Orange iPhone 3GS Data Limitations Looking Draconian

Color us confused again.  While Orange claimed that in offering the iPhone 3GS in the UK in opposition to hitherto-exclusive rival O2 they'd "increase value" to buyers, some bizarre limitations in the terms & conditions have us wondering whether life really was better with O2.  As we pointed out earlier this week, Orange define "unlimited data" as 750MB; however there's also a potentially more limiting cap on what streaming and IM services – such as internet radio and Facebook messaging – can be used.

"Not to be used for other activities (eg using your handset as a modem, non-Orange internet based streaming services, voice or video over the internet, instant messaging, peer to peer file sharing, non-Orange internet based video). Should such use be detected notice may be given and Network protection controls applied to all services which Orange does not believe constitutes mobile browsing." Orange T&Cs

The policy specifies that non-Orange streaming, VoIP, video-over-IP, IM, P2P and instant video are not permitted, which potentially means that services like Spotify, Ustream and Facebook messaging will not be allowed.  As for the 750MB data cap, Orange have confirmed it applies not only to their 3G network but – as a separate, also 750MB allowance – to the BT Openzone WiFi access every subscriber gets.  Orange have said that they'll make sure the policies are "reviewed" to see whether they're at the right level.

[via PC Advisor]