US-based MVNO FreedomPop launched an OTT application in the UK providing access to its unique ‘free’ service to any customer
FreedomPop continued its push into the U.K. market, launching an over-the-top application designed to expand availability of its unique “free” service offering.
The mobile virtual network operator said the OTT application is compatible with any device and any wireless carrier, providing customers with 200 cellular-based voice calling minutes and 200 text messages free each month. An initial promotion is set to include 300 voice calling minutes to more than 60 countries for the first month for free.
Customers can upgrade to an unlimited voice calling and messaging monthly plan for 4 pounds ($5.65) per month, with FreedomPop noting that customers can use the service as a second phone number from different countries to reduce roaming charges.
In addition to the OTT app, FreedomPop also began offering “certified pre-owned” smartphones in a move to provide lower-cost Samsung, HTC and Huawei devices to consumers. The company noted the phones would begin at $42.21.
FreedomPop earlier this year launched its global hot spot service to consumers in the U.S. and U.K., tapping into cellular networks from various operators to provide a “seamless data connection for free.” The free data allotment amounts to 200 megabytes, with additional cellular data access priced at $10 per 500 MBs. The product, which is priced at $60 with the SIM card, provides free global data in 25 countries, including the U.S. and most of Europe. FreedomPop said it plans to expand the reach of the offering to more than 40 countries by the end of the year.
FreedomPop initially launched service in 2012, offering customers free mobile data services running across Clearwire’s WiMAX network. The company eventually added 3G and LTE support running across Sprint’s network, with a mix of free and inexpensive rate plans. The carrier has since rounded up significant outside investment in pushing its service offering into parts of Asia and Europe.
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