• We’re currently investigating an issue related to the forum theme and styling that is impacting page layout and visual formatting. The problem has been identified, and we are actively working on a resolution. There is no impact to user data or functionality, this is strictly a front-end display issue. We’ll post an update once the fix has been deployed. Thanks for your patience while we get this sorted.

Special phone to call from Middle East?

oiprocs

oiprocs

Diamond Member
A friend is going on a trip to the middle east, and he wants to be able to call people in the US on his cell phone. He thinks he can buy a phone card and use it on his cell, but I don't think that is going to work. Your network coverage in the US doesn't move with you over the Atlantic.

I've heard that if you have a "capable" phone, you can buy a SIM card in, say, Dubai, put that card into your phone and you will be able to call the US.

Does any of this make sense?
 
He's not taking a laptop.

EDIT* Well, he might be, I'm not sure, but let's say that he isn't, or doesn't have access to it.
 
Ok, well I read that he could unlock his phone, then buy a prepaid SIM card to use.

Guess he'll have to decide to use Skype or unlock his phone.
 
Just have him call his provider, should explain everything.

He will need a new SIM card if his phone uses one, yes.
 
He will need 2 things:

A phone that can at least handle GSM 900-1800 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GSM_frequency_bands)
It will need to be unlocked (contact your provider and tell the rep you're traveling overseas and need an unlock code -- they'll ask for your IMEI and issue you a code to punch in)

Then when he arrives overseas, he'll be able to purchase a prepaid SIM card and pop it into the phone no problem.

EDIT: if he wants to call internationally using a prepaid SIM, it's going to be very expensive (he'll wear down his balance very quickly). Best bet is to use some sort of VoIP service.
 
unlocked GSM phone, with the right bands (not the ones used in the US, canada) 900/1800. and a local sim.

most gsm phones nowdays except the cheapest have at least 3 bands, and should work
 
Where is he going? I believe the UAE blocks all voip traffic since the government has a telcom monopoly and doesnt want the competition. So if he's in the UAE, skype is out.
 
Which country? If he's going to Jordan, tell him to buy a Zain SIM at the airport. In Israel, I prefer Cellcom. Other countries...ask someone else.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

TRENDING THREADS

Back
Top