Using mobile broadband abroad

[hc4361]

On smartphone, laptop via dongle, or 3G tablet.

WHY does it have to so expensive? Especially in Europe where so many providers operate throughout all of the European countries.

It makes no sense, especially as some European countries make it very difficult for non residents to get PAYG sim cards.

[ChuckFickens]

It's not that expensive in EU countries now since the EU passed a law about it.... go outside the EU and it's a very different matter though.

[ChuckFickens]

http://en.wikipedia.o...lations#Common_limits

[hc4361]

The new laws come into effect in July, I think, Chuck and I think it is still too expensive.

Why can't we use our existing allowances within the EU?

[ChuckFickens]

You can't use your existing allowance because you are not using your home network, you are using a foreign network who in turn bill your home network for the usage.

It's a maximum of 70p per MB at the moment, but that will drop on a yearly basis from now on, down to 20p by 2014.

(a lot of providers charge less than the maximum)

[ChuckFickens]

That's shout be in Euros, not pence.

[ChuckFickens]

I should also add there is a legal requirement to cut the service at a maximum charge of €50 unless you pre-approve a higher cut off with your provider.

[hc4361]

I understand that, Chuck, but what gets my goat is it can be the same provider, just a different country.

[ChuckFickens]

They are not the same provider, They are still as separate businesses if it's in a different country.

[hc4361]

The day will come when we can all roam free. Born free.

Maybe not in my lifetime.