Going up again - Static VIP

[warrenb]

I don't mind the price rise, what does annoy me is that when the VIP package gets better (Telephone XXL) you are not automatically upgraded.

You are kept on what VIP was when you took it out. We pay the same, so surely we should get the same.

[BenMcr]

The VIP Collection with Talk Unlimited Extra costs more than than the older one with Talk Unlimited. It wasn't a no-cost change, so it's opt in if you want it.

Similiar applies when VIP with TiVo was launched - because it required an install and other changes to what versions of Talk International and Talk Mobile were included, it was an opt in for those on the older VIP packages.

Where VM can change the package without changing the terms of what you have, they do so (even if requires a little prompting first)

[warrenb]

So I pay at the moment £113.99 for VIP, looking at the VM website, VIP with Telephone XXL is £113.99.

Spot the difference.

[BenMcr]

Originally Posted by warrenb

So I pay at the moment £113.99 for VIP, looking at the VM website, VIP with Telephone XXL is £113.99.

Spot the difference.

It's quite possible that due to price changes on your current bundle, the current VIP Collection will cost around the same amount. Which means you'll be able to opt in for no additional cost.

However, the reason behind why it wasn't an automatic change is the truth - at the time it was launched, it cost more than the VIP Collection it replaced. I should have also pointed out it is new Talk Plan and not upgrade to an existing plan. Therefore it was opt in.

[warrenb]

All I ask for, is that if the cost I pay is the same as a better package, I am automatically put on the better package. I shouldn't have to opt in. VIP, means top package for everything, I would like to be notified if it is bettered, and if costs more asked if I would like it, not have to check the VM website every now and again to make sure I am getting the top package.

[BenMcr]

Originally Posted by warrenb

All I ask for, is that if the cost I pay is the same as a better package, I am automatically put on the better package. I shouldn't have to opt in. VIP, means top package for everything, I would like to be notified if it is bettered, and if costs more asked if I would like it, not have to check the VM website every now and again to make sure I am getting the top package.

Some of that is a fair point.

However, VM DO upgrade packages automatically where they can i.e. the broadband upgrades, addition of Sky HD (and before people point out that it required some complaints, yes I know it did)

But they aren't always going to do that if the changes introduce new terms on packages etc. If nothing else I'm pretty sure they wouldn't be able to do it legally without the customer's opt in agreement.

[blackthorn]

This is something I noticed as well. I`m on an old vip deal which is £114.55 and noticed that the new one which is better is cheaper. Suppose its like the energy companies who dont tell you when theres a cheaper tariff.

[qasdfdsaq]

Originally Posted by BenMcr

But they aren't always going to do that if the changes introduce new terms on packages etc. If nothing else I'm pretty sure they wouldn't be able to do it legally without the customer's opt in agreement.

The T&C's seem to explicitly allow them to do it, meaning the customer's already opted in by signing the contract.

http://store.virginmedia.com/the-leg...-services.html

H Changing this agreement

1. We and/or Virgin Media Payments may at any time improve, modify, amend or alter the terms of this agreement and/or the services and their content if:
   
   b. We decide that the services should be altered for reasons of quality of service or otherwise for the benefit of customers or, our reasonable opinion, it is necessary to do so;
   c. for security, technical or operational reasons;
   f. if the changes or additions are minor and do not affect you significantly or we wish to have all our customers on the same terms and conditions; or
   g. in all other events, where we reasonably determine that any modification to the relevant system or change in trading, operating or business practices or policies is necessary to maintain or improve the services provided to you.
   
   However, you will have the right to cancel the affected services or end this agreement if the changes are significant, as described in paragraph J3.

J Ending this agreement

1. If we and/or Virgin Media Payments:
   a) increase our charges under this agreement
   b) make significant changes to the services so the services you are entitled to receive in return for the charges you pay are significantly altered or reduced; or
   c) make significant changes to the terms and conditions of this agreement (including the other legal stuff),

Technically this seems to imply (through "significantly altered or reduced") if a service is "significantly altered" by making it a lot faster, that would entitle you to cancel your contract early without penalty. Technically.