Ofcom’s latest decision will enable mobile phone customers to make calls to 0800 numbers free of cost. Mobile phone companies are asked to stop charging customers who dial 0800 numbers. At present, mobile phone customers have to pay 40p a minute to
call 0800 numbers. The same service is offered for free of cost for landline users and is benefited by individuals, councils, NHS and other public bodies. In few weeks time, the regulator will introduce the free scheme to mobile phone customers. It will also furnish other charges for non-geographic numbers that starts with 08 or 09. By introducing such changes, the real cost for sending votes for TV reality shows will be revealed.
Ofcom’s intervention into the issue will require mobile phone firms to provide information to the customers regarding the standard costs for calling 09 premium numbers. TV Reality shows should also inform the customers about the additional costs on-screen. Confusion regarding the use of 118 enquiry service will be clarified by the regulator. New proposals from Ofcom require the mobile phone companies to spell the standard charges for using 118 services.
Under the new plans Ofcom hopes to inform the customers clearly about the prices and costs for calls. By letting the mobile phone customers call 0800 numbers for free of charge the regulator enhances the user experience and offers best value for their money.
