You are right... we had this discussion before. But, some haven't... And I am sure those networks that have done the same have similar forums that also ask whether it is morally OK and/or fairly justifiable for their operators.
The bit that seems to get a lot of us is the news that the cost of our phones isn't in our plan prices, even though the plan price varies depending on which handset we have. When we renew our contracts, any of the EE Sales team will tell you that the cost of a plan for the latest iPhone is more than the cost of the latest Samsung. By virtue of that, without reading every word of the contract, it is reasonable for a Consumer to think that the cost of the Plan must partially be based on the cost of the handset loan. But apparently not. 😲
It all seems a bit fishy to me. There is a plan price guide which shows a range for what it could cost per month for different allowances. It doesn't say what the deciding factor is in whereabouts in that range your specific plan may end up. Hmmmm... I wonder what it could be?
Something is up, and it needs explaining. Maybe we've been mis sold? (Haven't looked into that route yet 🤔.)
Nevertheless, they've all got away with it while the yearly increments were so small. But now it is exposed, EE don't have any way of justifying other than to say "it's in your contract".
I recognise this forum has become a place to vent and let out frustration rather than seek solace, or even a solution but hopefully that in itself helps people for the future.
Interestingly, I wrote to Watchdog about it. I then got a call and an email from Morning Live. There's a lot of interest in the morality and perceived openness of what is going on across the industry. I don't think anyone here is short sighted enough to think it is only EE - but they are our provider. Got to start the revolution somewhere 😉
My very simple argument is that it is inferred during the buying process that the handset has a bearing on the the monthly price. To tell me now that is not the case, without a meaningful explanation, means something is wrong somewhere and I would like to know what the issue is.
There's just too much wrong here that has only come to light due to the excessive price hike. Despite statements to the contrary, I don't believe EE have been open.
And for that reason..... I will likely vote with my feet in May with the 3 out of 4 lines I have. I think Giff Gaff will be getting a lot of Custom in the coming months. Maybe even O2 (who own GiffGaff), as they have separated their handset costs from the plan price for some years. (EE now offer that option too, apparently - I don't know since when?)
