02 January 2024 , 12:12
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Mobile prices are rising as UK network providers are set to hike rates this April 2024, upping plans to fit in line with inflation. It's a cost of living change that could see billpayers charged more for their phone and data each month, even if you're on an existing contract.
Providers including Three Mobile, Virgin Media, Tesco Mobile, BT and EE are all set to hike prices as many existing and new customers look at ways to avoid paying more for their handsets. One way to do this is to catch a deal on a cheap handset in the current January sales, paying for it upfront and finding a small monthly pay-as-you-go SIM deal to pair with it, like this unlimited data option from GiffGaff.
Although the looming price hikes shouldn't scare you off taking out a contract, as one provider proves there's still room to save hundreds of pounds a year. Despite prices soaring customers that take out specific SIM-only plans from O2 could end up saving themselves a huge £700 a year in hidden perks and benefits.
Yes, everything from free cinema tickets, free music and TV streaming subscriptions, restaurant discounts, and extra data perks are widely available to existing pay-monthly customers and when added up across the total average 24-month plan it amounts to thousands of pounds in savings.
Last year consumer experts at Uswitch added up the total amount which would see customers make a net saving of £699 across their contract, although this was laid out during the 2023 price rises it's still a hidden perk mobile users can use this 2024 on SIM only contracts.
Even the Tooth Fairy is feeling the cost of living crunch with payments down 10%
Including on its heavily discounted unlimited data SIM, which has dropped to £25 a month in its current winter sale event. A saving of £125 across the plan those that take out the contract will also get access to a free Apple Music subscription and O2 Priority, the app where the hidden benefits can be accessed.
Mobile providers that won't up rates in April for existing customers:
- VOXI by Vodafone
- Lebara
- GiffGaff
- Lyca Mobile
- Asda Mobile
O2 isn't the only provider that offers extra benefits and freebies for existing contract customers, as Vodafone, Sky, Three, and EE (to name a few) do too. If you want to take a look at what each provider offers, in the hopes to save money during the looking price hikes you can take a look at our full round up; 'Perks from Sky Mobile, O2, EE and more to help you pick a deal'.