New dongle v microADSB

[Anmer]

as most service providers charge on data use.

Mine doesn't.

[bigskybirds]

I purchased two of my R820T dongles from Andy at Jetvision.de to ensure the author gets something back for developing the software. Other software is available but RTL1090 works well for me.

[viking9]

In over 7 years I don't recall a mass lobby to drive prices down.  I think most understood the research and manufacturung costs associated with low volume technical products and that the two main suppliers had invested heavily in software development, marketing and distribution.

There may not have been a 'mass lobby', Mike - probably due to the fact that ADS-B was not widely known. However, the emergence of the PlaneGadget and other lower cost receivers points to a definite desire to enter the hobby more cheaply. Even the Beast was initially seen as a cheaper alternative to the two main providers.

[Anmer]

However, the emergence of the PlaneGadget and other lower cost receivers points to a definite desire to enter the hobby more cheaply. Even the Beast was initially seen as a cheaper alternative to the two main providers.

And where is the PlaneGadget now?

My point is that the market was able to sustain a £500 price tag and, if Kinetic is to be belived, SBS-3 sales are still strong.  I wonder if many "dongle" customers will upgrade to "specialist" receivers and whether the long overdue Pucks make it to market?

Interesting times ahead.