When Telecom launched XT in May, Vodafone was quick to point out the upgraded networks’ plans’ lacked $10 txt. So was Vodafone’s virtual network partner Black+White, which staged a publicity-stunt funeral procession for the plan.

$10 all-you-can-eat txt had been a hit for Telecom’s old CDMA network, helping keep customers loyal while Vodafone launched far flashier 3G services.

“As a fellow Brit I’m ashamed that Paul and Russ would come down here and take the salaries that they do, then do something as stupid as abolishing $10 txt,” says Black+White boss Jonathan Eele, referring to the emigration choices and XT pricing executed by Telecom chief executive Paul Reynolds and chief financial officer Russ Houlden. “It’s embarrassing.”

Compass Communications today launched as Vodafone’s second mobile virtual network operator, meaning New Zealand will have nine cellphone service providers by August.

Chief executive Karim Hussona says Compass is offering a SIM-card only service.

Customers can buy a Compass SIM card, insert it into any mobile phone bought for Vodafone’s 3G network, then pick from a selection of Compass monthly plans.

A scene from Telecom's XT launch at last night. A dollop of XT's $574 million budget went on a specular series of ligtening effects, which will be projected onto Auckland's Town Hall over the next four nights. The display was greated by Mike Mizrahi. Check out your correspondent's am-cam video below, too, which is dodgy than the official effort - also below - but captures the rocket effect, which was very boss.

ISP Orcon has decided to move its “purple phone” mobile network launch to August or September, waiting for the big guns to exhaust their powder.

Orcon, which is scheduled to become Vodafone’s third mobile virtual network operator after Black+White and Compass, has decided to hold off its launch - which has been billed as a couple of months away since October last year.