Roaming

What is Roaming?

Roaming is the ability to keep using a cell phone or other mobile device on different networks in different geographic locations. When a user’s device is roaming, it typically connects to a different network than the one it is normally associated with, allowing the user to make and receive calls or access the internet even when out of their usual coverage area. For message senders this matters too: BSG's Number Verifier can detect whether a number is currently roaming before you send.

Whether a roaming device can still be reached comes down to whether the visited network can query the home operator's HLR in real time. See BSG's Maintain a Clean, Relevant Database with HRL Service for a closer look at how this plays out in practice.

How does this work?

When a user is roaming, their device is constantly searching for the strongest available signal from any of the networks it can access. When the device finds a signal that’s strong enough, it will automatically connect to the network. Depending on the network and the user’s plan, the user may incur additional charges for roaming.

Are there additional charges that come with roaming?

Depending on the network and the user’s plan, there may be additional charges for roaming. It’s important to contact your network provider to find out what fees are associated with roaming services.