EE is to launch a shared package for its LTE service which enables subscribers to connect up to five devices to a single tariff plan from 17 July. The UK’s 4G pioneer also talked up a pay-as-you-go tariff for the high-speed service, which will debut on the same date. It said the two tariffs are the first of their kind in the UK market. Both have been announced previously by the operator.

In addition, EE will launch an NFC-based service called Cash on Tap, in partnership with MasterCard, which enables users equipped with certain Android smartphones to make purchases in retail outlets.That will also launch on 17 July.

As part of the announcement, the operator confirmed plans (also announced previously) for double-speed LTE in 12 cities. The earlier announcement had said ten cities but now Derby and Nottingham have been added. Current average speeds will double to 24-30Mb/s from 4 July.

The new shared plans mean subscribers can add up to five devices from friends and family, as well as their own tablet or laptop, to a single LTE tariff. An existing handset can be added to the tariff from £12 per month on a SIM-only deal, or £5 per month for a tablet which is on a SIM-only deal.

The PAYG packages start from £15 for a data SIM which comes preloaded with 2GB of mobile data for 30 days. Or subscribers can choose the same allowance on a dongle for £50 or a mobile Wi-Fi deal for £70. Top-ups costs £3 for 500MB, up to a maximum of £30 for 10GB.

Cash on Tap enables transactions to be made by EE subscribers at 230,000 UK outlets including McDonald’s, Boots and Greggs. The service is initially available on three NFC-enabled Android handsets – Samsung Galaxy S4, Sony Xperia SP and Samsung Galaxy S3 LTE – with more to follow “in the coming months”. Subscribers also need to download an app to obtain the payments service. EE is offering £10 in credit in a bid to kickstart take-up.

Later this summer, EE will also launch the Bright Box 2, a wireless router for fibre customers which is designed to offer improved Wi-Fi coverage when a subscriber moves around, as well as plug-and-play set up.