Random thoughts regarding "unlimited" usage

Cool_Username

Wondered about this for a while, but why do so many mobile providers insist on using the word "unlimited" when describing aspects of the contracts they offer? "Unlimited free texts" is one that crops up a lot, but without trying to sound especially pedantic it doesn't actually mean unlimited does it? It actually means "unlimited free texts up to 3000" - or at least it does with Orange.

Now I know the word "unlimited" is there to draw people in because it sounds fantastic - 'I can send as many texts as I like per month and not pay extra' - but realistically should such things really be described as "unlimited"?

Yes there is the "fair usage" smallprint, but again if these unlimited free texts are in fact limited to 3000 - beyond which you start paying for them - then the package doesn't REALLY include "unlimited free texts" does it!?

Bit like having unlimited drink refills that are limited to ten refills for example.

Just a random thought for the evening, don't know what everyone else thinks but I reckon it's a bit odd to say "unlimited free texts" when there is a limit on them...

dan_m2k

I'd agree, the word unlimited+usage cap/fair usage policy (FUP) is misleading. If there's a cap or FUP then it's not unlimited. I'd say it's fair If it's "unlimited" unless you start using it for spamming or taking the p*ss some other way then a FUP is justified. These are very different things to the reality of a teenage girl easily maxing out her "unlimited" airtime though genuine (though likely not that interesting) usage.

Cool_Username

I mean don't misunderstand me here I'm not even arguing that "unlimited free texts" are necessarily feasible - sending 1000 text messages a day would be pretty extreme and unhealthy for example - but again it seems to be a pretty huge contradiction stating "unlimited free texts" when they are in fact limited to 3000 a month.

dan_m2k

I understand there should probably be a limit for technical or other reasons, but then it should not be described as unlimited.

loveangel88

Ive been with orange over 2years, and most months on average i send over 3000 texts, never get charged for going over 3000 texts. I do have an unlimited texts as part of my contract

Cool_Username

loveangel88 wrote: »

Ive been with orange over 2years, and most months on average i send over 3000 texts, never get charged for going over 3000 texts. I do have an unlimited texts as part of my contract

Dunno, the Orange terms and conditions for "unlimited free texts" to specify the 3000 figure as part of their fair usage policy.

jb66

Unlimited texts (max 3000)

Doesnt sound right does it, I dont think they should be allowed to call it unlimited

DarkConvict

Im against the term unlimited unless it really is unlimited.

downuno

Has anyone taken them to court yet? Which side would win?

Cool_Username

I doubt anyone has ever taken the matter to court - I mean it's stated in the terms and conditions of everyone's contracts that the "unlimited free texts" is constrained by what they call "fair usage" - presumably intended as "unlimited but don't take the !!!!" - so Orange/O2/Vodaphone ect aren't actually doing anything wrong in a legal sense I suppose.

Still, calling it "unlimited" when it is limited is pretty nonsensical when you think about it.