Pay as you go services

[Calgully]

Can I use my iPhone 4's wiFi hotspot function to share my Vodafone PAYG data quota with my other devices? 

Or does Voda insist/enforce that all data is used only on the iPhone itself?

If this is possible it makes the 500Mb for 5 pounds "Text and Web" recharge look like an attractive way to buy mobile broadband data - and with 300 SMSs thrown in for good measure. 

[Calgully]

I've checked out the online terms and conditions and I am still usnure about this.

I found the following relevant clause....

"...If you're on an unrestricted data price plan or data bundle, you can use the internet for a) calls over the internet, b) legally sharing data files, c) giving other people access to your mobile equipment over the internet. However, if you're on a restricted price plan we'll a) block access to these services...."

So, is the Pay as You Go Text and Web freebee (including 500Mb of data) classified as an "unrestricted data price plan" or is it "restricted".

Thanks in advance.

[Simon]

Hi Calgully

The Personal Hotspot feature on the iPhone is a data connection via tethering. Unfortunately there isn't a tethering APN for PAYG so the Personal Hotspot feature can only be used if you're on a pay monthly agreement.

Thanks

Simon

[Calgully]

Thanks Simon.

That's disappointing.  Disappointing also that its so difficult to uncover that fact.

So, a supplementary question.  Is it possible for an international visitor to sign up to a monthly agreement?  As it happens I will be in the UK for exactly 1 month later this month, so that would suit me perfectly.  However I don't have a UK credit card nor do I have a permanent UK residential address.  Would I qualify for a 1 month contract?  I have Australian passport, credit card and other id.

[James]

Hi calgully,

Unfortunately due to the credit vetting process you wouldn’t be able to get a contract however you would still be able to use one of our PAYG SIM’s that offer excellent value for money with our freebee packs.

James

[Calgully]

Thank you Simon. So, am I able to use one of these data-only SIM cards in my iPhone? I believe that here in Australia most or all operators prohibit or prevent this type of usage.

[Simon · Accepted solution]

Hi Calgully

Good question and it's worth a shout. I'm afraid that the mobile broadband SIM wouldn't be compatible with your mobile device.

You can only get a mobile broadband SIM by purchasing a mobile broadband dongle anyway, and the SIM card would be a standard size SIM and not a Micro SIM. You can find more information on Pay As You Go mobile broadband dongles here - Vodafone Mobile Broadband.

Thanks

Simon

[Calgully]

Thank you for your help here.  I cant justify 25pounds plus data fees for a piece of hardware that I will use for only 3 weeks.

Whilst I haven't been able to find a service here for me here, I must compliment Vodafone UK on your quality advice and pre-sales support - even for someone like me who as an international visitor is never going to be a large source of revenue for you.

Keep it up and thanks again.