There's no place like home... (Part 2)
While I was on holidays, I could not resist peeking into a couple of mobile phone shops (sad huh?). Most products I saw there can be categorised as either a) adequate, and b) boring. I cease to be amazed that a country that prides itself on technology is really not up there with the latest and greatest. Most stores (regardless of the carrier), had a limited range of approximately 10 – 15 handsets and PDA’s (including prepaid). Our Next G range – both from the device AND the customisation (content) perspective, offers customers a far greater choice. For those of you who think we lag behind the US, I can assure you we are streets ahead!
If you are planning a trip overseas, here are some technology tips…..
- International roaming.
Make sure you call your Australian network provider and have international roaming switched on to your account. Remember, you must be the authorised account holder to do this. - Ensure your handset is not network locked
If you have a prepaid handset, there is a strong possibility it is locked to your provider’s network. Check with them before travelling – be prepared to pay an unlocking fee and allow between 24 and 48 hours to have your handset unlocked. - Local prepaid services / calling cards
If you want to purchase a prepaid service (SIM only or SIM and Phone combination), check out the rates online before you travel. Exercise caution, as the handset you purchase is likely to be locked to the local network and customised to take advantage of their network features - and may not operate on Australian networks upon your return. - #101# - MessageBank
If you divert your phone to Messagebank (or have it turned off when not using it), you can still get your messages wherever you are in the world. To retrieve your messages from MessageBank, press #101# then Send. MessageBank will call you back and read your messages to you. This is a cost effective way of staying in touch without running the risk of having people call your Australian mobile in the middle of the night (if they don’t know you are on the other side of the world!) - Check on WiFi hotspots before you leave
Do an internet search for WiFi hotspots you can use for free. Many bars, restaurants and public parks have them – and they are there just waiting for you to connect. No longer will you have to fight for a seat at the Internet Café. - Keep a copy of your phone / PDA / Laptop serial numbers
Along with your passport number, credit card details and other vital information, it’s a good idea to keep a copy of your phone IMEI number and the serial numbers of your other items. Better still, make two copies – one for home and one to go with you. - Store your phone numbers on the phone or SIM card in international format for ease of calling, and keep a copy at home
A good habit to get into is storing your phone numbers in the international format (ie +614 xx xxx xxx or +613 xxxx xxxx – where the + saves you typing the international access code and 61 is the code for Australia). If you store your phone numbers on your SIM card, and intend to take your phone overseas with you, copy your numbers onto your phone as well. This will allow you to access them if your use a local SIM card at your destination. Also, it’s a good idea to back up your phone before leaving home, so your numbers are safe in the event you lose your phone overseas. - Don’t forget your charger
Hands up those of you out there who have left their charger at home…..(yes my hand is up…). Whist it is not impossible to get another one, it certainly is an inconvenience.
It’s great to be home. Now I am back I am looking forward to reviewing the new Nokia N95 and E51, as well as the Samsung A821 Widescreen.
Until next time, thanks for reading.