Virgin Mobile finally shutting the doors on post-paid, remnants of Helio gone forever

A few years ago, Helio, a mobile virtual network operator, burst onto the cell phone scene with some pretty cool handsets and a clever ad campaign. We’re talking the MySpace glory days here, where the devices and carrier were heavily advertised. Sadly, Helio lost loads and loads of cash and was at risk of completely shutting down until Virgin Mobile, a pre-paid carrier, picked it up.

Fast forward a bit later and Helio was completely absorbed and it comprised Virgin Mobile’s post-paid service. Then things became more tricky as Virgin Mobile was acquired by Sprint. This series of events has made Virgin Mobile’s post-paid service nothing more than an afterthought, so the last remnants of Helio will forever be gone.

Unfortunately, Virgin Mobile’s post-paid customers won’t be automatically migrated to Sprint. MobileCrunch posted a response from Virgin Mobile USA, which is exactly the same note we got when we reached out to VM, highlighting the details of the transition:

No customer will be automatically migrated to Sprint’s postpaid service. However, Sprint has created a special offer for our customers.

Current postpaid customers are being given $50 towards the purchase of a Sprint postpaid handset with a new two-year agreement. This credit is in addition to any applicable rebates that may apply. Postpaid customers moving from Virgin Mobile to Sprint will also receive $150 off of handsets as part of Sprint’s standing new customer offer. Activation fees will also be waived.

It’s a nice incentive for Virgin Mobile post-paid customers to join Sprint, especially if they’re happy with their current coverage. If you find yourself in this boat, you’ll have until May 25 to make your decision! Otherwise, you’ll be stuck in mobile limbo.