Mobile Phone Usage

[JuniperEccles]

I only use my mobile for emergencies and so have to make sure I make a call now and then so that my account isn't closed for non-use. Does leaving a message count as a call?

[Buenchico]

If you're leaving a message on someone's answering machine (or on the answering service which is provided by their phone company) then, as far as your own phone provider is concerned, you've still made a chargeable call to their number.

So, yes, it does count.

[JuniperEccles]

Many thanks, Buenchico. I knew you'd know!

[bhg481]

Even receiving a call or a text is sufficient to keep the SIM alive. I haven't spent any money on my phone for years; the texts from the bank to send an authorisation code or a text to tell me a click-and-collect is ready suffice.

[barry1010]

Not all providers are the same, bhg. Many insist on a chargeable call

[bhg481]

I'm with Tesco on their low-usage tariff.

[barry1010]

Tesco doesn't offer that tariff now. The cheapest is £7.50 a month and any unused minutes/text/data expires at the end of that montly period. Use it or lose it, and pay £7.50 every month.