The high Internet and data speeds Verizon Wireless customers currently enjoy could soon be a thing of the past for high-volume users, the company said.
The move to smooth out customer's experiences will see the company slow its 4G LTE users, throttling back on those who use large amounts of data on their smartphones.
Called "network optimization" by the company, the tactic has been in existence since 2011, but had been used only on 3G users until now. With more Verizon users on the 4G LTE network, the move aims to ensure that all its customers have access and connectivity without losing too much speed.
The moves will only affect users who are in the top 5 percent of usage, at 4.7 gigabytes or higher.
"Starting in October 2014, Verizon Wireless will extend its network optimization policy to the data users who: fall within the top 5 percent of data users on our network, have fulfilled their minimum contractual commitment, and are on unlimited plans using a 4G LTE device," the Verizon announcement said.
"They may experience slower data speeds when using certain high bandwidth applications, such as streaming high-definition video or during real-time, online gaming, and only when connecting to a cell site when it is experiencing heavy demand," it added.
The company says that the move is part of its efforts to have a larger network and deliver high-quality service to all its users. Verizon also said it no longer offers unlimited data plans, which is why it expects to throttle users down after they reach a certain data point monthly.
Criticism is abounding over the move, which some say will hurt those who were not at fault when they signed up for Verizon's unlimited data plans. But the company says this is not throttling in the traditional sense -- instead ,it will be part of the network optimization that will only reduce speeds in high congestion areas, such as urban city centers.
"Once you are no longer connected to a site experiencing high demand, your speed will return to normal. This could mean a matter of seconds or hours, depending on your location and time of day," Verizon says of "throttling."
Analysts expect much consternation over the move, and it could see some users jumping ship, but only time will tell if the issue will really become controversial.
