Cellphone networks prepare to enable users to switch

[rpm]

http://www.mybroadband.co.za/nephp/?m=show&id=2727

[Tns]

o they will find a way to charge the user some management fee.....

[asmith]

There are some major un-unswered issues:
1) If one calls say an 082 number from a Vodacom phone and its actually going to MTN, how will one know that the call is costing more?

2) How will an office PABX know what a call really cost?

3) How will least cost routing know which network to send the call to?

[bwana]

Manyatshe also predicts problems as the rules do not permit an operator to prevent users from defecting even if they have unpaid phone bills or owe money for the early termination of their contract.

Well that wasnt very well thought out now was it.

[Farquaon]

I am all for this, and hope it causes a massive price war! 1GB for R 99.00 on HSDPA, now that is what the consumer wants!

[Insider]

There are some major un-unswered issues:
1) If one calls say an 082 number from a Vodacom phone and its actually going to MTN, how will one know that the call is costing more?

2) How will an office PABX know what a call really cost?

3) How will least cost routing know which network to send the call to?

1) The phoning party will hear a tone before the call is put through which will indicate an on-net or off-net call. He can then decide to continue or not.

2)It won't.

3) It won't so the business case for least-cost routing is looking bleak into the future. Initially there will be enough volumes of calls to the correct operator to still counter the effect of some off-net calls being routed incorrectly. As more people migrate and churn levels go over 30% it won't make sense anymore.

2) and 3) Technically there is always the option for the PABX or least cost provider to do development and allow a look-up to the PORTCO database (where all the numbers and their correct networks are stored). Commercially the development and license costs will probably outweigh any least cost savings.