Three mobiles, tariffs and sim only

About Three

Three's network ethos is "Simple, Straightforward, Good Value". The Three network is particularly strong for data traffic with an aim to cover 98% of the UK population for data and voice by the end of 2010.

The network is also vocal about consumer issues such as Mobile termination rates, roaming and hidden charges.

The networks infrastructure is backed by a range of tariff plans and the latest handsets with Pay monthly, Pay as You Go and Sim only as well as their Award Winning Mobile Broadband.

Coverage and Data are the networks strengths with account benefits including Windows Messenger, free Skype and voicemail.

History

The 3/Three Brand and network founded in 2002 is owned by Hutchison Whampoa Limited who have majority interests in the 3 branded networks that service over 11 countries.

The UK network launched on the 3rd March 2003 (3/3/2003), the fastest roll out in telecoms history and within 3 years the network acquired over 3 million subscribers.

Towards the end of 2005 the network had increased its customer base to 4 million and was the UK's largest 3G network, having more 3G subscribers than all of its competitors put together.

Utilising the new 3G technology, Three were the first mobile network to provide streaming tv and music content to consumers, this included sporting events and highlights from tv shows such as Big Brother and XFactor.

Three's brand, products and high street presence have continued to grow while also creating the UK's most extensive high speed mobile broadband network that covers 94.5% of the UK population with a target of 98% by the end of 2010.

Three are also active in the industry with campaigns for competition in the market, cheaper pricing of roaming calls and less hidden charges.

Facts

• The Three network was launched on the 3rd of the 3rd month, 2003.
• Three have the best mobile broadband network in the UK.
• Three were the first mobile provider of TV and music content.

Tariffs & Plans

The recently announced "One Plan" tariff from Three offers good value, particularly as providers start to reduce unlimited data plans.

The One Plan includes 2000 minutes, 5000 Three to Three minutes, 5000 text messages and 1GB of Internet usage, prices on a Sim only basis start from £25 a month (12 months) or if you need a handset between £28-£45 (24 months).

Other plans include Internet/Texter/Talker, these offer a variety of options from £12 per month along with 1 month, 30 day rolling contract Sim only plans from only £5 per month.

Three have also introduced Micro-Sim data plans for the iPad, rolling contracts start from just £7.50 a month for 1GB of data.

Three network benefits include Free Skype to Skype calls, Windows Live Messenger chat, free voicemail and 25% off Mobile Broadband.

Service Coverage UK

Three have focused very much on their coverage strength and network infrastructure, through investment and partner agreements the Three network now covers 99% of the population for calls and text messages with a network of 10400 masts.

In addition Three have an agreement with Orange for customers to automatically use their masts/network if a customer falls outside of their local coverage.

Three also have the UK's best high speed mobile broadband network. Three promises to reach 98% of the UK population for Internet and mobile broadband use by the end of 2010.

Three customer support

Three's consumer range is extensive, starting from Pay Monthly, Pay as you go, Sim Only, Mobile Broadband and Laptops.

Coverage extends to 99% of the UK population, along with free standard delivery, a secure transactional web portal and a 14 days return policy.

Customers have access to services and account management via the "My3 account" interface in which customers can view/pay bills, purchase top ups and buy add ons either via their PC or Phone.

Three also provide a comprehensive online FAQ that covers common questions, set up guides, troubleshooting for all of their product range.

Contact and email details are easily found via the website, you can also request a callback within 72 hours.

Contact details

3 Customer Services
Hutchison 3G UK Ltd
PO Box 333
Glasgow
G2 9AG

Customer Services Telephone

From your Three mobile DIAL 333 (Free)
From a landline DIAL 0843 373 3333 (landlines or other networks may vary)
From abroad DIAL +44 7782 333 333 (landlines or other networks may vary)