This page contains many frequently asked questions and answers about mobile technology. Use the helpful topics for information relating to these general categories. If you have a question that isn't answered here and is related to mobile technology then please submit your enquiry using the main advise page.
Helpful Topics
Mobiles
Text Message
What is text messaging?
Text messaging, or SMS (Short Message Service), lets you send and receive short written messages through your phone to and from other compatible UK mobile phones.
What equipment do I need for text messaging?
To receive and send text messages you just need the right kind of phone. Most of today's phones are compatible with the service.
Can I send text messages to foreign networks?
Yes. You can text to any compatible phone on any network that allows text messaging.
Mobile e-mail
What is mobile email?
Mobile email lets friends and colleagues send email from their computers straight to your phone, and you can email anywhere in the world without having to use a PC. In fact anyone with an email account can now reach you.
Global Roaming
GLOBAL ROAMING What is 'roaming'?
This lets you make and receive calls while you're abroad by connecting them through a network in the country you're visiting. Your home network would need to have an agreement with the network you are visting in order for you to roam.
How much will it cost to use my phone abroad?
Although there is no set up or connection charge, you may be asked for a deposit. Your call charges will depend on the country you're in and while you're abroad you'll have to pay for the calls you receive as well as those you make.
How do I arrange to use my phone abroad?
You'll need to contact your network operator prior to travelling.
Do I need a special phone to use abroad?
Phone networks in different countries use different frequencies,so depending on where you're going you might need a dual band phone. Most newer phones are dual band and will automatically swap between the frequencies available. However, you may still not be able to use your phone in the USA, where some networks use 1900MHz (in which case you will need a tri-band phone)
Voicemail
What is voicemail?
Voicemail is an answering machine for your mobile. It takes a message if you're on another call, if you can't take a call, or when your phone's switched off.
How do I set up voicemail?
Voicemail is generally set up and ready to use when you buy a package. However if you are having difficulty then contact your network operator.
How do I use voicemail?
Just press and hold the voicemail key and you'll hear any new messages followed by a recorded menu of options. Read the mobile handset manual to find the voicemail key.
How do I know if I have messages?
A message or an indicator on your phone shows you've received a voicemail message.
How do I check my messages?
Just press and hold the voicemail key (read mobile handset manual to find voicemail key) on and you'll hear a recorded menu of options. Your voicemail will play any new messages and you can hear saved ones.
How do I record a personal greeting?
A personal greeting lets callers know they're through to the right person. To record your personal greeting, call your voicemail, listen to the announcement and select option for recording a personal greeting. Record your message. It's simple to do it again if you don't like it.
What are diverts?
Diverts are settings in your phone which tell it how to deal with incoming calls. You could divert all calls (or all unanswered calls) to voicemail, or you can divert calls to another number ( Unless you change your call divert settings they will divert calls to your voicemail if you are unavailable.
I can't get my voicemail, what's wrong?
- You may be in an area that has variations in coverage, or is temporarily congested.
- If you are a pre-paid customer you may not have sufficient credit.
- Your account may be suspended. If you're still having problems, call your network operator.
Mobile Technology
GPRS
What is GPRS?
GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) is a method of accelerating data transmission speeds for mobile communications. Faster connections mean information delivery speeds approaching that of PC modems. GPRS is a crucial stepping stone towards the even faster speeds of third generation (3G) of mobile services.
What can GPRS do?
It offers the potential for faster downloading and exchanging of information giving users more convenient wireless connections for data, fax and internet calls.
Do I need a new phone to use GPRS?
Yes. You'll need a GPRS-compatible device. You will be able to connect existing laptops and PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants) using plug-in GPRS data cards.
Will GPRS affect my existing mobile phone service?
No.
UMTS
What is UMTS?
UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System - otherwise referred to as 3G). UMTS is the next generation of mobile telecommunications and is the next progression from GPRS. The UMTS network builds on existing technologies and delivers combined voice, data, video and multi-media capabilities to your mobile.
What can UMTS do?
It offers even faster data speeds from GSM and GPRS, which means more convenience and efficiency for the end user when downloading data, fax or internet content.
How does UMTS work?
Like GPRS, UMTS is packet based technology. This means that during a call, data is stored up and sent as discrete 'packets' through the network as and when it is needed. This means that the network is only carrying data when it needs to. This is different to the existing GSM network where a call ties up the network resources for the whole duration of the call.
Do I need a new phone to use UMTS?
Yes, existing GSM or GPRS phones will not work with UMTS. The new phones are termed "terminals" or "devices" as they can have more functionality than just being used for voice calls. The technology is very new and initially UMTS only user equipment will be produced, but gradually equipment that can use GSM/GPRS/UMTS will be available.
Will it affect my existing mobile phone service?
No.
WAP
What Is WAP?
WAP (Wireless Application Protocol) allows mobile phones to send and receive information from the internet. On your PC you would use a browser program like Netscape or Explorer to surf the internet; on your mobile you use WAP. It's a communications standard that has been agreed by more than 200 telecommunications companies worldwide.
What does it do?
WAP is simply a way of providing interactive information services for mobile phones. A full page of a normal website wouldn't fit on your phone's small screen, but a WAPsite is designed specially for a mobile. You can do the same kind of things you would do on a website, but in a simplified, stripped-down way.
What can I use it for?
WAP technology brings a huge range of interactive information services directly to your phone - from TV and Restaurant listings to the latest financial news; from pop charts and film reviews to sports results, travel updates and even horoscopes. You can also use your WAP phone to send and receive email, to access information from your home or work computer. Very soon you'll be able to use it for shopping, banking and much more.
How easy is it to get online?
Very easy. Your WAP phone will take you straight to a WAP services home page which has a straightforward menu of key information and entertainment services. You can go to other WAPsites by simply entering their WAPsite address, and for quick access you can bookmark them and add them to your personal favourites list.
Can I access the whole of the internet?
Not yet, because you can only access those sites that have been made WAP compatible. Very soon you'll be able to do everything from hiring a car to reserving seats at the theatre, from watching your stock prices to checking ski conditions.
Won't WAP just be quickly replaced by something better?
No. WAP is here to stay. In fact it is estimated that by 2003 85% of mobile users will have a WAP phone. What will change is the way it is transmitted. Faster methods of sending WAP information will emerge such as GPRS and UMTS, which will make mobile internet come to life.
How do I subscribe to mobile internet?
You don't need to subscribe. Once you have a WAP-compatible phone, you simply start using it. (Some phones will require a simple set-up process.)
How much does it cost?
There are no set up or subscription charges, you just pay for the call time you use. Calls to the WAP service typically will cost around 10p per minute. You are billed in the same way as for a voice call, with each mobile internet call listed as 'WAP' on your bill.
Can I use my existing phone?
Probably not. You need a WAP-compatible phone.
Can I keep my existing number?
Yes. There is no need to change your number to use mobile internet.
MMS
What is MMS?
MMS stands for Multimedia Messaging Service which enables people to send pictures and multimedia messages to each other.
What does it offer?
MMS offers an increase in mobile-to-mobile messaging capabilities by enabling colour pictures, animations, audio and video clips to be sent along with text.
How will I benefit from this service?
This will open the door to content-rich applications and services such as electronic postcards, animated cartoons and multimedia presentations.
Mobile Networks
Network Coverage
Is there any way of comparing network performance?
Yes, Oftel publish monthly performance data for all UK networks. For more information read our Network's Performance section.
How do I know if I have coverage in my area?
Check with the network operator by providing them with your postcode. They will be able to confirm whether you can make a call from your area. You can also ask their dealer shops for the same information.
What is coverage?
This refers to a network service being available at a suitable signal level allowing a mobile call to be connected.
What is an acceptable coverage level?
Generally network operators plan to provide In-building coverage level for residential areas and Outdoor coverage level for the roads. Basically with In-building coverage level you will be able to make a call from inside your house. However with outdoor coverage level this is mostly restricted to inside you car or outdoors.
Number Portability
What do I need to transfer my number?
You'll need a code from your current mobile operator called a PAC (Porting Authorisation Code). You'll be able to get this by calling them directly or going into your nearest retailer who'll be able to request it for you.
What is my PAC for?
Your PAC is a passport to transfer your number from your current mobile operator. It gives you permission to leave them and allows your new mobile operator to transfer your number. Once your PAC is issued it's only valid for 30 days ? so please use it quickly. After 30 days your PAC will become invalid and you'll need to request a new one.
What if I've got a pre-paid phone?
Whether you have pre-paid or pay monthly bills, as long as your phone is still connected, you should be able to transfer your number in the same way.
How much will it cost me?
You shouldn't be charged for transferring your number, however your current mobile operator may want to charge you. It's best to check with them when you ask for your PAC number.
What if I change my mind and want to cancel my transfer request?
Most operators allow you to change your mind up until the point you get your text message confirming the day your transfer will take place. However please check with your new mobile operator.
What could stop me transferring my number?
There could be two reasons: Your number has been disconnected or you have a minimum term contract with your current mobile operator and you have outstanding subscription charges.
Do I need a new phone?
You don't necessarily need a new phone when you transfer your number, however some phones may not be compatible with the new mobile operator, so it is best to check first.
Where can I get more information from?
For more details on transferring your number you can contact OFTEL on 020 7634 8888
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