Number portability confirmed for pre-pay mobiles

Telecom pre-pay customers that switch to Vodafone will be able to retain their phone numbers by April 2008.

The Commerce Commission has confirmed that pre-paid mobile services are covered under local and mobile phone number portability.

Launched in April, number portability allows customers to change their telco provider but retain the same telephone number within a local calling area. Mobile phone numbers can also be kept, including network access codes, when changing providers.

However, Telecom pre-pay mobile customers who switched to Vodafone pre-pay had been unable to retain their original phone number.

Phone companies have until April 2008 to comply.

- NZPA