Virgin Media O2 has responded to the BT/EE convergence world and has now launched its first ever joint product.
The product which has been launched under the name Volt, combines Virgin Media broadband and entertainment with O2’s mobile coverage.
New and existing customers who subscribe to both brands will now qualify for double broadband speed and mobile data allowance as well as discounts on connected devices.
The launch of Volt comes just five months after Virgin Media and O2 completed its merger.
“The launch of converged services in less than 150 days as a business is a huge milestone moment and demonstrates the momentum we have behind our commitment to supercharge connectivity across the UK. This is just the start.” said Jeff Dodds, Chief Operating Officer at Virgin Media O2.
Ernest Doku, telecoms expert at Uswitch.com said the Volt product is the first step in rewarding customers for using multiple broadband, TV and mobile offerings from the merged businesses.
“Doubling customers’ mobile data allowances and bumping them up to the next tier of broadband speeds is a great statement of intent, and will give existing users an immediate boost. Virgin Media O2 hopes to challenge the BT and EE partnership, which already offers monthly discounts to users who link their account.
“People should generally be mindful of getting their broadband and mobiles deals from a sole supplier, as they may be able to get better mobile coverage or a more stable broadband connection from different providers. However, if you are already using Virgin Media O2 for one of your services, switching to both could both save you money and improve your connections.”
The move has been hailed as logical by CCS Insight consumer and connectivity director Kester Mann.
“Volt is a logical first step in bringing together the Virgin Media and O2 brands. It will help the joint venture win new customers and improve loyalty among existing subscribers.
“Convergence is the centrepiece of Virgin Media O2’s strategy under new CEO Lutz Schuler and I expect to see further deals combining its extensive broadband, mobile and TV assets in the months ahead.”
