Paying for Xtra Mail? It's Time to Consider Your Options.
For many Kiwis, an Xtra email address has been a part of their online identity for decades. It's been with us through the evolution of the internet, from the days of dial-up to the fibre speeds we enjoy today. But as you may have recently discovered, the era of a free Xtra Mail account has come to an end, and Spark is now charging a monthly fee for the service.
If you've been wondering what this means for you and whether you should continue paying, you're not alone. The good news is that you have options, and moving to a new email provider might be easier and more beneficial than you think. In this post, we'll explore the changes to Xtra Mail, the alternatives available, and how The I.T. Bear can make the transition seamless for you.
What is Xtra Mail and What's Changed?
Xtra Mail has been a household name in New Zealand for a long time, but with the recent changes, Spark is now charging for the service. The current pricing is:
$5.95 per month for Spark broadband or pay monthly mobile customers.
$9.95 per month for everyone else.
For many, this is a significant change, especially for a service that has been free for so long. This new cost has prompted many to re-evaluate their reliance on their Xtra email address.
Common Scenarios: How Are You Using Your Xtra Mail?
We've talked to many people about their Xtra Mail, and a few common scenarios have emerged:
The "Digital Shoebox" User: Your Xtra inbox is a treasure trove of memories, filled with years of family photos, important conversations, and digital keepsakes. The thought of losing these is a major concern.
The "Online Life" User: You've used your Xtra address to sign up for everything from online banking and bill payments to your social media accounts and favourite online stores. The task of updating all these logins feels overwhelming.
The Small Business Owner: You've been using your Xtra email for your business for years. It's on your business cards, your website, and your customers know it. You need a professional, reliable, and cost-effective email solution without disrupting your business.
The "Just in Case" User: You have an Xtra account, but it's mostly for newsletters and junk mail. You have another primary email address, and now you're paying for an account you barely use.
Your Options: Moving Beyond Xtra Mail
If you've decided that paying for Xtra Mail isn't for you, there are some excellent alternatives available:
Free Email Providers
Services like Gmail and Outlook.com are the most popular choices for a reason. They offer:
No monthly fees: These services are free to use.
Massive storage: You'll get plenty of space for your emails and attachments.
Modern features: Enjoy user-friendly interfaces, powerful search functions, and seamless integration with other services like calendars and cloud storage.
Top-notch security: Benefit from advanced spam filtering and security features to protect you from online threats.
Custom Domain Email for Businesses
If you're a small business owner, this is the perfect opportunity to upgrade to a more professional email address. Instead of yourbusiness@xtra.co.nz, you could have you@yourbusiness.co.nz. This offers:
Professionalism: A custom domain enhances your brand's credibility.
Brand Identity: It reinforces your brand every time you send an email.
Control: You own your email address, and it's not tied to your internet provider.
Services like Google Workspace and Microsoft 365 offer affordable plans for custom domain emails, along with a suite of other business tools.
The Migration Process: What's Involved?
Moving to a new email provider involves a few key steps:
Choosing your new email home: We can help you decide on the best provider for your needs.
Migrating your data: This involves transferring all your existing emails, contacts, and calendar entries to your new account.
Updating your online accounts: We'll help you identify and update your new email address on all your important online accounts.
A smooth transition: We can set up email forwarding for a period to ensure you don't miss any important messages.
Saying goodbye to Xtra: Once everything is moved over, we'll help you cancel your Xtra Mail subscription.
How The I.T. Bear Can Help You Make the Switch
We know that the thought of moving your digital life from one place to another can be daunting. That's where The I.T. Bear comes in. With our Bear Support and expert consultations, we can take the hassle and worry out of the process.
We can help you with:
Personalised advice on the best email solution for you.
A complete migration service, ensuring all your precious data is transferred safely and securely.
Hands-on assistance with updating your online accounts.
Friendly, patient support to answer all your questions and guide you through the process.
With The I.T. Bear, you can have peace of mind knowing that your email transition is in safe hands.
Ready to Make a Change?
Paying for an email address is a new reality for Xtra users, but it doesn't have to be your only reality. Moving to a new provider can save you money, give you access to better features, and put you in control of your online identity.
If you're ready to explore your options and make a smooth switch, contact The I.T. Bear today. We're here to help you every step of the way.