Postbag 22
What do all these initials mean?
Answered 28 April 2026 · reading time about 3 minutes
“Every letter I get from my network is full of abbreviations. Can you just translate them?”
— Y.L., Ipswich
Important notice: qukbnaro is an independent reader-question blog. We are not a mobile network, and we are not affiliated with, endorsed by or connected to Three, O2, Sky Mobile, EE, Vodafone or any other provider. We do not sell SIM cards, contracts, handsets or services. Every answer is general guidance only — confirm current details with the provider's own website or app before deciding anything.
The short answerAbout twenty terms run the entire small print of British mobile. Here they all are, translated once and for all.
Switching and numbers
PACThe free code (text PAC to 65075) that carries your number to a new network within 30 days.
STACThe same mechanism (75075) when you're happy to drop the number.
PortingThe behind-the-scenes number move a code triggers, usually within a working day.
Radio and calling
4G Calling / VoLTEVoice carried over 4G — essential since 3G retired across 2024 and 2025.
Wi-Fi CallingCalls and texts over your broadband; the cure for thick-walled rooms.
Standalone 5G / 5G+5G running on its own modern core — EE leads nationally.
Re-farmingReusing old spectrum for newer technology — why coverage maps shift year to year.
Plans and billing
Fair-use ceilingThe cap hiding inside 'unlimited' abroad and inside some perks.
TetheringSharing phone data with a laptop; capped on some unlimited generations.
Split contractDevice credit and airtime billed separately, so device payments stop at repayment.
Spend capThe free, self-set wall against out-of-allowance charges.
Pounds-and-pence ruleSince January 2025, mid-contract rises must be disclosed in cash before signature.
Brands and disputes
MVNO / tenant brandAn operator renting masts rather than owning them.
Deadlock letterThe network's formal 'we're finished' — your immediate ombudsman ticket.
Communications OmbudsmanThe free referee whose ruling binds the network and never you.
7726The free number for forwarding scam texts to fraud teams.
Important notice: qukbnaro is an independent reader-question blog. We are not a mobile network, and we are not affiliated with, endorsed by or connected to Three, O2, Sky Mobile, EE, Vodafone or any other provider. We do not sell SIM cards, contracts, handsets or services. Every answer is general guidance only — confirm current details with the provider's own website or app before deciding anything.
Got a question of your own?
We answer readers, not customers. Nothing here is for sale, we can't see your account, and we will never ask for a security code.
020 3475 9516WhatsAppThis site sets one essential cookie plus anonymous visit counts — see the cookie policy.