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T-Mobile are shaking up the mobile phone market this week with the launch of a new tariff offering unlimited calls, texts and internet access.

So is it as good as it seems and can we expect other providers to follow suit?

The Full Monty tariff is available on over 25 handsets in the T-Mobile range - including the iPhone 4S, Samsung Galaxy S II and BlackBerry 9900. The two year contract is split into four price brackets ranging from £36 a month up to £61 a month for the highest-spec handsets.

T-Mobile say the tariff will not be subjected to a fair use policy, meaning customers really will have unlimited internet, texts and calls.


Ben Fritsch, head of propositions at T-Mobile UK said the mobile network developed the plan on the back of increased sales and demand for data-hungry smartphones. "Over the past two years we have seen a rise in mobile internet use of over 250%, which reflects the consumer trend of being 'always on' wherever they are. However, consumers also want to retain a more personal level of communication by calling or sending a text," he said.
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Customers on the Full Monty will also be able to use their phone for tethering (using it as an internet connection for a laptop or tablet) at no extra cost. T-Mobile say the Full Monty plan has been designed for customers who want the peace of mind that there are absolutely no limits placed on their allowances, whilst also knowing they are getting market leading value for money.

"We believe our Pay Monthly portfolio offers plans to suit anyone's needs, all at accessible prices – and we're really proud to be the first to offer a plan like The Full Monty in the UK," adds Fritsch.

However, as with any other plan there are certain exceptions: calls to international numbers and those beginning 08 (including 0870) or 070 are charged at 40p a minute; and picture messages are not included in the text allowance.

While the Fully Monty is undoubtedly a good deal, it's worth considering whether you need unlimited usage before deciding to make the switch. It offers great value for heavy usage customers who do a lot of downloading, but it could prove a waste of money for lighter use customers that only use their phone for texts and calls.

Industry insiders also predict that other providers may follow suit and launch rival unlimited plans – perhaps making it worth waiting to see if a price-war breaks out.