NZ Consumers Pay More for iPhone 5 Contracts

NZ Consumers Pay More for iPhone 5 Contracts

24 October, 2012 – A new price comparison analysis released today reveals New Zealand consumers are lumbered with some of the most expensive iPhone 5 service plans in the global smartphone marketplace.

Leading comparison website WhistleOut, analysed plans from New Zealand, the USA, Australia and the UK and converted the results into NZ dollars. The research reveals that New Zealanders are often paying much more than international users for the iPhone 5 on contracts.

WhistleOut’s Director, Cameron Craig, said, “Our data shows that NZ entry level iPhone 5 contracts are significantly higher than those available in both Australia and the UK. NZ consumers will pay a minimum of NZ$1,865 for the cheapest entry level Telecom NZ Smartphone $39 plan over 24 months, while Aussies on a Virgin Mobile Australia plan pay just NZ$1,432 and Brits on T-Mobile pay only NZ$1,574.”

When comparing iPhone 5 plans with a minimum of 400 minutes of call-time, WhistleOut’s analysis showed NZ consumers fared even worse.

“When comparing iPhone 5 plans with a minimum of 400 minutes talk-time per month, the UK carrier O2 was revealed as the leader with a contract cost of NZ$1,173, more than double the offer from Vodafone NZ at $2,681. Across the pond, Vodafone in Australia only charges NZ$1,828, which is NZ$852 cheaper than the equivalent NZ offering from the same brand,” continued Cameron.

WhistleOut also looked at the needs of big data users and compared the prices of each country’s most expensive iPhone 5 plans with a minimum of 4GB of data per month.

“To get a minimum of 4GB data per month and an iPhone 5, this will cost NZ$1,754 in the UK compared to a whopping $3,840 in NZ for 4GB per month, which is accessed by combining the $140 per month Vodafone NZ smartphone plan with a 1GB bolt-on package for an extra $20 per month. Unlimited data options are available in the US and UK for iPhone plans, however restrictions on tethering access can apply. Unfortunately New Zealanders and Australians are yet to enjoy an unlimited data plan offer in the mobile market, yet an iPhone 5 plan with 4GB of data is still considerably cheaper in Australia (NZ$1,128) than in New Zealand,” Cameron said.

The iPhone 5 is the first 4G capable iPhone. In comparing 4G / LTE networks, the USA has the widest spread of 4G coverage, with Australia coming in second. 4G is also making a showing in the UK market, but has only just begun its rollout whilst 4G is not yet available in NZ for the iPhone 5.

The iPhone 5 boasts many improvements over the previous model: the iPhone 4S. Upgrades include a larger 4-inch display, a more powerful processor and graphics unit, updates to the camera and, as previously highlighted, lightning-fast 4G internet speeds in countries supporting 4G. 4G will not be initially available to NZ users.

WhistleOut’s research was extracted from its recently launched mobile phone plan comparison site for consumers in NZ at whistleout.co.nz.

To review all current iPhone 5 plans and pricing in greater detail by country visit:

NZ: iPhone 5 NZ Plans http://www.whistleout.co.NZ/MobilePhones/iPhone-Plans

Other country sites:

Australia: http://www.whistleout.com.au/MobilePhones/iPhone-Plans
UK: http://www.whistleout.co.uk/MobilePhones/iPhone-Deals
USA: http://www.whistleout.com/CellPhones/iPhone-Deals

About WhistleOut

WhistleOut is one of Australia’s leading comparison websites, offering consumers comparison technology to help them make good decisions before purchasing service contracts. WhistleOut’s comparison technology is featured on 240 websites with 21 partners, including leading media companies. To find a tailored comparison for you visit: www.whistleout.co.nz

ENDS

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