British carrier Vodafone and EE have delayed plans to recharg roaming charges for users traveling to EU destinations, which were scheduled to be implemented earlier this month.
In its respective statements, Vodafone attributed the change in activation date to the need for further testing, while EE cited the existence of technical obstacles.
Vodafone plans to start charging roaming within the EU at the end of this month, and EE has set a new date for March 3.
Under the plans unveiled in August 2021, Vodafone intends to impose an additional charge of at least £1 per day on users roaming within the EU from today 6 January. It noted that the extra time would make it possible to "further test to ensure the best possible experience for customers."
The EE announced in June 2021 that it would charge a £2 per day fee for the use of the tariff allowance across the EU, a change that would have taken effect this month. In addition to citing technical delays, it provides limited details on the delay. This fee does not apply to monthly paying customers whose package starts before July 7, 2021.
Neither carrier intends to charge roaming charges to users traveling to the Republic of Ireland.
Rival UK 3 also plans to recharg, although it won't start until May, while Virgin Media O2 has yet to announce any additional fees, but has set a reasonable usage cap.
Prior to britain's exit from the EU, all four operators in the UK were legally bound to provide free roaming services to users traveling within the EU. (C114 Jiang Junmu)