phone plan in Ireland

[rmm22]

We will be in Ireland for 10 days -- and need a phone plan for emergency use only. Any recommendations? I will bring my phone but I understand that I can't use the Public Mobile plan. Can I still keep my number?

[computergeek541]

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@BKNS27 wrote:

@computergeek541 

That is strange because my WhatsApp profile is showing my PM number plus all my friends contact.

I am also using a group text and calling to friends oversea.

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Yes, it will show the phone number, but that is only a verification technique used by WhatsApp and a way for friend to find each other.  My point is how WhatsApp does not take over your phone number.  If someone sends regular SMS or makes a regular phone call to you, WhatsApp isn't capable of receiving them.  This means that WhatsApp does not allow a customer to access the services assigned to the phone number.  WhatsApp is a separate service.  In that sense, WhatsApp is exactly the same as other instant messaging services, but that's all it is - an instant messaging and internet calling service.  To put it another way:  The phone number in WhatsApp is only a login/account identifier.

[BKNS27]

@computergeek541 

That is strange because my WhatsApp profile is showing my PM number plus all my friends contact.

I am also using a group text and calling to friends oversea.

[computergeek541]

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@BKNS27 wrote:

@rmm22 

You can use WhatsApp with your current PM number while in Ireland through wifi or on the local SIM that you need to purchase in Ireland. If you use a VoIP like Fongo or TextNow app…you will need to pick a secondary number.

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Using WhatsApp does not use the customer's current phone number will not give the customer any access to the services provided on it.  If someone make attempts to send an SMS message or tries to make a regular phone call to this Public Mobile customer, it will not be received through WhatsApp.  The phone number association for WhatsApp is only used as 2FA technique and for other users to be able to find a contact. 

[BKNS27]

@rmm22 

You can use WhatsApp with your current PM number while in Ireland through wifi or on the local SIM that you need to purchase in Ireland. If you use a VoIP like Fongo or TextNow app…you will need to pick a secondary number.

[hairbag1]

@rmm22 

you could download the free TextNow app to make/rec free calls / sms to most any Cdn / US numbers. TextNow uses your local wifi or also if you buy a data plan in Ireland, TextNow will work too.

[rmm22]

Thanks - yes - that's what I wanted to clarify, whether I could use my PM number. So, it sounds like I will need to find another way to use the phone with a local number just for the trip.

[Dunkman]

@rmm22 

You will not be able to use your PM phone number while in Ireland.  Public mobile offer roaming in Mexico and United States.  That is one major disadvantage of PM service. 

Some PM customers would purchase a domestic SIM card while traveling abroad.  Or purchase a travel eSIM from online sites like Airlo.  If you need data only (ie. no phone number), Mobimatter.com offers cheaper eSIM for traveling abroad.  

[Phil_Adelphus]

@rmm22   I'm sure someone will be along with recommendations for an emergency use plan there.  There's no reason why you would lose your Public Mobile number as long as you either pay for it to continue if renewal date occurs during the ten days, or let it suspend and then restart it when you come back.  There would be no refund for not using while away.  You would not be able to use your Public Mobile number with another provider while there, if that's what you mean.