3 launch mix-and-match tariffs

Mobile network 3 have “called time on ‘one-size-fits-all’ call plans” today, with the announcement of their new customisable tariff concept.

According to the operator, Mix & Match has been designed to be completely flexible and to appeal to both value seekers and fans of the latest handset. For the first time ever, 1 minute is equivalent to 1 text. There are five options in the new tariff range, from £15 a month for 300 minutes and texts, plus 300 minutes of free 3 to 3 mobile calls, to £27 for 1100 minutes and texts per month. You can add an extra 200 minutes/texts to your plan at any time you want for just £3 a month up to a maximum of 1100 minutes/texts, avoiding any hidden, pricey penalties.

Once you’ve tailored your price plan, you match it to your choice of up to 20 handsets – including the rather in demand Nokia N95. You also get free voicemail, 300 free 3-to-3 minutes (including sister networks abroad), and it costs just 12p a minute to any network outside of your allowance.

On the data side, 3 are chucking in free Windows Live or Yahoo! Messenger services, free Skype calling, and free eBay bidding and buying.