Why do GSM networks insist we buy their modems

[Womail]

Seems strange that the GSM networks in Nigeria insist that we must use their internet modems when it is much cheaper if we buy our own from independent sources. For example, one of the networks will sell you their 3G version for 23k but I can get the same unlocked modem for half price - AND still be able to use any other GSM network of my choice! Afterall, I can buy my phone handset and use any sim card whether Glo, Etisalat etc I choose abi? So now that the have seen how to cream off us by blocking access to the web except we go through them only, they want to go for broke abi? It is so unfair! When Glo saved us from per minute charging by MTN, we rejoiced. Nowadays, they all seem to have got into bed together to shaft us all without vaseline! Why is Nigeria so anti-competition?

[netotse]

they're are simply trading on our collective ignorance now, most of us just assume that because they ssay we should buy it they're a 100%right 'cause they're the experts

[Womail]

Too true! It is so unfair! MTN would have killed 9Ja folks with their per minute charging until Glo came in with per second billing. Now it seems that the 9Ja in Glo has got in bed with the rest of them to form a cabal/cartel.
The fact is that data traffic is the next big thing and he who holds the key to how you and I get access to the WWW can milk you dry.
Judging from the convergence of different media (mobile is now mini mobile comptuer and vice versa), they realise that traditional telephony is on its knees.
Internet modems or Dongles are the next key way to get online via mobile devices, so they want to choke the poor man and hold us all to ransom. Haba!

[afam]

As more and more people get to understand how technology works the companies will find it difficult to hoodwink people.

A modem is simply a modem and no company should force anyone to purchase a modem from it.

Just as phones can be unlocked modems can be unlocked too.