T-Mobile's Binge On service is probably illegal based on a new Stanford university study that claimed it violates key standards of net neutrality. The move follows the major nationwide carrier claiming video views on the wireless network of the "Uncarrier" have more than doubled since it rolled out the new deal.
Binge On allows T-Mobile subscribers to watch content including streaming videos without subtracting from their data caps. It includes several content providers such as Netflix.
Critics of the T-Mobile service claim that the Internet service is "tiered." They argue Binge On gives an advantage to companies that participate in the program.
Barbara van Schewick was the study's author. She is a Stanford law professor and a net neutrality expert.
Schewick explained that the T-Mobile service has the right name. That is because in the short term it provides benefits but in the long term harms customers.
The Stanford professor argued that Binge On reduces user choices and innovation, and harms free speech on the web. Schewick predicted that more similar programs would make the situation worse.
Schewick's study included many of the main arguments made against Binge On. They include claims that it reduces consumer choice and penalizes customers who use unsupported rival carriers' services.
For example, Binge On supports Vevo TV for music videos and Ustream for live-streaming video. However, it does not support Vimeo and YouTube, or Periscope or Meerkat.
The Stanford study also implies that T-Mobile does not clearly explain the technical requirements needed to use Binge On. It also suggests that it benefits big companies, but makes it difficult for non-business ISPs and startup companies to join, according to The Verge.
The law professor argued that if other carriers and ISPs offer promotions like Binge On and pick zero-rated services it will have a big effect on the industry.
Schewick has filed a 51-page report with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and claimed T-Mobile's Binge On violates net neutrality, according to Tech Dirt. However, it is unclear what steps the FCC will take.
Last year the FCC rolled out its Open Internet order. However, it stated it will deal with zero-rating cases individually.