NetCologne launches 500Mbps broadband speeds

German regional telecoms operator NetCologne has increased the maximum downstream speed available to its residential internet customers up to 500Mbps. The new high-speed service, which offers upstream rates of 40Mbps, is available as part of a triple-play package with fixed telephony and IPTV for EUR19.95 (USD22.9) per month for the first six months and EUR69.95 thereafter, or as a standalone internet service for EUR19.95 per month for the first six months and EUR66.95 thereafter. NetCologne, which is owned by utilities company GEW Cologne, operates predominantly in the cities of Cologne, Bonn and Aachen, and their surrounding areas and municipalities.