With almost 20 million of us having a second mobile line, the UK’s networks have to work especially hard to earn our custom.
Competition is a good thing.
After rival networks were able to offer Apple’s iPhone, O2 appeared to adopt a more flexible upgrade policy for those looking to switch to the latest model and dropped the additional charge link to for mobile data tethering.
When they’re denied exclusives on handsets, the networks must resort to tariffs that would make shoppers in less competitive markets weep in envy and added value services such as the Orange Wednesdays cinema ticket offer.
When it comes round to contract expiry time, the networks will often dangle a raft of upgrades and discounts before your eyes.
But before you’re tempted to automatically renew with your current network, it might be worth spending 10 minutes on Google finding mobile discount deals which can offer you even better savings.
A number of sites exist which allow customers to get voucher codes for Orange, sister company T-Mobile, O2 and Vodafone which are often accepted in addition to any renewal or introductory offers.
If you do see a great deal available by switching providers, don’t let horror stories from friends and families put you off saving your hard earned money.
Under UK and EU regulations, every mobile customer has the right to move their number between networks, known as porting.
This option is one of the drivers of the competitive market we enjoy, in the days of old users had to sacrifice their number in order to move providers.
You’ll need a PAC code from your existing mobile provider which much be provided immediately over the phone or within two hours by text message.
Once you give this code to your new network, your existing number should be transferred to you new mobile company in one working day, ready for you to enjoy on your new shiny gadget.
Happy shopping.