Data and speed
| Term | What it means for a purchase |
|---|---|
| GB versus Mbps | GB measures the amount transferred; Mbps measures the transfer rate. A 20GB pack at 42Mbps has two separate limits. |
| FUP / fair usage policy | A policy can limit speed or use after a threshold. Read the threshold and what happens next; “unlimited” alone is incomplete. |
| Shared pool | Several lines or countries draw from the same allowance. Three SIMs sharing 60GB do not receive 60GB each. |
| Tethering / hotspot | Sharing the connection with a laptop or another device. The tariff may impose a separate allowance or restriction. |
OFCA’s subscription guidance explains why use limits should be checked before agreement. A maximum speed is not a measured speed at your desk; reception and congestion still matter.
Four different expiry dates
- Activation deadline: the last date you can start a purchased service. Missing it may waste an unused pack.
- Pack validity: the period for spending its allowance, such as 30 days or 365 days. It does not automatically renew monthly.
- SIM/account validity: how long the line remains active. This may require a qualifying recharge or purchase even if you still have balance.
- Commitment period: how long you owe contractual fees. Its end does not necessarily cancel the service.
Prices that look smaller than the bill
“Average monthly” may spread a rebate over a long contract. “From” identifies a starting option, not every option on the page. “Free months” may be bill credits rather than months with no payment at all. Add compulsory administration fees and distinguish refundable deposits, spendable top-up balance and non-refundable service charges.
MNP, eSIM and roaming
MNP means moving an existing number to a new carrier; OFCA says to keep the old line active until the move completes. eSIM describes the installed SIM format, not whether you have voice or SMS. Roaming means using service outside the home network’s territory; its daily charge can follow a specified time zone rather than 24 hours from first use.