O2 unveils new unlimited data packages

O2 is trying to satisfy users' hunger for data by launching three new 'unlimited' packages that will be available from Monday.

While the new packages may seem appealing to both business and consumer users, those keen to get a slice of the action must pay heed to the fair usage policies in operation, which - if initial requests aren't complied with - enable O2 to potentially remove the service or impose standard charges.

The mobile giant's new internet service bolt-ons - O2 Web Bolt On, O2 Web Max and Unlimited BlackBerry - are aimed at both pay monthly and pay-as-you-go customers, with the former, which is aimed at web and email fans who are happy to stick to a fair usage policy cap of 200MB, available for just 7.50 a month including VAT.

O2 Web Max costs 30 a month and, subject to a 3GB monthly fair usage cap, is aimed at those who want to connect to the web by using a data card or synching their handset with their PC. Both O2 Web and Web Max are also available to businesses minus VAT, with the latter also giving them 30 minutes of inclusive WLAN time.

The Unlimited BlackBerry package gives users 200MB a month worth of internet access for a fixed cost of 10 a month including VAT.

"O2 has a whole range of devices which provide a great mobile internet experience such as the Xda Orbit, BlackBerry and, of course, the Apple iPhone - and now we are offering unlimited bolt ons to help our customers do what they want without worrying about the bill," said Sally Cowdry, O2's director of marketing.

Maggie Holland

Maggie has been a journalist since 1999, starting her career as an editorial assistant on then-weekly magazine Computing, before working her way up to senior reporter level. In 2006, just weeks before ITPro was launched, Maggie joined Dennis Publishing as a reporter. Having worked her way up to editor of ITPro, she was appointed group editor of CloudPro and ITPro in April 2012. She became the editorial director and took responsibility for ChannelPro, in 2016.

Her areas of particular interest, aside from cloud, include management and C-level issues, the business value of technology, green and environmental issues and careers to name but a few.