Telekom is raising prices for 20 million internet customers as it shifts them from DSL to fiber-optic connections, leaving many without affordable alternatives.
Many customers cannot locate suitable fiber plans matching their old DSL usage
Users who previously relied on low-cost, sluggish DSL packages now face a market where fiber options start at higher speeds and prices, with no equivalent budget tiers available. This mismatch forces consumers to either pay more for service they do not need or remain on outdated copper lines that are being phased out.
The shift reflects a deliberate strategy, not market oversight
According to the report, the lack of affordable fiber offerings is not accidental but stems from Telekom’s pricing approach, which prioritizes higher-margin packages over accessibility for light users. This mirrors the 2022 transition when similar complaints arose during the ISDN shutdown, though this round affects a significantly larger user base.
What happens next for affected customers
Those unable to find a fitting fiber plan may face service disruption as DSL access expires, potentially pushing them toward more expensive mobile broadband or alternative providers. Regulatory scrutiny could increase if consumer complaints grow, though no formal intervention has been announced yet.
Why are 20 million customers affected?
These are the number of Telekom internet users currently on DSL who are being transitioned to fiber as part of the network upgrade.
Is there a cheaper fiber option for light users?
No — the source states that customers with low usage needs find no suitable, affordable offerings on the fiber market.
