2017 is off to a good start for digitalization in Germany
When looking at the changes coming ahead in this year, it actually doesn’t look too bad and many of the right points are touched. These are only a few things that I read about and the list is definitely not complete. Let me know if I’m missing something big. So here we go:
The end of roaming fees in the EU
From June 15, 2017 network providers will not be allowed to charge more for your phone and data usage if you are in other EU countries than what you pay in your home country. This will finally make the EU appear as one bigger market without the need to think about expensive roaming charges all the time. It’s not yet finally clear if there will be any drawbacks as to the length of the stay, but the general trend is very positive. (Source: EU)
Activation of DVB-T2 HD
On March 29, 2017 the old DVB-T standard for TV via antenna will be shut down and be replaced by the new DVB-T2 HD. It’s the first time that HD goes mainstream for antenna TV and the removal of the old standard will also make place for mobile internet in the future. (Source: DVB-T2)
Internet contracts will need to show the real speeds possible
Internet providers need to be more transparent with the actual speed of your connection and also give information about cancellation procedures on every monthly invoice.
Tax assessments will be mostly automated
From 2017 onwards tax assessments for your annual tax return will be handled mostly automated. This means the tax authorities can work much quicker and only in special cases they will take a special look at your return. It also means you don’t have to hand in the receipts anymore, just if they ask for it later on.
E-Health: Talking with your doctor via video conference will be easier
Some more E-Health laws have been concluded. Therefore from April 2017 speaking to doctors via video conferences will be covered by the German health insurance system. This increases chances for a broader adoption of such technologies. Although I’m still looking for a doctor that actually offers this, recommendations welcome.
Free WiFi in all ICE trains
From January 1, 2017 you can now use WiFi for free in all of the ICEs from Deutsche Bahn, even in second class. Next should be to make this also available in all the local trains but it’s a good start.
So there are lots of things in 2017 that will move Germany forward in the digital age. Of course there is always a lot more to do and we are just at the beginning. One of my personal biggest wishes is that mobile payment via smartphone finally makes the break through, but it’s still depending on how quick the banks can offer solutions and if Apple Pay and Android Pay make it into the German market.
(Source: bitkom)
