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Welcome back. Time for another installment in the X-Series Answers series. This time around we provide some clarity about the difference between unlimited internet access and unlimited data (there isn't any difference!) and talk a little about using X-Series when you roam.
Access of data?
On the industry blog, SMS Text News, Ewan asked for a clarification on the difference between Unlimited Internet access and Unlimited data.
3 UK writes: Because X-Series is an unlimited service (subject to fair use policy, of course), you will not be billed for any access to the Internet from your X-Series mobile and it will not show on your account.
We have not intentionally blocked access to services or prevented access to, or downloads from, any particular sites. However, we have not tested the service or the handsets for applications or uses other than those promoted by 3.
If you can download clients and access websites or web-based services of your choosing, then this access will be included as part of the Unlimited data offer, other than where we separately offer that same service with a client we have provided (such as Sling and Orb).
Please be aware that we cannot guarantee access to all sites through our network or that your X-Series handset can support any software other than the software included by 3 or the handset manufacturer. In addition, the manufacturer's handset warranty may become void if it develops a fault due to any software or applications that are not installed on the handset by the manufacturer.
Skype to Skype roaming
Phil asked about roaming charges for Skype to Skype calls.
3 UK writes: When you are on 3's networks abroad you can use the same X-Series services you can access in the UK. Like when you are on the 3 network in the UK, we cannot guarantee that 3's networks overseas will permit access to all websites and web applications. Except for Skype, you will not pay international roaming rates when you use X-Series services on 3's networks abroad. Currently, Skype calls made from your 3 mobile on 3's networks abroad will attract international roaming voice call charges.
There are no networks overseas other than 3's networks, that currently support using X-Series services. If for any reason you manage to connect and use data services when on non-3 networks overseas then you will be charged our standard international roaming data charges.
3Mail is not included in X-Series as it is a different non-web based email service.
//de & tz
I can understand Three not making any promises about X-Series' unlimited data being usable through third party programs, but is there anyone out there making a list of stuff that DOES work?
As soon as X-Series launches in Australia, I'll be trying to compile such a list - unless one of you Brits beats me to it ;) .
Posted by: Daniel | Dec 20, 2006 at 00:46
Why 3mail is not included is beyond understanding. Isn't e-mail a data service?
Posted by: marat | Dec 20, 2006 at 09:54
This clarification is very useful. Thanks 3!
Re. working apps, no surprise but the Google Mobile app does seem to work and now I know it won't incur charges, I'll be using it!
Posted by: Mark | Dec 20, 2006 at 12:06
Can anyone tell me when the W950i will be available on X-Series in the UK.
It was originally listed as one of the launch handsets and now it's just the n73, which I really don't want.
It's pretty pointless launching this wonderful product and all the freedom it involves when you're restricted to one particular handset!
Posted by: Simon | Dec 27, 2006 at 21:03
You say 'currently' SKype calls made from abroad attract interntational roaming charges, do you hope that's going to change? Skype is my main reason for getting X-series as as I travel for work and they don't pay for calls home!
Posted by: cate | Jan 01, 2007 at 17:03
Would 3 like to give a better time frame when the X-Series will be available in other parts of the world.
Early 2007 could mean any time from January to December and if I know what some companies are like in regards to Auzzieland. Me thinks that it won't even be til 2008.
Plus if we do get better dates we can postpone getting in to new contracts and the like or upgrading until x-series gets to our shores.
Posted by: Ranma | Jan 03, 2007 at 15:45
Hi Ranma,
Early 2007 means Q1 I believe. You should see X-Series arrive within that time frame in Australia.
Keep an eye on the 3 Australia web site for more info!
de
Posted by: de | Jan 03, 2007 at 15:53
Regardless of how Skype is configured on 3's network, S2S calls should be free, wherever customers are in the world. After all, this is the USP of Skype. To incur roaming charges for S2S usage makes a mockery of the original Skype proposition. I was going to order an X-Series phone after eight years with O2 / Cellnet, but now I'm not so sure...
Posted by: mark | Jan 11, 2007 at 12:14