Complain to the network operators Eircell or Esat Digifone if you can't get adequate coverage or are having problems with billing. If the problem is handset-related, then you can complain to the shop where the phone was purchased.
(While the telecoms regulator, Ms Etain Doyle, receives about 60 complaints a months from consumers on mobile telephony, the office can do little to help the individual consumer.)
For Esat Digifone customers there is a loophole to reduce call costs. By changing the settings on your mobile phone to route calls through independent free WAP gateways, it is possible to access WAP via 1891 Internet access numbers, which cost 11.5p for 7.7 minutes peak compared to present WAP rates of 12.5p per minute or 20p per minute. Websites such as www.waphq.com can give the user a step-by-step guide on how to do this.
Compare the call costs offered by the network operators. At present only Eircell and Esat Digifone offer WAP, therefore this is relatively simple. However, prices can change regularly and dramatically in the mobile landscape, with numerous special offers and price promotions.
Consider changing your network before you upgrade a phone. Existing customers are often not offered packages that are as attractive as those available to a first-time buyer. The regulator is expected to introduce mobile number portability shortly, enabling you to bring your old phone number with you.
Think carefully before purchasing a WAP phone. Try to see a demonstration of what it can or can't do and talk to any friends who have already bought one.
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