What is it?
Mobile internet (or the mobile web) refers to accessing the internet from your mobile phone. But with all the different phones available, as well as the internet plans and data packs on offer, it seems like there is a lot more to it.
Because the screen on a handset is much smaller than a computer screen, many popular websites have a special version for viewing on a mobile phone. Many phones also have ‘Apps’ (software applications) which provide you with a shortcut to performing the same task a number of times; for instance, accessing your bank account from an iPhone.
Why use mobile internet?
Mobile internet is convenient and allows you to access the web whenever, wherever. If you are on the right plan or data pack, mobile internet is also relatively cheap. Whether it’s for work or pleasure, mobile internet will ensure you are up to date with information online.
Some of the most popular ways Australians are using mobile internet are:
• Facebook and Twitter
• News and Weather
• Looking up information such as local restaurants, supermarkets or nearby public transport.
• Online banking
• Email
• Movie/public transport timetables
Where can I use mobile internet?
To use mobile internet, you will need to have mobile coverage. This can depend on whether you’re in a regional or metro area. When you are outside of areas with coverage, you may still be able to access the internet via national roaming, but this can be expensive. Check with your provider to see what your roaming rates are.
If you would like to use mobile internet overseas, this may be available as well, depending on your provider and where you are travelling to. Check with your provider to make sure that you have global roaming switched on, and be aware of the charges before you leave – they can be expensive. Sometimes very expensive.
Who can provide me with mobile internet?
Your mobile telecommunications company will be able to provide you with mobile internet. Most new handset models will support mobile internet access.
Some plans have included data, while others give you the option to purchase ‘mobile data packs.’ Which one you choose depends on your internet usage.
How much does it cost to use data on my phone?
This depends on the data pack or plan that you are on, and how much you use. There are many internet or iPhone plans available that include large amounts of data, and some providers such as 3 or Optus have data packs available for an additional cost each month. Data packs are generally flexible, and you can opt-out or change packs from month-to-month.
Be aware that even if you are not on a data plan or data pack, you may still be able to access the internet from your phone, but the charges will not be cheap. If you plan on using the data on your phone more often, opt for a plan that includes data.
How much data does it use?
This can depend on how often you surf the net on your phone, and what you are using it for. Smartphones tend to use more data, as they continually update the phone with information from the web. If you are purchasing a smartphone (such as an iPhone or BlackBerry) outright, make sure that you are on a plan that includes data, or things could get very expensive!
To get an idea of how much you use:
A text-only email downloads between 1-10 kb.
A YouTube clip downloads about 1024 kb every two minutes.