BT has debuted Halo 3+, a broadband service which uses EE’s widespread mobile network as a backup for increased reliability.
Halo 3+ introduces a new device called Hybrid Connect which works straight out the box to quickly give confidence to customers that they’ll remain connected even in the event of an issue with their fibre connection.
For new BT customers, or those who’ve just moved into a new house, Halo 3+ also means users can get online while they wait for their broadband to be activated.
Christian Thrane, Managing Director of Marketing for BT Consumer, said:
“With BT Halo 3+, we’re launching an innovative new category of home broadband that’s truly a first of its kind in the UK.
We are combining the best fibre home broadband and WiFi technology, backed up with our award-winning EE mobile network, to become the only UK provider that offers customers an unbreakable WiFi connection in the home.
BT Halo 3+ offers a super reliable service with the best connectivity for all corners of the home, giving the whole family peace of mind they can work, home school or keep in touch with friends and family without interruptions.”
BT acquired EE for £12.5 billion in 2016. The deal – which combined the UK’s largest broadband player and mobile network – came under fierce scrutiny from both British and European competition regulators, but was ultimately cleared to proceed.
In the years since the acquisition, BT has increasingly used EE as a key differentiator from the competition by offering multi-play bundles of broadband, mobile, and TV. The debut of Halo 3+ is the latest piece of BT’s convergence strategy.
Matthew Howett, Principal Analyst and Founder of Assembly Research, commented:
“The past 12 months have reminded us all of the importance of fast, and crucially, reliable broadband as we’ve taken to work, educate and entertain ourselves at home.
In its truest sense, convergence is about the coming together of fixed and mobile networks in a seamless way for the consumer.
The Hybrid Connect device is a great first step in the delivery of that vision, and works to reinforce the always-on promise, at a time when households need uninterrupted connectivity more than ever.”
Customers who take up Halo 3+ will get full-fibre, Hybrid Connect, Smart Hub 2, ‘Complete WiFi’ (guarantees reliable signal in every room or £100 back), and BT Mobile offers including a double data boost for all household customers.
Halo 3+ is available from 5th February. For new customers, it costs from £65.99/month. BT says existing customers will receive the best deals and to contact the company to discuss their options.
Existing customers can add Hybrid Connect to their packages for £7/month.
BT promises there will be no out-of-contract price hikes and existing customers will pay no more than new.
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