Virgin Mobile on Thursday announced a new $50 Totally Unlimited Calling plan that would give subscribers unlimited and roaming-free calling throughout the USA. Virgin spokespeople are confirming the move comes in response to similar offers from competitors, including T-Mobile and Boost Mobile. Other contract-free providers, including MetroPCS and Leap, also offer unlimited plans that range from $35 to $50, though they are only offered in certain specific markets.

Similar to deals for automakers like Hyundai, subscribers who opt for the unlimited plan may also qualify for a Pink Slip Protection unemployment assistance program that would effectively cover three months' worth of fees at no charge if a subscriber loses his or her job. The Totally Unlimited Calling plan will go into effect on April 15th, and subscribers can add unlimited text and messaging to the plan for $10 per month.

At the same time, Virgin has introduced a new messaging plan, Texter's Delight, which includes unlimited text, picture, IM, e-mail and video messaging for $20 per month. A variation caps the messages at 1,000 but is priced at $15. Subscribers can still talk on their handsets, with minutes priced at $0.10.

Before this announcement, Virgin's unlimited national plan was priced at $80 per month. Those who currently pay the higher rate will need to contract Virgin on or after April 15th to switch to the lower rate.