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Understanding calls, texts, data and networks

Updated By plan.com

Mobile services can sometimes feel complicated, but the basics are simple once you know how they work. This guide explains the essentials of calls, texts, data, and the different network generations (2G, 3G, 4G and 5G).

Text messages (SMS)

SMS stands for Short Message Service. It’s the standard way to send short text messages between mobile phones. SMS doesn’t need an internet connection and is still widely used for personal messages, alerts, notifications and marketing.

Premium calls

Premium calls cost more than a standard phone call. They’re usually linked to services such as voting lines, competitions, charity donations, chat lines and information services.

 

These calls include both a service charge (set by the company you’re calling) and an access charge. If you’re unsure about a premium number, you can check it here: Premium Number Checker.

International calls

International calls are made from the UK to another country.

  • Calls within the EU usually cost less than calls to non-EU destinations.
  • Before calling abroad, check your tariff’s rates and any available bolt-ons to avoid unexpected charges.

Useful links:

Data: KB, MB and GB

Mobile data is measured in units like KB (kilobytes), MB (megabytes) and GB (gigabytes). For context:

  • A 4-minute song is about 5MB.
  • A standard definition movie is around 1GB.

Knowing this helps you understand and manage your data usage.

Network generations: 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G

Mobile networks have evolved through different “generations”:

  • 2G introduced calls, SMS and MMS.
  • 3G added mobile internet and video calling. It is being switched off and will no longer be available in the UK by the end of 2025.
  • 4G improved internet speeds, making streaming and gaming smoother.
  • 5G delivers much faster speeds, lower delays (latency) and better performance for new technologies like smart devices, augmented reality and connected vehicles.

Who can use 5G?

5G is available to all customers who joined or renewed from 9 May 2022, with a compatible device.

For contracts taken out before this date, 5G is available if you have:

  • At least a 16GB Mobile Tariff or 20GB Mobile Broadband Tariff, and
  • Gold or Platinum level service.

Check 5G coverage in your area:

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