Globe Telecom, a major telecommunications provider in the Philippines, has introduced postpaid plans for the iPhone 5S and iPhone 5C, targeting consumers seeking bundled device and service packages. These plans are structured under Globe’s mySUPERPLAN framework, which includes monthly fees, device cashouts, data allowances, and additional perks. The Plan 999 option, in particular, has been highlighted for its balance of affordability and features, appealing to users interested in smartphone access with data and communication benefits. This article examines the details of the Plan 999 offering, including its pricing, inclusions, and associated freebies, based on information from official announcements and promotional materials. The focus is on factual presentation to inform U.S. consumers about similar international mobile package structures, though the specifics pertain to the Philippine market.
Plan 999 Pricing and Structure
The Plan 999 is one of the entry-level postpaid options for the iPhone 5S under Globe’s mySUPERPLAN. According to official details, the monthly fee for this plan is Php 999. To acquire the iPhone 5S, subscribers are required to pay an additional monthly cashout of Php 800 over a 24-month contract period. This brings the total monthly cost to Php 1,799 for the device and service bundle.
For comparison, the iPhone 5C is available under a similar structure at Plan 999 with a monthly cashout of Php 800, resulting in a total of Php 1,799 per month. The iPhone 5S, however, is positioned as a higher-tier device, with an alternative option at Plan 1799 featuring a lower cashout of Php 400 per month, totaling Php 2,199 monthly. These pricing details are consistent across multiple sources, including promotional announcements and plan breakdowns.
The contract lock-in period for all these plans is 24 months, which is standard for postpaid agreements. Subscribers must commit to this duration to benefit from the device subsidy and included features. Early termination may incur penalties, though specific terms are not detailed in the available data.
Data and Connectivity Features
A key highlight of the Plan 999 is its data allocation. Subscribers receive 5GB of data per month, as specified in the plan details for the iPhone 5S. This allowance is designed to support mobile browsing, app usage, and other data-intensive activities. For users with higher data needs, Globe offers upgraded plans such as Plan 1299 with 8GB or Plan 1499 with more substantial allocations.
In addition to the standard data, the Plan 999 includes unlimited LTE (Long-Term Evolution) surfing. LTE is Globe’s high-speed mobile network technology, providing faster internet access compared to older standards like 3G. This unlimited LTE feature ensures that subscribers can browse the web, stream media, and download content without worrying about overage charges, although fair usage policies may apply to prevent network abuse.
Beyond data, the plan incorporates communication benefits. It includes a call and text freebie, though the exact volume is not fully specified in all sources. One reference notes a “call and text freebie” as part of the perks, while another details that Plan 999 provides unlimited mobile surfing and one freebie from options A, C, or E. These freebies likely refer to add-ons like unlimited calls to Globe/TM numbers or consumable balances for calls and texts to other networks. For international context, U.S. consumers might compare this to unlimited talk and text bundles on American carriers, but here the focus is on Philippine-specific inclusions.
Unlimited calls and texts to Globe and TM (Touch Mobile) numbers are available in higher-tier plans under the iPhone Forever program, such as Plan 2999. For Plan 999, the inclusions appear more limited, emphasizing data over extensive voice services.
Freebies and Additional Perks
Globe’s plans often include promotional freebies to enhance value, and the Plan 999 is no exception. According to official announcements, subscribers to the iPhone 5S Plan 999 receive 1GB of PowerSurf LTE as a freebie. PowerSurf is Globe’s data top-up service, allowing users to purchase additional data in small increments; this 1GB bonus provides extra browsing capacity beyond the base 5GB allocation.
Other potential freebies tied to the mySUPERPLAN structure include options for freebies from categories A, C, or E, which could encompass items like mobile protection, app subscriptions, or device accessories. However, the specific details for Plan 999 are not comprehensively listed, and sources vary in their descriptions. For instance, one announcement mentions that higher plans like Plan 1799 and 2499 include more consumable data and freebies, while Plan 3799 offers a P3799 consumable balance.
A notable promotional perk across Globe’s iPhone plans is the free four-month mobile phone protection under Globe Gadget Care. This covers devices from accidental damage, such as drops or spills, providing peace of mind for new iPhone owners. While this is mentioned in the context of iPhone 5 plans generally, it is likely applicable to Plan 999 subscribers as part of the standard offering.
Additionally, Globe offers flexible payment terms for the monthly cashout. Partner credit cardholders can avail of 0% installment options at 3, 6, 12, or 24 months, making the upfront cost more manageable. For existing Globe postpaid subscribers, the “Reset” program allows account renewal or extension to obtain the device at a discounted rate, though the exact discount amount is not specified.
Another innovative feature is the Globe iPhone Forever upgrade plan, which is available as an add-on or alternative. This program enables subscribers to swap their iPhone for a new model every year, either for free or with a one-time cashout. For Plan 999 participants, upgrading to iPhone Forever might involve moving to a higher plan tier, such as Plan 1599, which includes a free iPhone 5C 16GB and 1GB PowerSurf LTE. Details on integration with Plan 999 are not explicitly provided, but the program underscores Globe’s focus on device upgrades.
In terms of retail experience, subscribers can visit Globe Business Centers to inquire about plans and receive personalized assistance. The process involves signing up for postpaid service, selecting the desired plan, and completing necessary documentation, such as proof of identity and income.
Eligibility and Sign-Up Process
Eligibility for the Plan 999 requires being a Globe subscriber or new customer in the Philippines. No specific credit score or income requirements are detailed in the sources, but standard postpaid practices likely apply, including credit checks for device financing. U.S. consumers can draw parallels to carrier plans that require similar verifications.
To sign up, interested parties can visit a Globe Business Center or use online channels if available. The order page mentioned in some sources allows for initial inquiries, but physical visit is recommended for full details. The process includes selecting the iPhone 5S model (e.g., 16GB), confirming the 24-month contract, and opting for any freebies or add-ons.
For the iPhone Forever program, subscribers can trade in their old phones for a free iPhone or with a cashout, depending on the plan selected. This trade-in option is available for new and existing subscribers, with details varying by plan level.
It is important to note that all these offerings are specific to Globe’s network in the Philippines. International roaming or U.S. compatibility is not addressed, and consumers outside the Philippines would not be eligible.
Comparative Analysis with Other Plans
To provide context, the Plan 999 for iPhone 5S sits in the mid-range of Globe’s offerings. Lower plans like Plan 499 for iPhone 5C 16GB require a Php 850 monthly cashout and provide only 300MB LTE plus limited calls/SMS, making it suitable for light users. In contrast, Plan 999 offers more data (5GB) and unlimited LTE, justifying the higher fee.
Higher plans under the iPhone Forever structure include Plan 1599 (free iPhone 5C 16GB, 1GB PowerSurf), Plan 1999 (free iPhone 5S 16GB, 1GB PowerSurf), and Plan 2999 (free iPhone 5S 16GB, unlimited LTE, calls/texts to Globe/TM). These provide greater value for heavy users but at increased monthly costs.
For the latest iPhone models, such as iPhone 13 series, Globe’s GPLANS (e.g., GPLAN599 at Php 599 monthly with 2GB data) offer updated pricing with device down payments ranging from Php 25,200 to Php 88,800 depending on storage and model. However, these are separate from the iPhone 5S era plans discussed here.
Potential Limitations and Considerations
While the Plan 999 presents attractive features, consumers should be aware of potential limitations. The unlimited LTE may be subject to fair usage policies, which could throttle speeds after certain thresholds. Data allowances are fixed at 5GB, which might be insufficient for heavy streaming or downloads without additional top-ups.
The freebies, while beneficial, are not always customizable for lower plans, and some perks like unlimited all-net calls/texts are reserved for higher tiers. The 24-month contract locks users in, and device ownership transfers only after the term ends, similar to U.S. lease-to-own programs.
No information is provided on international compatibility or 5G support, as these plans predate 5G networks. For U.S. consumers evaluating global mobile packages, this highlights the importance of checking network bands and roaming fees.
Conclusion
The Globe Plan 999 for the iPhone 5S offers a structured postpaid package with a monthly fee of Php 999 plus Php 800 cashout, delivering 5GB of data, unlimited LTE surfing, and freebies such as 1GB PowerSurf and four months of device protection. It appeals to budget-conscious users seeking reliable connectivity and iPhone access, with upgrade options via iPhone Forever. While tailored to the Philippine market, it exemplifies carrier bundling strategies that U.S. consumers might encounter. For the most current details, visiting official Globe channels is recommended, as offerings evolve over time.