International/Canadian Calls
Can I make international calls using my cell phone?
Yes. However, ALLTEL currently blocks international calling on wireless
phones due to the difference in domestic versus international rates and
fraudulent uses. Rates vary between countries, and are subject to change.
Should you wish to place international calls from your wireless phone,
please contact the UWSP Telephone Support Office at (715) 346-2562.
Can I use my cell phone in Canada?
Yes. However, ALLTEL does not provide cellular service in Canada, so you
will be charged roaming. Canadian roaming charges can be $1.50/minute, or
higher. There is no set roaming charge, so Canadian cellular providers have
the ability to charge any rate they want. In the event of an emergency, your
phone will work, but you will pay.
Can I use my cell phone while traveling abroad? In Mexico?
No. The service we offer is only available in the U.S. and Canada (see
previous question). UWSP has CDMA service/network. CDMA is short for Code
Division Multiple Access. CDMA networks are more prevalent in the U.S. than
they are abroad. A CDMA phone has it's identity and number programmed into
the handset by the carrier. You cannot easily switch numbers on CDMA phones.
In Mexico - No. At this time, Alltel does not have a roaming agreement with wireless providers in Mexico. Your phone will only work near the border of Texas, mainly by El Paso/Ciudad Juarez. The roaming rate is $.99/minute plus long distance (which varies).
What does GSM mean?
GSM is short for Global System for Mobile Communications. GSM is the most
widespread standard for cell phone networks in the world, but in the U.S. it
is not common. A GSM phone will come with a SIM (Subscriber Identity Module)
card. It is a tiny plastic chip that, as its name implies, identifies your
phone on the GSM network. If you take the SIM card out of your GSM phone and
put it into another GSM handset, you'll be able to place and receive calls
on the second phone using your own cell phone number.
Can I use an International Calling Card to make an international call
with my cell phone?
Yes. You can use any type of calling card. Obviously, you incur a charge by
purchasing a calling card. Since most calling card companies require you to
dial a toll free access number, you won't have any additional cell phone
charges. However, using your cell phone with a calling card, uses
airtime/minutes.
Can I send text messages internationally?
Yes. For international Text Messaging, your "to" telephone number must use
the following format: 011 + Country Code + City Code + Telephone Number.