way for customers to decide what sort of traffic is important to them on their own connection, and prioritise accordingly.”

The Bigpipe App also offers push notifications to alert users of planned maintenance or unplanned outages. Other features include the ability to check billing status, refer friends to Bigpipe and get help and support. Bigpipe says more features are planned and their development will be prioritised based on user feedback.

The Bigpipe app is available for download in the Apple Store and the Google Play Store.