When did Lycamobile switch to EE?
Despite Lycamobile starting the switch around 21st June 2023, they only announced their new partnership with BT Wholesale via press release on 27th June.
In it, they confirmed that the new deal would give customers full access to EE’s 4G and 5G networks. Available in nearly every UK town and city, EE’s 5G network reportedly covers more than 68% of the population, with that number rising to 99% for 4G.
The change means Lycamobile’s longstanding relationship with O2 - whose network they used - has come to an end. This is likely to have an impact on customers who may only have chosen Lycamobile because they were using O2.
Why did Lycamobile change networks?
The EE network switch is all part of a wider strategy by Lycamobile to build on its plans for delivering reliable yet cost-effective mobile communications.
As well as the connectivity advantages that come with using EE, Lycamobile customers should reportedly see their mobile experiences improve through future access to services like Wi-Fi calling.
At ASDA mobile, we also offer Wi-Fi and 4G calling as a free feature when you join our network. You won't have to pay anything extra to use it.*
*Standard data rates apply
How many customers are affected?
Currently, Lycamobile has over 16 million customers worldwide.
In the UK, all Lycamobile customers can expect to be automatically switched from the O2 network over to EE. If you’re still on the O2 side, this will change in due course.
Unhappy about the change? Here’s what you can do
If you're unhappy about Lycamobile switching from O2 to the EE network, you should be able to change providers without paying a penalty fee.
This depends on your current Lycamobile plan:
Pay As You Go or 30-day rolling contract
You can switch to a new provider penalty-free at any time.
If you’re on a rolling contract, you’ll need to cancel your recurring payments or risk being charged for a service you no longer use.
Cancel your contract online via your 'My Lycamobile' account. Alternatively, dial *190# and press 1 to confirm the cancellation.
If you’re a Pay As You Go customer, simply run down your credit and turn off 'auto top up' (if you use it). Then, simply stop using the SIM or port it to your new mobile provider.
Remember, switching partway through a 30-day contract or Pay As You Go bundle means you'll lose any unused days and won't get a refund.
Three-, six- or 12-month plan
If you switch before your prepaid period finishes, you’ll be unlikely to get a refund. It may make more sense to stick with your existing plan until it runs out.
However, Ofcom’s mobile coverage obligations do state that if you’re unhappy with your service from Lycamobile, you should follow their complaints procedure in the first instance. This only applies if your phone stops working as a result of the switch and connectivity isn’t restored within a reasonable time.
If the problem remains unresolved after eight weeks, you should contact the Communication Ombudsman to complain and ask for advice.
How might the change affect you?
Although EE does have a positive track record when it comes to mobile service, you may have chosen Lycamobile specifically because it used O2’s network.
Depending on where you live, your network connectivity may be impacted and affect your day-to-day usage.
If this applies to you, then switching mobile providers could be the answer.
Why choose Asda mobile?
If you’re thinking of leaving Lycamobile, ASDA mobile are a great alternative, offering flexible, affordable SIM only deals and Pay As You Go bundles that can be adjusted each month depending on your circumstances.
You can port into ASDA mobile by:
1. Requesting a PAC code
Text 'PAC' to 65075 (free of charge). You'll be sent your code as well as full details of any remaining credit or account charges.
Alternatively, you can call Lycamobile directly and ask for your PAC code.
2. Activating your new SIM
Simply put your new SIM into your phone and register or login to your ASDA mobile free online account.
3. Transferring your old number
On ‘My Account’, go to ‘My profile’ and scroll down to ‘transferring your number’. You’ll need to have your PAC code from Lycamobile ready to do this.
4. Swapping your SIM card
Once you've lost signal on your phone, just insert your new ASDA mobile SIM card.
Find out more about transferring your number to ASDA mobile.
We also have a wide range of Unlimited data SIMs, which are great if you use your mobile a lot while out and about.
All our plans include:
● Duration for one calendar month (you can renew, set to recur, or even cancel if you want - although we’re not sure why you would!)
● 5G speeds (lightning-fast data speeds available on compatible devices; grab a 5G data SIM from just £10 a month!)
● UK-wide coverage (99% UK population coverage with a fast, reliable network powered by Vodafone)
Check out great value monthly bundles for every budget with ASDA mobile!
