Converting texts to picture messages
In some cases, operating systems and phones will automatically convert a text into a picture message. When this happens, you’ll be charged our standard UK picture message rate, even when you’ve got enough of your allowance left. This is something that can happen on any network and is beyond our control.
On some devices you'll notice the character count changing from numbers to a file size when you:
- Include a non-standard smiley or symbol such as an emoticon or emoji
- Send a group text
- Exceed the character limit (with some devices this can be 160 characters, for others it can be higher)
- Add text to the subject field
Older phones like the Samsung Galaxy S1, S2, S3 and S4, Galaxy Note 1, 2 and 3, and Galaxy Ace will change a text into a picture message if it includes certain smileys or symbols. If you use a downloadable third-party keyboard or emoticon and emoji packs, they’ll also change a text into a picture message when you add them.
How can I switch this off?
If you’ve got a Samsung Galaxy S1, S2, S3 or S4, Galaxy Note 1, 2 or 3 or Galaxy Ace, you can switch the function off with a few simple steps:
- Go to Messaging > Settings > Text Messages > Input mode > choose Unicode instead of Automatic
If you're having this issue with a different device, you can check its user guide or contact the manufacturer to find out how to switch this function off.
Charges to non-geographic numbers
**The cost of calling 084, 087, 09 and 118 numbers is split into two parts:
- The access charge – this is the cost of connecting your call to our network, charged in pence per minute
- The service charge – this is the remainder of the cost of the call. The service charge is decided by the organisation you call, who must communicate it clearly
By adding together our standard access charge and the service charge, you'll know exactly how much the call will cost.
Text short codes
Texts to short codes aren’t included in our bundles and don’t count as a normal text message. So check any promotional material carefully to find out exactly how much it’ll cost you to send a text to a short code.
Some devices automatically show a warning message stating that you may be charged for using a service. If you’ve previously ticked a box to say that you don’t want to see this message again, you may not be alerted to any charges for sending a text to a short code.
Check the Payforit website for more information.
