Mobile number prefixes help identify which telecom provider a number is associated with. In many cases, people search for specific prefixes to determine which network they belong to, ensuring they can take advantage of network-specific promotions and avoid unnecessary charges. One frequently asked question is about the 0979 prefix.
This article will explore which network uses the 0979 prefix, why knowing a number’s network is important, and how to verify if a number has been transferred to a different provider.
Understanding Mobile Number Prefixes
A mobile number prefix consists of the first four digits of a phone number. Telecommunications companies assign these prefixes to distinguish their numbers from those of other providers. While prefixes traditionally indicated a number’s original network, mobile number portability now allows users to switch providers while keeping their existing number.
Despite this change, prefixes remain useful for identifying the original telecom provider, helping users determine call rates, promotional offers, and network coverage availability.
What Network Uses the 0979 Prefix?
The 0979 prefix is assigned to Smart Communications. Smart is one of the leading telecom providers in the Philippines, competing with Globe Telecom and DITO Telecommunity. It offers extensive mobile services, including prepaid and postpaid plans, mobile data, and voice call services.
Smart Communications – A Leading Mobile Provider
Smart Communications has long been a major player in the Philippine telecommunications industry, providing nationwide coverage and reliable mobile services. It is known for offering fast mobile internet, competitive call and text promos, and strong network infrastructure.
Some key features of Smart Communications include:
- Nationwide 4G and 5G coverage for fast mobile data
- Budget-friendly prepaid and postpaid plans
- Exclusive call and text promos for Smart subscribers
- Reliable customer service and widespread accessibility
Mobile numbers that start with 0979 are originally registered under Smart Communications. However, due to mobile number portability, some users with a 0979 number may have switched to another network.
How to Verify if a 0979 Number is Still Under Smart
Since mobile number portability allows users to change networks while keeping their original number, a 0979 number may no longer be under Smart. Here are some ways to check which network a mobile number currently belongs to.
Contact Customer Support
Each telecom provider has a customer service department that can check if a number is still registered with them. Contacting Smart’s customer service can confirm whether a 0979 number is still part of their network.
Use Online Network Checkers
There are online services that allow users to verify which telecom provider a number currently belongs to. These platforms provide quick results on whether a 0979 number is still under Smart or has been transferred to another network.
Try Calling or Sending a Message
If you are a Smart subscriber, sending a message or making a call to a 0979 number can help determine if it is still within the same network. If network-specific promos apply, the number is likely still under Smart. If additional charges apply, the number may have been transferred to another provider.
Why Knowing a Mobile Number’s Network Matters
Identifying which network a mobile number belongs to is important for several reasons, including cost savings, network-based promotions, and service reliability.
Avoiding Extra Charges
Telecom providers often offer lower rates or free calls and texts within their own network. Making calls or sending messages to a different network may result in higher costs. Knowing whether a 0979 number is under Smart can help users avoid unnecessary charges.
Taking Advantage of Network-Specific Offers
Many telecom providers have exclusive offers for their subscribers, including free calls, text bundles, and discounted data plans. If you know a number’s network, you can take full advantage of these promotions.
Ensuring Reliable Network Coverage
Some networks have stronger coverage in certain areas. If you are traveling or relocating, knowing which network a number belongs to can help ensure reliable signal reception.
Mobile Number Portability and Its Impact on Network Identification
Mobile number portability allows users to switch to another network while keeping their original number. This means that a number that originally belonged to Smart, with the 0979 prefix, may now be registered under Globe or DITO.
Benefits of Mobile Number Portability
- Users can switch to a network with better service or pricing without changing their phone number
- No need to inform contacts about a new number
- Encourages telecom providers to improve their services to retain customers
While mobile number portability offers flexibility, it also makes it harder to determine a number’s current network just by its prefix. Checking through customer service or online tools is recommended for confirmation.
How to Switch to Smart While Keeping Your Number
For those looking to move to Smart while keeping their existing number, the process is simple.
- Visit a Smart store or authorized partner outlet.
- Request a mobile number portability transfer.
- Provide valid identification and complete the necessary forms.
- Wait for the transfer process to be completed, which usually takes 24 to 48 hours.
Once the transfer is complete, users can start enjoying Smart’s network services while keeping their old mobile number.
Frequently Asked Questions
What network does 0979 belong to?
The 0979 mobile number prefix is assigned to Smart Communications, one of the leading telecom providers in the Philippines.
Can I switch to another network while keeping my 0979 number?
Yes, mobile number portability allows users to change networks while keeping their phone number. A 0979 number may now be with another provider if the user has switched.
How can I check which network a number currently belongs to?
You can check by contacting customer service, using an online number lookup tool, or sending a message to see if network-based promos apply.
Why is it important to know a number’s network?
Knowing the network helps users avoid extra charges, take advantage of promotions, and ensure they have good network coverage.
The 0979 prefix is originally assigned to Smart Communications, a leading telecom provider in the Philippines. However, due to mobile number portability, some 0979 numbers may now belong to other networks. Checking the current provider of a number is important to avoid extra charges, maximize promotional offers, and ensure good network coverage.
With nationwide mobile services, high-speed internet, and competitive prepaid and postpaid plans, Smart remains one of the strongest telecom providers in the country. By understanding mobile number prefixes and using verification methods, users can stay informed and make the most of their mobile services.