BT returns to mobile-phone market with airtime deals

Telecoms company will not offer handsets but sim cards and subscriptions, to act as a lure for its broadband service and TV services

BT has returned to the consumer mobile market after a 13-year absence by offering 4G subscriptions with prices starting at a budget 5 a month.

Designed as a lure for BT's broadband service - the group's main moneyspinner - mobile subscriptions will come at up to half price for BT broadband customers. Mobile customers who do not take broadband will still get access to live premier league matches for free, via the BT Sport app.