Netgsm, which provides services as Turkey’s fourth mobile operator, has been on the agenda lately with both the access problem for its new subscribers and price increases. As of November 5, 2024, users who subscribe to Netgsm are experiencing serious restrictions in their access to base stations. These blocks, which occur despite the decision taken by the Information Technologies and Communications Authority (BTK), affect users’ freedom to receive services. On the other hand, Netgsm’s 68% increase in tariffs due to cost increases causes concern and reaction among subscribers.
Netgsm’s new subscribers face obstacles in accessing base stations by the mobile operator from which they receive service. Netgsm officials demand the implementation of BTK’s decision, arguing that this situation violates the right to communication guaranteed by the Constitution. BTK’s decision to protect the right to communication and access aims to encourage competition, especially in mobile access networks. However, according to Netgsm, despite this decision, new subscribers’ connection access is blocked and the goal of providing uninterrupted communication is disrupted.
Reasons for price increases and new tariffs
Another development affecting Netgsm users is the 68% increase in subscription tariffs. According to the statement made by Netgsm officials, the approximately tripling of wholesale data (GB) fees received within the scope of Virtual Mobile Network Service in November has greatly increased the company’s costs. In the face of these increasing costs, Netgsm stated that it aims to achieve financial balance by updating its tariffs. Nevertheless, the company announced that it made an increase well below the determined rate in order to reflect this cost increase to the users at a minimum level.
Some of Netgsm’s new tariffs are as follows:
- 1 GB Internet + 100 MIN + 50 SMS: 43 TL/month
- 2 GB Internet + 500 MIN + 50 SMS: 87 TL/month
- 4 GB Internet + 750 MIN + 100 SMS: 134 TL/month
- 10 GB Internet + 1500 MIN + 100 SMS: 211 TL/month
- 20 GB Internet + 2000 MIN + 100 SMS: 383 TL/month
Monthly Radio Usage Fee Tax (14.94 TL) valid for 2024 is added to all prices stated. Additionally, users can easily subscribe via e-Government or digital platforms. While this increase rate reflects the average of all packages, there may be different price increases in some tariffs.
While the developments create disappointment among Netgsm subscribers, they also raise important questions about the future of competition in the field of digital communication. On the other hand, price increases also cause budget concerns among users. In this process, Netgsm is waiting for a solution to prevent both its existing customers and new subscribers from being victimized. Stating that BTK’s decision should be implemented and steps should be taken regarding costs, the company continues its demands for the protection of the right to communication while expecting understanding from its customers.