out of contract renewal - how to get information to make an informed choice

[gnome]

Not sure this is the correct place to ask, could a moderator move it if neccessary.

I have an ancient tv package known as Mix TV but the new advertising uses different names, Big Bundle and Bigger Combo Bundle.

Is there a list somewhere that allows me to see what the difference is.

Also, the Big Bundle and Bigger Combo Bundle include a weekend chatter plan, what is this ? does it mean I have to pay another few hundred quid a year for a landline that I don't need or use ?

Is there anywhere that allows me to get actual solid, reliable, factual information about stuff rather than the PR, Advertising bumph on the website ?

Is there anyway to NOT have the landline (I am on fibre so I don't even have a phone line anymore) ?

All I want is cold fact about what is offered so I can make an informed choice.

Thanks

[goslow]

If you are viewing this page

https://www.virginmedia.com/tv

to see the Big Bundle and Bigger Combo Bundle, you have to use the 'Find out more' link to expand the package details and then from the expanded TV section choose the 'See all channels' link to expand to see the available channels

'Weekend chatter' is the default package which gives inclusive calls at weekends. Expand the link 'See call plan details and charges' for more info.

VM's 'bundle' pricing means you will might get lower pricing during the minimum term period by including a landline. The landline is provided via a telephone socket on the back of the VM hub. I believe it is only the newest XGS-PON fibre connections that cannot have a landline phone in the package.

Unfortunately there is a lot of info to plough through and the names are deliberately designed to be confusing and similar-sounding to other/previous package names.

Rather than starting with what VM is offering (which can be confusing) what are the services you actually want?

If you really just want broadband and TV, you might also consider looking at other providers to build your own collection of services rather than try to get a bundle from VM that you may not use to its maximum.

[japitts]

Plenty can be said here...

1; TV comes in two flavours these days - entry-level, broadly Freeview-equivalent, Mixit. And top-tier Mega - familiarise yourself with the channel guide at the bottom of https://www.virginmedia.com/virgin-tv-edit/tips-and-tricks/virgin-tv-channel-guide 

For Mega, read Maxit but remove the TNT Sports channels.

2: Big Bundle, Bigger Combo etc - these are marketing names for a combination of Mixit/Mega + landline telephone + broadband + optional O2 mobile. So you need to check which tier you are with each element.

3: VM operate a multi-bundle discounting system where additional services reduce the per-unit cost of other services. Especially with landlines, it often makes the "with" bundle cheaper than the "without". Unless the mere act of having a landline installed is causing you inconvenience, bear this in mind.

4: A "be aware". When you do come to negotiate a new bundle, CS agents may well try to sell you a "TV360 upgrade". You'd originally posted in the TiVo forum, so from the basics..

TiVo & V6 boxes both run TiVo-software. TV360 is a completely different TV software platform, similar to Apple being completely different to Android. V6 & TV360 both run the same hardware, but a V6 runs the same familiar TiVo software, the TV360 is totally different. Whatever contract bundle you end up with, is available on either a V6 or a TV360 unless it includes Disney+ or Paramount+ subscriptions.

[Zach_R]

Hi @gnome,

Thank you for your post and welcome back to our community forums. We're here to help.

I'm sorry to hear you're having some confusion regarding bundles. If you want to know what channels are specifically including in each respective TV package, you can refer to our Channel Guide which lists them in full.

As for bundles, they'll be listed in full via the My Virgin Media online account when you attempt to make an online upgrade, or a member of the team can discuss what's included with you when you speak with them. Is there any specific bundle you're looking at that you'd like more clarity on?

Thanks,
 

[gnome]

Thank you all for the useful information.

I have had a look at the channel lists and they all seem to be a pdf, so an absolute faff to compare, but I will get there.

I think I want to keep the Tivo or similar as I record a program when I see it is on, I haven't got the hang of streaming as I don't usually know what program I am looking for in order to stream it, and the TV has access to all the streaming services, so I am wondering if I actually need Virginmedia TV, I might consider getting a modern equivalent of a video recorder for recording TV.

I don't understand why I need a telephone line to get the TV offering. I could understand needing one back in the 90s when I had dial up and ADSL but not for TV, which I assume is delivered down the fibre.

Once again, thank you for all the pointers and information, and it seems I have to register a non virginmedia email to my account in order to change the telephone password the customer service people ask for when I talk to them.

Well, it seems spending a wet sunday at the computer is needed.

[Gareth_L]

Hello gnome.

Thanks for replying.

Regarding the need for a landline, you're very welcome to remove this however the options for new deals may not be as great and can work out more expensive. 

Basically the more services a customer has the better scope we have for bundles.

Sadly from here we're unable to help with package changes, however if you have a Facebook or X account you can reach out to us on the options below.

If you are unsure of the telephone password we can ask alternative security questions. 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/virginmedia/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/virginmedia

Please keep us posted how you get on.

Gareth_L