Under the new rules the maximum charge for outgoing calls, excluding VAT, will be 19 cents per minute, six cents for outgoing text messages and 20 cents for a MB download of data.
However, the new caps only apply when you use a mobile within the EU – and not for the whole of Europe. If you’re travelling further afield the most crucial thing is to turn off data roaming on your phone or tablet.
Look up your model on the internet before you travel to find out how to do this. It will stop the automatic downloads of updates, which can cause a huge bill.
Other changes from July 1st include:
Vests
Drivers must carry a high visibility vest for every occupant of their car from July 1st. The regulation applies to all cars, trucks and buses registered in Germany, but not to motorcycles.
Drivers may be asked to show their vest during an inspection.
Pensions
From July 1st pensions will increase by 1.67 percent in the states of the former West Germany and 2.53 percent in the former East German states. The increase is different in the former East to the West as wages have risen by more in the East.
Mothers and fathers whose children were born before 1992 are also getting better pensions from July 1st.
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