Airtime
The connectivity service: the calls, messages and mobile data governed by the plan.
REFERENCE / MOBILE VOCABULARY
A few unfamiliar words.
Plain explanations.
Use this searchable glossary as a starting point, then check the wording in the actual provider document.
20 terms
APN
Access Point Name. A mobile-data configuration setting; use the official instructions for the exact service.
Bill cap
A control on specified extra spending. Exclusions and timing must be checked with the provider.
Contract summary
The concise information supplied about an agreement. Keep the version associated with your own service.
Data rollover
A feature that carries qualifying unused data forward, subject to the product’s expiry and usage rules.
eSIM
A digital subscription profile installed on supported device hardware, rather than a removable SIM card.
Fair use
Conditions controlling how an allowance or feature may be used. Read the actual policy rather than the label alone.
Host network
The underlying network infrastructure used by another brand. It does not determine every retail feature.
International calling
Calling a number in another country. This is distinct from using the phone while physically abroad.
Minimum term
The minimum commitment attached to the relevant agreement. It can differ from the device repayment period.
MVNO
Mobile Virtual Network Operator: a service using another operator’s radio infrastructure with its own retail arrangements.
PAC
Porting Authorisation Code, used when transferring a mobile number between providers.
PAYG
Pay As You Go. This can involve credit or renewable bundles; inspect the specific product.
Roaming
Using a mobile service outside its home country, subject to the provider’s destination and allowance rules.
SIM-only
A connectivity arrangement for a device you already have. It can still contain a minimum commitment.
STAC
Service Termination Authorisation Code, used for switching without retaining the old number.
Tethering
Sharing mobile data with another device. Allowance and fair-use conditions may apply.
VoLTE
Voice over LTE, commonly called 4G calling. Support depends on the handset, configuration and service.
Wi-Fi calling
A supported way to make mobile calls over suitable Wi-Fi. Device, account and location conditions apply.
5G
A mobile network generation. Availability does not guarantee a particular indoor speed or reliability.