Switching mobile provider

PHK

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81941027#Comment_81941027

What other people mentioned but I can't see you've responded.

What model is your phone. If it's too old it won't work with with VoLTE (to make calls over 4G) and with some networks migrating customers away from 2G (so that it's for emergency calls only) and 3G having been switched off then you might find it doesn't work.

Veloflyer

Phone is HTC Desire S. It works fine with Vodofone. I know it is royal and ancient, but it does what I want it to do.

Veloflyer

This one

Seems to support 2G and 3G. I don't care about accessing the internet, just calls and texts.

flaneurs_lobster

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81941355#Comment_81941355

I had one of those (still do). It's 14 years old so impressive longevity, mine's still working.

Vodafone (assuming you stay with Vodafone/Lebara) are gradually switching off 2G access nationally, it's due to complete in 2030. 3G no longer functions.

Keep using it if you are happy with it, but be aware that a "feature" phone (so calls & texts) with 4G should give you better coverage and clearer calls and can be had for less than £15 from Argos.

Veloflyer

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81941629#Comment_81941629

I assume the HTC will still work for calls and text with the Lebara package I have ordered? on 2G?

Thanks for tip ref Argos.

flaneurs_lobster

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81941816#Comment_81941816

Yep, their FAQ says

Will 2G be switched off too?

No, we are not switching off our 2G network so you can continue to use your device for our services for calls and texts if you have a 2G handset. It currently covers more than 99% of the UK population. 

https://www.lebara.co.uk/en/help/phone-devices/3g-switch-off.html?srsltid=AfmBOoqss362VUGiiq_TZiBR7RXYKNlpqminyXQfa2V7MNBrQgbPePli

Bit out-of-date, believe Vodafone have now completed 3G turn-off.

EDIT : just to add, there's no reason why that Lebara SIM shouldn't work in your HTC, just don't do anything about switching your phone number to Lebara (don't put your PAC code into any Lebara online forms needed to activate the SIM) just in case….wait 'till you've seen it working.

Veloflyer

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81941822#Comment_81941822

Many thanks for confirming. Idiot questions then.

On receiving the SIM card, I swap it out with the existing?

If I do not activate the SIM card with the PAC code how do I check it works? Make a call? How do others make a call to me - to check it receives calls?

flaneurs_lobster

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81942031#Comment_81942031

You just want to make sure that the Lebara SIM/service works on your HTC before you ask to switch your number to them.

The SIM card should arrive activated, with it's own number which will be on the packaging somewhere.

Replace your Voda SIM with the new one, make an outgoing call & text, confirm receipt. Ask recipient to return favour.

If that's all OK then do the necessary to swap your number to Lebara, the supplied Lebara number will be overwritten.

I wouldn't try submitting a PAC until Easter w/end is over, switches only get actioned on working days so if something goes astray it could be days before anything is checked out.

Veloflyer

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81942051#Comment_81942051

Many thanks - I am a total numpty when it comes to these things. I have however rebuilt many classic motorcycles from scratch….I think I was born in the wrong century…..

Veloflyer

Update - It all seems to work - old number seems to be transferred OK. I had to endure call centre hell with Vodafone as simply texting for the PAC failed. They wished to discuss to try and entice me back and I had to insist several times for the PAC number rather than simply give in and remain with them. Not a pleasant experience.

Very many thanks to all.