Mobile operator O2 has launched a range of 4G tariffs targeted at the budget end of the market, whilst at the same time revealing that its next-generation network coverage plans are ahead of schedule.
From today, the costs of its pay monthly (Refresh) 4G tariffs have been reduced and data allowances increased. Its 4G Refresh tariffs now start at 17 per month and comes with unlimited texts, minutes and 1GB of data. For 22 and 27, the operator offers 5GB and 8GB respectively. Its SIM-only Simplicity contract now offers 1GB of data plus unlimited calls and texts for 21 per month, down from 26. The 3GB bundle now cost 26, down from 31 and the 8GB option is priced at 31 per month. "We are committed to helping our customers unleash the possibilities of 4G, which is why we're introducing these new tariffs designed to give even more people the chance to experience the very best in mobile technology," said Phil Maple, O2 general manager of consumer marketing. The firm added that in the 11 weeks since the summer switch on of its 4G networks, the firm has a 4G network covering 13 cities and over 140 surrounding towns, hitting its 2013 rollout target six weeks ahead of schedule. Its 4G network now covers: Birmingham, Bradford, Coventry, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, Leicester, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle, Sheffield, London and Nottingham. "Nearly a third of the UK population can now experience the remarkable things that O2 4G has to offer, thanks to the fastest network rollout in our history," Maple added. O2 also dangled a carrot in front of some 3G customers with the offer of a free upgrade to 4G. Customers will need to be on a tariff with 1GB of data or more as well as a 4G-enabled phone to get transferred at no extra cost.
Current 4G customers that purchased their contracts direct from O2 will receive a boost to their monthly data allowance all with no change to their monthly bill.
