eli5 – Why does mobile data cost consumers?

Question

Specifically where does the mobile data originate from? Is it created, does it cost suppliers to “make” it, and do cell/mobile phone networks purchase it from elsewhere

In: 0

Answer 1

Think of “Mobile data” as a pipe.
You are paying for the size of the pipe and the amount of water sent down that pipe.
The “water” comes from the suppliers (youtube, web sites, etc.) and whatever “water” you send down the pipe from your device (pics, messages, email)