Roaming charges are not only one of the most annoying aspects of going on holiday they’re also one of the most ridiculous.
Well now it looks as though EE has put the final nail in the coffin for its roaming charges by finally announcing that all its customers will soon be able to use their plans for free in the EU.
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While EE was notoriously slow on the uptake with free roaming it now looks as though the network has gone above and beyond as it’s offering one of the most comprehensive roaming deals we’ve seen.
So what does it mean for you as an EE customer? Well if you’re on one of their pay monthly or pay as you go plans you will be able to use your minutes, texts and data for free in 47 European countries from 15 June.
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If however, you’re on one of EE’s new premium 4GEE Max plans then we’ve got even better news.
Not only do you get free roaming in all 47 of those European countries but you also get free roaming in the USA, New Zealand, Canada, Mexico and Australia.
That first one will be a huge relief to some as roaming charges in the US have always historically been pretty huge.
There’s a catch to that though, it only affects a bunch of new 4GEE Max plans that are going to become available from the 10 May. If you’re currently on a 4GEE Max plan then sadly you’re just getting those 47 EU countries.
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While this is good news all round don’t think that much of it is out of the kindness of EE’s heart. The EU recently passed legislation that banned roaming charges within EU member states so EE is, in some respects just following the law.
Of course what will really matter is when the UK leaves the EU, will phone networks be able to maintain free roaming or will we have to start paying again.
For now though, enjoy it while it lasts!
Best Smartphones You Can Buy In 2017
Apple iPhone 7
Eduardo Munoz / Reuters
This is Apple’s best iPhone ever, and if we’re honest it’s one of their most innovative devices yet. It has an incredible camera, is water-resistant and boasts a stunning bright new display. Of course it can’t escape the rumours surrounding next year’s device but if you’re looking to buy a smartphone right now, and Apple are on your radar, this is the phone for you.
Google Pixel
The Huffington Post UK
This is Google’s iPhone. It’s that simple. As such there are achievements and compromises. If you’re after an incredibly well-built, powerful Android flagship, Google have given you a truly five-star smartphone. If you’re a photographer, the Pixel’s camera and cloud storage option make this a no brainer. It's not cheap though, with the XL costing over £800.
OnePlus 3T
The Huffington Post UK
The OnePlus 3T is simply a continuation of the ethos that makes OnePlus phones so good. It’s exceptionally well-built, powerful and offers you everything you could want in an affordable and meaningful package. No smartphone will give you more value for money.
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Samsung Galaxy S7 edge
Bloomberg via Getty Images
With a new curved back and larger 5.5-inch display the Samsung Galaxy S7 edge is more about evolution than revolution. The S7 edge now sports a water-resistant body, embedded camera and a MicroSD card slot. The S7 edge is also Samsung's most powerful smartphone yet, so powerful in fact that Samsung have actually had to equip a tiny water-cooling system inside the phone. The good news though is that means you'll never have to worry about getting a warm hand.
Apple iPhone SE
The Huffington Post UK
Incredibly, Apple's familiar-looking iPhone SE manages to boast the same performance as its top-of-the-range iPhone 6s making it the most powerful 4-inch smartphone available. If you're keen to return to the days of one-handed texting then Apple's bite-sized iPhone is the smartphone for you.
LG G5
ASSOCIATED PRESS
The LG G5 sets itself apart from rivals like the S7, Xperia XA and the iPhone 6s by being something utterly unique. The G5 is the first commercial 'modular' phone, allowing you to swap out the bottom for new accessories. So far there's an audio one made in partnership with Bang & Olufsen and a camera-focused attachment which gives you extra camera controls.
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Huawei P9
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The Huawei P9 is a smartphone designed for capturing life. Thanks to a partnership with photography legends Leica this dual-lens camera can take pictures that'll put your dedicated camera to shame. Of course it helps that the P9 is also a pretty great Android smartphone as well.
Google Nexus 5X
The Nexus 5X strikes the ultimate balance between power and affordability. Taking over the responsibility from the frankly excellent Nexus 5, Google's new smartphone boast an ultra-light body but still crams in a fingerprint sensor, the latest version of Android marshmallow and a Full-HD display.
