[AW2007]

Hi,

I am not too familiar with the way phone contracts work in HK. Basically in Australia we have a contract where we agree to pay say 300HKD a month but we can use anywhere between 0 HKD and 2000HK worth of text and calls. Is there a similar type of setup in HK?

Thanks

[KnowItAll]

You pay a fixed sum and you get a package of minutes, free services like voice mail etc and a fixed number of texts. I think some of the providers allow you to roll the voice minutes over into the next month (not too sure).

[discobay]

That's right but not all service providers give you free text in the monthly packages. Some provide free intra-network text like Smartone-Vodafone others charge HKD1. Most charge for inter-network and overseas text messages. Not ideal and could do with a shake up.

[AW2007]

What are the big mobile companies and what is the average monthly amount they ask you to pay on a contract?

[KnowItAll]

I pay $80 for a 1000 minute contract with voice mail and call forwarding functions with Smartone .. which is in line with what CSL and Three charge. Browse the forums .. you'll see plenty of discussions on specials and rates at the various providers.

Not sure how many text messages I get .. I don't text more than once or twice a week.

[PDLM]

Interestingly for those who travel to the UK, Australia , Ireland, Sweden, Denmark or Austria, I see in the news today that 3 has abolished roaming charges between those countries for their subscribers, which could save a huge amount of money for some...

[KnowItAll]

Is it reciprocal .. i.e. UK three users can roam in HK for free?

Would be interesting to see how Smartone / Vodafone responds.. assuming they do.

[PDLM]

Well I saw it on a UK site so strictly it related to the UK - I must admit I just assumed it would be reciprocal... I can't see how it would be sustainable otherwise - multinationals would simply buy all their phone service in the UK and ship it to the other places...

[discobay]

I think it is in response to an OFTEL investigation/ruling on the high prices of roaming within Europe.

[KnowItAll]

So .. nothing to do with HK subscribers of Three who visit the UK or Australia.