EE Delays UK LTE SIM-Free Option After Testing Drags

UK 4G carrier EE has postponed the launch of its SIM-free plans, frustrating unlocked iPhone 5 owners in the process, after delays in the testing procedure. Originally expected to go live for new sign-ups today, the SIM-free plans will now :be delayed by a few days," EE told Coolsmartphone, pushing the launch back into early next week, though not as bad as the carrier previously warned.

In a tweet sent out last night, EE admitted that its SIM-free plans might be delayed by as much as two weeks, though failed to give any indication as to why the schedule had changed. Those exact reasons are still in short supply, with EE only blaming its testing process in general.

"The launch of SIM only plans (due Nov 9) will be delayed by a few days as a result of our comprehensive testing process over-running slightly. We know many customers are anticipating these plans and apologise for this short hold up. However they will be reassured that we are determined to offer the very best service possible" EE

However, there have been anecdotal reports across Twitter and other channels of users – whether EE subscribers, or T-Mobile UK/Orange subscribers – experiencing issues keeping a stable connection and achieving 4G/3G speeds. There's also a fair degree of rebranding confusion, with T-Mobile and Orange subscribers not understanding why the new umbrella "EE" brand is suddenly showing up on their phone.

EE's pricing for SIM-free plans is somewhat more palatable than its widely-criticized regular plans. The company offers £15 per month off of its regular contract plans, with a twelve month agreement; alternatively, there's £5 per month off for 30-day rolling contract plans.

Update: EE has given us a new version of the statement, which switches the "few days" of the first to "within the next two weeks."

"Our 4GEE SIM only plans will now be launching within the next two weeks. We know many customers are keen to get their hands on our SIM only plans and we are looking forward to offering them as soon as our testing process is complete. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause" EE