BT has unveiled what it claims is the first Wi-Fi coverage guarantee, pledging to either eliminate blackspots in its customers’ homes or give them compensation.
The ISP has introduced a new version of its Smart Hub router and modem which can be paired with a matching ‘disc’ that extends the Wi-Fi network around the home, even in traditionally hard to reach rooms and areas.
The ‘Complete Wi-Fi’ package is available as part of BT’s recently unveiled ‘Plus’ service which is focussed on the growing need for reliable broadband in an age where so many services are reliant on a web connection.
Research carried out by BT revealed more than half (52%) of families would be “put off living in, or buying, a house with Wi-Fi black spots,” while 43% of those polled by the ISP said poor connectivity restricts their home life.
Asked what impact more reliable Wi-Fi would have on their lives, one fifth said they’d set up a home office, one in five would create a games room and 28% would create a study for their kids.
Existing Plus customers can add Complete Wi-Fi to their package for an extra £5 per month, while new customers and those upgrading to BT Plus can choose from a range of packages starting from £59.99 per month.
For that they’ll receive a Smart Hub 2 and one Wi-Fi Disc, which they can determine the best location for via a smartphone app.
Help is also on hand from BT’s staff who, via a video call, can assist them in finding the right spot and assist with any other set-up queries they have.
If the default combination fails to eliminate coverage blackspots BT will send out up to two more discs free of charge. Should any room still not enjoy coverage, customers will receive £20.
Unlike similar products which create a separate network complete with its own name, BT’s system provides a single wireless experience around the home.
BT describes the new Hub, which 2 boasts 7 dual band Wi-Fi antennas with a further 4 antennas in each Disc, as “the most advanced router available from a broadband provider” and claims a four-bedroom house could see average speeds boosted by up to 25% by switching to Complete Wi-Fi.
Marc Allera, CEO of BT’s Consumer business said: “Strong, reliable Wi-Fi has never been so important in the home, with families using even more connected devices and wanting to make the most of every room in the home.
“We’re the first broadband provider in the world to launch a Complete Wi-Fi guarantee so customers can get online from every corner of their homes.
“Whether it’s converting the attic into an online gaming room for the kids or making a spare room into a home gym where you can stream music or work out videos, our unique Complete Wi-Fi opens up a world of possibilities for our customers.”
