Free mobile voice, text and data plans coming to UK ( Freedompop )

grumbler

Thanks.

Now I inserted the SIM, installed the app, but still am unable to make and receive calls.

When making a call from the new SIM it says after long waiting: "There was an error placing call to +44**********. Please check the dialed number for errors and try again".

When trying to call to my new number the message is that the number isn't recognised, but here are some 'missed calls' in the notifications bar. However, I can't see the actual numbers.

The mobile shows 3G connection, the app (Android one) shows my details, the SIM number, plan details and 'Premium voice' active.

Tried their useless Diagnostic app: the button for "I cannot make or receive calls" is grey/inactive and shows "FIX ME! CHECK MESSAGING APP: UPDATED".

Any ideas what to do next?

ETA: for the record, there is a message "FreedomPop Setup Complete. Your phone number is 074** ******" in the notifications bar.

EDIT: managed to make a call from the new SIM eventually, but can't return a call. The same message: 'number not recognised'.

grumbler

OK, some patience is needed to understand this.

It's my first ever FreedomPop (FP) SIM(1) in slot 1 of my first ever dual-SIM smartphone. The phone recognises it as "SIM slot 1 - 3 UK 01". It's supposed to be used mainly for data, but I installed their messaging app as well.

The second slot is occupied by my brand new Delight Mobile SIM(2): "SIM slot 2 - SIM02.

Intuitively in Settings >> SIM cards I allocated SIM(1) as "Preferred SIM for Mobile data" and SIM(2) for calls and texts.

Problems start when I dial Delight's special numbers: 191 (topup), *195# (view your number), *192# (check your balance). The first one is allegedly 'not valid', the second goes to some "sip:*195%123@fp.layered.net". Is this because the FP's app hijacked the phone?

Even worse, if I switch SIM(1) off completely in the settings and call 191, I still hear "not valid" message. If I call to my other mobile, I see my FP number. I guess it's because the call goes via WiFi as if I switch it off I can't make calls.

Any ideas? Should I uninstall the bloody FP app?

MikeWhite

Have you followed the thread on the UK Freedompop forum?

"Finally got FreedomPop working on Dual Sim Phone"
https://forums.freedompop.com/discussion/13713/finally-got-freedompop-working-on-dual-sim-phone

tronator

yes, the FP's messaging app seems to hijack all outgoing calls. If you don't make calls through FP, then just uninstall the app. Alternatively force close it before you make the call (Settings -> Apps -> Messaging -> Force Stop).

That's what i do as I don't trust the 3rd party store mentioned in the link above.

System

Why not treat yourself to a £5/£6 iD or Life mobile sim only?

tronator

Heng_Leng wrote: »

Why not treat yourself to a £5/£6 iD or Life mobile sim only?

Because you get 200MB free data from FreedomPop?

System

You don't need to give them credit card details along with authorisation to charge any overages to said card anymore?

tronator wrote: »

Because you get 200MB free data from FreedomPop?

mobilejunkie

In case people haven't noticed, the 100% free sims are available again. No postage etc. I already have two but only use 1 for data only (never bothered with the app). Only 200mb but that suits me and never paid a penny for any of it.

buglawton

Worth knowing that the new Three Data Rewards SIM that offers 200MB/month free without topup, is now free to order instead of £10 to buy. It is for tablets and mifis but does allow calls and texts through 3 at low rates and 3 Feel At Home works. Uses 4g too. Looks like Freedompop is now dead in the water, a bit naughty of 3 to undercut them as they piggyback on 3.

Brynsam

Anyone who remembers the ill-fated Ovivo from two years ago will probably start from a point of scepticism, but surely this is worth considering:

http://www.uswitch.com/mobiles/news/2015/09/freedompop-five-things-you-need-to-know/

Bit baffled that I can't find mention of this on MSE's website and wonder why it's not there, if it really is the great deal it sounds. Anyone have first-hand experience of actually using FreedomPop, please?