How handset contracts work, and your rights at contract end.
A Pay Monthly contract bundles a new handset with an airtime plan in a single monthly payment. The device cost is spread over 24 months at 0% interest. Under Ofcom rules, the maximum initial commitment period is 24 months.
Several networks now show device and airtime as separate line items. O2 Refresh is the clearest example.
When your 24-month contract ends, networks often auto-roll at the same price. Text INFO to 85075 to check your end date. Then text PAC to 65075 and switch to SIM Only.
Under Ofcom's January 2025 rule, any rise must be stated in exact pounds and pence at sign-up. Tesco Mobile Clubcard Price plans are the exception.
Three: 24-month with 5G. New plans capped 100 Mbps from April 2026.
O2: O2 Refresh splits device and airtime. Switch Up: upgrade every 11 months.
EE: Full Works for iPhone includes Apple One — world's first.
Tesco Mobile: Clubcard Price deals — base price frozen.
Vodafone: EVO device financing. Annual rises £2.50/month each 1 April.