3, originally known as Hutchison 3G, was formed in May 2000 after the UK Government awarded five licences to run third generation mobile phone services. The largest licence was set-aside for a newcomer in the market to increase competition – and the 3 network acquired the rights at the lowest cost.
The 3 phone network has a number of unique tariff options including a 3 pay-as-you-go tariff, which has a unique pricing scheme that works on the idea that when you answer the phone they will pay you per minute, and they will pay for every text you receive, known as the ‘WePay’ tariff. This is available for 30 days following an eligible cash top-up option.
There are also a number of 3 contract monthly tariff options. These include standard plans with ranging prices for talk time and hundreds of free text messages, and even a student price plan, which incorporates a vast number of inclusive texts every month.
Use the price comparison tool at moneysupermarket.com to compare the range of 3 tariff options and services available to you. Among these are price plans with free downloads included, allowing you to download full-length music tracks and play games.
Another popular option on 3 phones is wireless web, which allows you to use your handset as a modem for connectivity to the internet at 3G speeds. 3 was also the first in the UK to offer two-way video calling. This allows you to see what your friends are up to as you talk.
There are more than 500 3 ringtones (or ‘dial tones’) to choose from, an alerts option to keep you up-to-date and numerous games available to buy and rent. There is also a range of location-based services to keep you on track and that supplied with the latest traffic information.
Whatever you want from a 3 phone, ensure you use the price comparison tool at moneysupermarket.com to find the cheapest and the best mobile phone deal for you.
