zeit.de
Germany's Call-by-Call Phone System Ends
Germany's call-by-call system, offering cheaper phone prefixes, ends due to declining usage (1.6% of phone minutes in 2023, down from 4.2% in 2013) caused by flat-rate plans and internet calling; impacting low-income individuals and those lacking internet access.
- How did the rise of flat-rate tariffs and internet-based communication contribute to the decline of call-by-call?
- The demise of call-by-call reflects a broader shift in telecommunications. The increased affordability and prevalence of flat-rate plans and internet-based calling (e.g., WhatsApp, FaceTime) have rendered the need for cheaper prefixes obsolete for most consumers. This transition is consistent with technological advancements that continually reshape communication patterns.
- What is the significance of the termination of Germany's call-by-call system for consumers and the telecommunications market?
- Call-by-call, a system of cheaper phone prefixes in Germany, is ending. This follows a decline in usage from 4.2% of phone minutes in 2013 to 1.6% in 2023, due to the rise of flat-rate tariffs and internet-based communication services. The system, operating since the late 1990s, allowed for significantly cheaper calls, especially international ones.
- What are the potential societal implications of ending call-by-call, considering its impact on vulnerable populations' access to affordable international communication?
- The discontinuation of call-by-call will disproportionately impact low-income individuals and those without internet access, particularly the elderly and immigrants making international calls. While alternatives exist (e.g., international flat rates, messenger apps), navigating these options may prove challenging for some. This creates a potential digital divide and necessitates proactive outreach by providers to ensure equitable access to affordable international communication.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the end of Call-by-Call as a natural and inevitable consequence of technological advancement. While it acknowledges the service's past importance, the emphasis is on its declining popularity and the readily available alternatives. The headline itself contributes to this framing by announcing the end of Call-by-Call as a fait accompli, without highlighting the potential negative consequences for certain groups.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral. Terms like "Sparvorwahlen" (savings prefixes) and "Billig-Vorwahlen" (cheap prefixes) could be considered slightly loaded, implying that cost was the primary driver of usage. However, the overall tone is informative rather than judgmental.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the decline of Call-by-Call services and their replacement by flat-rate plans and internet-based communication. While it mentions that a gap exists for affordable international calls, it doesn't delve into the potential difficulties faced by vulnerable populations (elderly, low-income, or those with limited internet access) in transitioning to alternative services. The article briefly mentions the existence of other options but doesn't provide details on cost comparisons or accessibility for those who may struggle with the transition. This omission could leave readers with an incomplete understanding of the impact on specific demographics.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplistic eitheor scenario: Call-by-Call is gone, therefore alternatives like flat rates and internet calls are sufficient. It doesn't fully acknowledge the complexities of digital literacy, internet access, and affordability that may prevent some users from easily adopting these alternatives.
Sustainable Development Goals
The discontinuation of Call-by-Call services disproportionately affects low-income individuals and those without internet access, hindering their ability to affordably maintain contact with family and friends. This exacerbates existing inequalities in access to communication.