Truphone – best known as a mobile VoIP provider – has announced Truphone Local Anywhere, a full GSM mobile phone service for people who work or travel internationally. Users will receive a SIM card that can give them local numbers and local voice, data and text rates in all countries where Truphone has established operations. The company also says international calling from Truphone countries can save more than 50% over standard mobile operator charges.
Geraldine Wilson, CEO of Truphone, said "We believe that businesses should pay local rates, rather than inflated roaming rates, anywhere that Truphone has an established presence. One smart SIM will provide a business traveller with the ultimate in convenience: local rates for calling and data, as well as local contact numbers wherever they are, removing the need to swap SIM cards, juggle phones or check multiple voicemail boxes. We are working closely with operators in key business and leisure destinations all over the world with the goal of rolling out in over 20 countries by the end of 2010."
As part of the service, Truphone has created an MVNO partnership with Vodafone that'll see Truphone using Vodafone UK's network for Truphone Local Anywhere. Calls made by Truphone customers in the UK, as well as Truphone Local Anywhere roaming calls originating and terminating in the UK, will be delivered via the Vodafone UK network.
The service is currently only available in the US and the UK. Truphone says it plans to expand the service across Europe and also to longer haul destinations during 2010.