EE 4G Increases Data Allowance… But Not For Smartphones

EE 4G customers are set to get a data boost as the operator appears to have responded to criticism of its data plans, but for dongles only, not for smartphone users.

It is increasing the data allowance on some of its deals by as much as 60 percent. The new caps will be applied at no extra cost to all new and existing customers.

The 2GB plan is now increased to 3GB, the 3GB rises to 5GB and the 5GB contract now has a cap of 8GB. But there are no changes to EE 4G smartphone allowances. This is only for those using a dongle

The UK’s only 4G network is also set to introduce a number of new mobile broadband deals, including a one-month SIM-only plan that offers 5GB of data for £15.99 a month. Those who want an EE 4G dongle or mobile Wi-Fi device as well can get a deal starting as £12.99 a month for 1GB of data.

EE 4G data caps rise

“These updates underline our commitment to offering customers the best value and choice from our plans,” said Pippa Dunn, chief marketing officer, consumer at EE.

“We recognise Superfast 4GEE opens up a range of possibilities for our customers from browsing to gaming to HD movie streaming so it’s right that we increase the breadth of our plans to meet everyone’s needs. And customers signing up to our £15.99 5GB SIM-only plan get great value whether they’re on 4G or 3G, and they will receive their first month free.”

Many were surprised at the cost and relatively low data allowances of EE 4G’s price plans when they were revealed last month, but CEO Olaf Swantee has defended the operator’s strategy.

EE 4G is currently available in 11 cities, including London, Manchester, Bristol, Birmingham, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Leeds, Liverpool, Sheffield, Southampton and Glasgow, with another five due to come online before Christmas.

Most other UK mobile networks are expected to launch LTE services in the first quarter of 2013, once the sale of spectrum has been completed, although Three has said it will not do so until next September.

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