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If you own a recent smartphone and in particular one that makes use of a fairly large display, then it stands to reason that you might be making use of Netflix on your smartphone. After all, while video content is one of the most data-demanding aspects of a smartphone, manufacturers, app-creators and even carriers have been making it as easier to consume video content while on the go. None more so than T-Mobile who now whitelists various video content providers (including Netflix) from their data charges through T-Mobile’s Binge On Service.
While that is all well and good, you do still need to ensure that you have a fairly good signal to begin with, to be able to enjoy video content hassle and buffer-free. Which is often where tools like Ookla’s speed test can come in, as they can provide you with a quantitative measurement of just how good your current wireless signal is on your mobile. Although, if you are in the market for an alternative to Ookla, then it might be worth checking out the new FAST Speed Test app that is now available to download from the Google Play Store. Which interestingly, is being brought to you by Netflix.
The FAST Speed Test is a rather no-frills approach and while the app is free and does not make use of any ads at all, there is not much on offer in the way of an interface. Which will likely suit some people. Once you fire up the app, there is not much else to do. The app instantly starts to measure the incoming signal and after a couple of seconds provides you with a reading of your signal. This is actually an extension of the web-based service that Netflix already offers which launched back in May of this year. However, if you would prefer the exact same functionality but in app form, then now the option is available. As mentioned, the app is very lightweight, is free and is ad-free. So while it is basic in its use, it does get the job done. It is also worth noting that the app does provide a link to SpeedTest.net (by Ookla) so you can check to see how accurate or not your results from the FAST Speed Test are.
