Freeserve unveils new unmetered service

Freeserve has unveiled plans to launch a new unmetered internet access package at the start of next year, which it claims will be the cheapest unmetered service in the UK.

The company's AnyTime internet call package, which will be based on BT's wholesale Flat Rate Internet Access Call Origination (Friaco) tariff, will cost users £12.99 a month inclusive of subscription and telephone costs.

The ISP was forced to suspend sign-up to its current unmetered internet service, Unlimited Freeserve Time, in October after admitting users experienced difficulties logging on to the service. But Freeserve said with the new package, the implementation of new systems will ensure service quality.

"With today's launch of Freeserve AnyTime, we are continuing to lead the way in cutting the costs of internet use," said John Pluthero, the ISP's chief executive.

"AnyTime at £12.99 per month, is not only pounds cheaper than the competition, but comes with a dedicated IP network and enhanced service support to ensure a high-quality access service," he added.

Freeserve's announcement follows Oftel's ruling last month that BT must offer other operators its wholesale Friaco product, which will carry internet traffic on an unmetered basis from the consumer's home to the network, from 1 February 2001.

AOL UK launched the first Friaco-based flat-rate unmetered internet service in September, priced at £14.99 a month. Many ISPs said it would be impossible to launch a true unmetered service until Friaco becomes widely available.

Customers can pre-register interest for the service at www.freeserve.com/tme. Freeserve said it will then contact customers in January.

Separately, ISP LibertySurf today embarked on a television advertising campaign for its new internet access package, which is aimed at first-time users. Users will pay a one-off payment of £10 for four hours of internet access every month for a year, with no call charges.

Further use will be charged at 1p a minute, or customers can buy an additional eight hours and 20 minutes online time each month for an extra £4.

The software CD for the service is available from all Comet stores. Users will need a BT phone line.