7/11: SpeakOut Wireless SIM Card At Retail Stores $10

[PitchyDawg]

The SpeakOut Wireless SIM Card alone is finally available at 7/11 for $10, for those who have spare Rogers locked or unlocked GSM phones lying around.

I bought 3 and the cashier looked at me like I was scamming her, lol. Had to explain to her the benefits and then she bought one too :D

Here's a picture:

http://img824.imageshack.us/img824/7485/28593115283594146100010.jpg

Not all locations have them, so call the store first to check. I had to hit a few places before I found tonnes at the College / Spadina store. I suspect some managers are either hiding them, or buying them all because the stores make much more profit if you're forced to buy their phones which include SIM.

SIM = $10, no airtime.

Minimum Voucher = $25, good for 365 days. ("Monthy 911 Fee" = $1.25)

$39.55 taxes in and you've got a 2nd phone line with 100 local minutes or 55 CA/US long distance minutes, free voicemail (to receive, check toll free from a landline or payphone to save airtime), free incoming texts, free caller ID, and don't need to worry about tops up for a full year in very low use scenarios. Popped the SIM into my unlocked iPhone 4, works awesome without data.

Sample Uses for only $25 voucher / year on the Rogers footprint and dumping the SIM in a 2nd unlocked phone:

- pair it with your unlimited Pay Before Wind/Mobilicity/Public Mobile plan so you can make emergency calls when you leave the GTA or hit rough service patches
- charge a second unlocked phone, power it off, and leave it in your glove compartment and you have a backup no matter where you drive; even after 1 year untouched you still have $10 which can be carried over to another year with new $25 voucher
- receive unlimited incoming text messages; use the phone like a pager
- for down on their luck folks, use it as a unlimited voice mail service for employment and housing; check your messages for free by calling the local and toll-free VM number from a payphone
- give a crappy phone to your aging relatives / young children so you can track them down in malls, amusement parks; 21st century 2-way radio
- change your area code for free in 10 minutes through customer service so you got cell hos in every area code
- give this number to sketchy people who ask for your digits at clubs haha
- drug dealers rejoice!
- white collar criminals rejoice!
- terrorists rejoice!
- spies can make clandestine phone calls, then throw their SIM/phone into the garbage, and walk away. LIKE A BOSS lol

(I'm just kidding about the last four btw.)

More Info:

http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/
http://www.speakoutwireless.ca/

[Mrbj]

Good find OP. I have to check my local 7-11 to find out!!

[martinvincent]

Thanks, this will help many.

[champdood]

Just out of curiousity, can anyone explain how the web browsing works? If I buy a $25 voucher and decide to turn on browsing for a month at some point during the year (say to use google maps while traveling), will it just take $10 (plus tax) out of that $25 or do I need to pay for it on top of that? I was also thinking it'd be useful with a 3G tablet, just buy $150 worth of credit and I've got web browsing for a year.

Sorry for the dumb question, I tried reading through the speakoutwireless.ca thread on it, but 20 pages is a lot to dig through :confused:

[scv]

Thanks OP.

I can confirm that this is available at the Dunsmuir and Seymour 7-11 Location in Downtown Vancouver.

[Numb3r$]

Can you just purchase the $25 voucher then call SpeakOut to request a sim?

[lynk]

Can someone confirm that a SpeakOut SIM will work in a Chatr phone? I know they both use the Rogers network, so it should work without doing any unlocking, but I just want to be sure before I pick up a SpeakOut SIM card.

Is the phone number already pre-assigned to these SIM cards, or do we have any options in selecting the number? Thanks.

[diananas]

Just out of curiousity, can anyone explain how the web browsing works? If I buy a $25 voucher and decide to turn on browsing for a month at some point during the year (say to use google maps while traveling), will it just take $10 (plus tax) out of that $25 or do I need to pay for it on top of that? I was also thinking it'd be useful with a 3G tablet, just buy $150 worth of credit and I've got web browsing for a year.

Sorry for the dumb question, I tried reading through the speakoutwireless.ca thread on it, but 20 pages is a lot to dig through :confused:

You can activate and turn it off on a month to month basis AFAIK. And be careful - speakout's data isn't 3G, or the same kind of data you get with most companies nowadays. It's the old school WAP kind.



And if your SIM runs out, make sure you top it up right away. I don't know if this has changed, but SIMs with no balance left on them will become deactivated in x number of days.

[foresthiller]

If you use more than $50 of air time a year, you may be better off buying $50 air time and a Nokia 1661. The Nokia 1661 will only cost $19 when you buy $50 airtime and comes with a sim card.

[Black Adder]

Thanks OP.

Has anyone seen these in Calgary yet? I called a 7-11 in town and the guy was pretty clueless.

[edgedamage]

The SpeakOut Wireless SIM Card alone is finally available at 7/11 for $10, for those who have spare Rogers locked or unlocked GSM phones lying around.

I bought 3 and the cashier looked at me like I was scamming her, lol. Had to explain to her the benefits and then she bought one too :D

Here's a picture:

http://img824.imageshack.us/img824/7485/28593115283594146100010.jpg

Not all locations have them, so call the store first to check. I had to hit a few places before I found tonnes at the College / Spadina store. I suspect some managers are either hiding them, or buying them all because the stores make much more profit if you're forced to buy their phones which include SIM.

SIM = $10, no airtime.

Minimum Voucher = $25, good for 365 days. ("Monthy 911 Fee" = $1.25)

$39.55 taxes in and you've got a 2nd phone line with 100 local minutes or 55 CA/US long distance minutes, free voicemail (to receive, check toll free from a landline or payphone to save airtime), free incoming texts, free caller ID, and don't need to worry about tops up for a full year in very low use scenarios. Popped the SIM into my unlocked iPhone 4, works awesome without data.

Sample Uses for only $25 voucher / year on the Rogers footprint and dumping the SIM in a 2nd unlocked phone:

- pair it with your unlimited Pay Before Wind/Mobilicity/Public Mobile plan so you can make emergency calls when you leave the GTA or hit rough service patches
- charge a second unlocked phone, power it off, and leave it in your glove compartment and you have a backup no matter where you drive; even after 1 year untouched you still have $15 which can be carried over to another year with new $25 voucher
- receive unlimited incoming text messages; use the phone like a pager
- for down on their luck folks, use it as a unlimited voice mail service for employment and housing; check your messages for free by calling the local and toll-free VM number from a payphone
- give a crappy phone to your aging relatives / young children so you can track them down in malls, amusement parks; 21st century 2-way radio
- change your area code for free in 10 minutes through customer service so you got cell hos in every area code
- give this number to sketchy people who ask for your digits at clubs haha
- drug dealers rejoice!
- white collar criminals rejoice!
- terrorists rejoice!
- spies can make clandestine phone calls, then throw their SIM/phone into the garbage, and walk away. LIKE A BOSS lol

(I'm just kidding about the last four btw.)

More Info:

http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/
http://www.speakoutwireless.ca/

iPhone 4?? it looks like a full size sim from the box pic.

[sheriffabc]

Thanks Op - just the thing I need.

[M-e-X-x]

You can activate and turn it off on a month to month basis AFAIK. And be careful - speakout's data isn't 3G, or the same kind of data you get with most companies nowadays. It's the old school WAP kind.

Wrong, it is 3G. Been 3G since December 2010.

[seyelent]

iPhone 4?? it looks like a full size sim from the box pic.

cut it to size

[PitchyDawg]

Can you just purchase the $25 voucher then call SpeakOut to request a sim?

I don't know what the policy is today, but as of yesterday you could call customer service. They take $25 from your voucher and mail you a SIM with $5 airtime. RIP OFF.


Is the phone number already pre-assigned to these SIM cards, or do we have any options in selecting the number? Thanks.

When I activated the SIM online, it only asked me for the activation code (on the package), my target phone IMEI, and then I had the option of choosing province and city I think. The area code and phone number is automatically assigned. Once the # was activated, I moved the SIM to another phone and it still worked. So you can actually activate the phone in areas where there aren't even 7/11 stores (top-up with the help of a friend who buys the vouchers in the future and provides you the code through email.) If you move to another city, call 611 and they will re-assign you a new number for free.


And if your SIM runs out, make sure you top it up right away. I don't know if this has changed, but SIMs with no balance left on them will become deactivated in x number of days.

*777 to check balance... I don't know the exact timeframes, but it's a few months before they deactivate I think.


If you use more than $50 of air time a year, you may be better off buying $50 air time and a Nokia 1661. The Nokia 1661 will only cost $19 when you buy $50 airtime and comes with a sim card.

True, but $39.55 vs $50 + $19 + tax = $77.97 is a difference. Plus if you're heading north of $50, lots of prepaid services have 365 day expiry on their $100 airtime credits.


iPhone 4?? it looks like a full size sim from the box pic.

I had the SIM recut.

Check out those two sites I posted, y'all... their FAQ and forum are informative, especially on the unofficial site.

[blainehamilton]

They are also running the 50% off any phone when you buy $100 in airtime right now as well.

The $20 phone for buying $50 in airtime seems like a good deal. $10 more than a sim card itself. Good for a backup.


Side question: how well does web browsing work with iPod apps?

[Totoriko]

I guess this will tie in with the launch of their online top up feature that will be live soon

[astrotrain]

fook, I was just at Spadina and College area, wish I had seen this earlier.

[TheRonald]

Anybody know if the old Motorola V3 that are GSM 2G work on this ?
Thanks

[Numb3r$]

I don't know what the policy is today, but as of yesterday you could call customer service. They take $25 from your voucher and mail you a SIM with $5 airtime. RIP OFF.



When I activated the SIM online, it only asked me for the activation code (on the package), my target phone IMEI, and then I had the option of choosing province and city I think. The area code and phone number is automatically assigned. Once the # was activated, I moved the SIM to another phone and it still worked. So you can actually activate the phone in areas where there aren't even 7/11 stores (top-up with the help of a friend who buys the vouchers in the future and provides you the code through email.) If you move to another city, call 611 and they will re-assign you a new number for free.



*777 to check balance... I don't know the exact timeframes, but it's a few months before they deactivate I think.



True, but $39.55 vs $50 + $19 + tax = $77.97 is a difference. Plus if you're heading north of $50, lots of prepaid services have 365 day expiry on their $100 airtime credits.



I had the SIM recut.

Check out those two sites I posted, y'all... their FAQ and forum are informative, especially on the unofficial site.


Thanks for clarifying.I totally misunderstood the initial post.It would be cheaper to buy the sim separately then use $25 voucher towards minutes.Good deal,thanks OP.

[edgedamage]

I had the SIM recut.
Check out those two sites I posted, y'all... their FAQ and forum are informative, especially on the unofficial site.
Cool it looks like I can't cut my pcmobile card the contacts are too big. Did you use a sim cutter or scissors? Don't waste your time at the Whites RD 7eleven, they don't have any there.

[seyelent]

Cool it looks like I can't cut my pcmobile card the contacts are too big. Did you use a sim cutter or scissors? Don't waste your time at the Whites RD 7eleven, they don't have any there.

They sell tools online, but I'd suggest tracing out the shape, and carefully using a hobby knife. You only have one chance. You can even cut it out slightly larger than the shape, and gently sand it to perfection. Many ways to accomplish the task.

This is for an iphone though.

[fortunekitty500]

Anybody know if the old Motorola V3 that are GSM 2G work on this ?
Thanks

Works fine. It's what my mom is using.

[Scott86]

Slightly off topic, but does Rogers pay as you go offer an equivalent $10 per month data plan?
My 1 year card just expired(*Literally* 2 days after $6 was taken out to cover my next months txt package... So $6 down the drain since when the card expires *all* the services are canceled, even if they were bought less than 72 hours ago and advertised to last 1 month) and i'm thinking it might be worth my time to switch over to 7-11. I have a android smart phone and have already budgeted to get the koodo LG optimus one once its available in Manitoba... so getting a speak-out sim + light texting package + even. and weekends + data would prob. be best for me... Unless rogers already offers an equivalent.

(Expiration isnt an issue since no matter what i'll be buying the $100 cards)

[TheRonald]

Works fine. It's what my mom is using.
Thanks very much

[rui]

Current use fido prepaid service,would like to buy one,any 7-11 location near finch & victoria park.

[nitroblu]

they finally wised up and offered what we all wanted :)

[bridonca]

Just out of curiousity, can anyone explain how the web browsing works? If I buy a $25 voucher and decide to turn on browsing for a month at some point during the year (say to use google maps while traveling), will it just take $10 (plus tax) out of that $25 or do I need to pay for it on top of that? I was also thinking it'd be useful with a 3G tablet, just buy $150 worth of credit and I've got web browsing for a year.

Sorry for the dumb question, I tried reading through the speakoutwireless.ca thread on it, but 20 pages is a lot to dig through :confused:

If you activate browsing, will be charged $10 each month from your $25 balance as well as a $1.25 system access fee. $11.25 a month. With $25 you can get 2 months of unlimited web browsing, with enough credit left over for 10 minutes of talking.

Your experience with speakout browsing has a lot to do with the phone, because speakout goes through a proxy. Aplle and Nokia phones do pretty good, Android phones need to be rooted and patched to do more that web browsing.

[bridonca]

Can someone confirm that a SpeakOut SIM will work in a Chatr phone? I know they both use the Rogers network, so it should work without doing any unlocking, but I just want to be sure before I pick up a SpeakOut SIM card.

Is the phone number already pre-assigned to these SIM cards, or do we have any options in selecting the number? Thanks.

It might work with a chatr phone, I have heard reports that some phones are incompatible. Locked Rogers phones seems to work well with speakout for the most part. Most locked FIDO phones do not work.

[bridonca]

Anybody know if the old Motorola V3 that are GSM 2G work on this ?
Thanks

There is a very good chance the Speakout SIM will work on that phone, as long as it is unlocked or a locked Rogers phone.

[dhklai]

I got the Nokia 1661 for $19 with $50 voucher 2 weeks ago. Phone activation on-line is very easy. It came with $5 air time once activated, so it still very good deal. The Nokia phone is very basic, good for kids;

7-11 sim card would work with locked Rogers phone or any unlock GSM 950/1900 Mhz phone. I tired it on Blackbarry Bold and HTC smart phone, they all worked well. Calls quality is good as any Rogers phone on Rogers network.

If your monthly voice usage is around 50 minutes. 7-11 Speakout pay by minute is a good choice; For moderate call usage, you can use the monthly bundle plan; you can switch the plan online as needed.

There are many good things about 7-11 Speakout, the drawback is there is no service away from Canada.

Overall I'm very happy with my purchase and using the 7-11 Speakout wireless service. ;)

[TheRonald]

There is a very good chance the Speakout SIM will work on that phone, as long as it is unlocked or a locked Rogers phone.
Thanks alot .I have some unlocked V3,s.Work very well.Great for travelling abroad .

[alfredkcp]

Does this speakout sim work outside Ontario?

[eurekabru]

Probably a dumb question but is there any way of getting this in Montreal? Short of driving to Toronto obviously.

[newfella]

I guess this will tie in with the launch of their online top up feature that will be live soon


How soon?
Thanks

[ItemFinder]

If only they offered MicroSIMS.

[DiploDocus]

phone newbie here

only own 1 phone, a low end nokia phone from 711, only use it sparingly for calls and nothing else (reason i used their service)

i'd like to get a phone with web on speakout, every place i've looked for iphone has some 2-3 year plan from other provider......

i'd like to keep it low price obviously and try one month with remaining credits i got on speakout

[missjosie]

Thanks OP.

Has anyone seen these in Calgary yet? I called a 7-11 in town and the guy was pretty clueless.

Went to 2 7-11 stores in SW, no luck.

[ceraf]

You can activate and turn it off on a month to month basis AFAIK. And be careful - speakout's data isn't 3G, or the same kind of data you get with most companies nowadays. It's the old school WAP kind.
Wrong, it is 3G. Been 3G since December 2010.

Just to clarify...you can get 3G speeds, but you only have access to stuff that goes through port 80 (http). So don't expect a full-blown normal "3G data plan" that you'd normally get from other carriers.

[lyh_chnxm]

just wondering what is the difference between 7-11 speakout and Petro Canada Mobility?
seems that PC now has $40 off for any cellphone which is only $9 for C1661 and sim card is $15
and they also has 40mins bonus when you buy $100 airtime
the only downside i can find is that $25 voucher is only good for 120days
can someone help me please? I am thinking about porting my fido prepaid to any other companies

[got_it_4_cheap]

I got the Nokia 1661 for $19 with $50 voucher 2 weeks ago.

got the same phone for free with $100 voucher last December

hoping the promo returns this December with better free phone :D

[boblepp]

just wondering what is the difference between 7-11 speakout and Petro Canada Mobility?
seems that PC now has $40 off for any cellphone which is only $9 for C1661 and sim card is $15
and they also has 40mins bonus when you buy $100 airtime
the only downside i can find is that $25 voucher is only good for 120days
can someone help me please? I am thinking about porting my fido prepaid to any other companies

The differences are small. For me it was PC lets you top up online, 7-11 requires you visit a store and buy a coupon. 7-11 top ups are all one year, at PC they vary but $75 gets one year 4 months at a time. Their customer service is excellent.

Flip a coin?

[transisto]

What's the closest alternative for pples in QC, ?

Would Buy 10 shipped for 10BTC

[beachlover]

- for down on their luck folks, use it as a unlimited voice mail service for employment and housing; check your messages for free by calling the local and toll-free VM number from a payphone

Think free toll-free calls from a payphone was disabled a decade ago.

[mikka1989]

do they sell the mini sims that fit the iphone4?

[JeeZues]

Does this speakout sim work outside Ontario?

My mom used her Ontario number in Halifax and it worked fine...

[Kevinck]

Does this speakout sim work outside Ontario?

Speakout uses the rogers network. So anywhere that a rogers phone will work, a speakout one will too.

[bylo]

Speakout uses the rogers network. So anywhere that a rogers phone will work, a speakout one will too.
Not quite. Speakout service is available anywhere in Canada where there's Robbers service. However, while Robbers phones (actually SIMs) will roam outside Canada, SpeakOut phones (actually SIMs) won't — not even in the US.

[Sarcasmo]

Thanks OP.

Has anyone seen these in Calgary yet? I called a 7-11 in town and the guy was pretty clueless.

I was at the one on Harvest Hills Blvd and 96th Ave last night. The cashier insisted they didn't sell SIM cards but I could see them sitting on the shelf behind her. I think they've got them, they just don't know they have them.

Thanks for the post, OP. I had an old phone I wanted to reactivate but I didn't want to pay $25 for a new card. $10 and in-store pickup made the sale.

[rinottawa]

Too bad. 7/11 closed all their retail stores in Ottawa.:mad:

[Black Adder]

I was at the one on Harvest Hills Blvd and 96th Ave last night. The cashier insisted they didn't sell SIM cards but I could see them sitting on the shelf behind her. I think they've got them, they just don't know they have them....

Good to know, thanks.

[ceraf]

do they sell the mini sims that fit the iphone4?

You have to cut the sim card to make it fit in the iPhone 4 or any other device that takes microsims only.

[gaogao]

does the Nokia 1661 locked? how can we unlock it?

[champdood]

If you activate browsing, will be charged $10 each month from your $25 balance as well as a $1.25 system access fee. $11.25 a month. With $25 you can get 2 months of unlimited web browsing, with enough credit left over for 10 minutes of talking.

Your experience with speakout browsing has a lot to do with the phone, because speakout goes through a proxy. Aplle and Nokia phones do pretty good, Android phones need to be rooted and patched to do more that web browsing.

Thanks, exactly what I needed to know. I've got a Windows Phone 7 phone to tryout which might be interesting, otherwise I'll fall back on an old Nokia :)

[1_blue_pixel]

does the Nokia 1661 locked? how can we unlock it?

Yes, the Nokia 1661 DOES--er, *IS* locked. I haven't heard about anyone being able to unlock it from the Speakout forums.

[dhklai]

I have both Rogers and Fido sim cards. I put them in the Nokia 1661. It works on both, but don't know if it would work for sim other than these two providers.


Yes, the Nokia 1661 DOES--er, *IS* locked. I haven't heard about anyone being able to unlock it from the Speakout forums.

[duckdown]

I like that they're finally available in stores, but man, SMS chews through your credits so friggin fast it's not even fair. Had to leave SpeakOut for Mobilicity because their outgoing SMS fees are just insane

[2k5tsx]

Can anyone confirm that the $20 off the phone with $50 voucher is over with? Parents don't want to have to spend $100 to get 50% off the phone.

[bylo]

The offer still shows on their website: http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/promotions/20-off-any-phone

[robinto]

I have both Rogers and Fido sim cards. I put them in the Nokia 1661. It works on both, but don't know if it would work for sim other than these two providers.
Are you sure?
My prepaid Fido sim won't work with the Nokia 1661.

[Avatar]

Finally...It's about time. Thanks OP.

I still have two of those brand new cheap phones around. Anyone?

[bylo]

I have both Rogers and Fido sim cards. I put them in the Nokia 1661. It works on both, but don't know if it would work for sim other than these two providers.
Where did you get the 1661? AFAIK all phones sold by 7-11 in the past couple of years are locked to Robbers. They should work with SpeakOut and Robbers SIMs but not Fido (or AT&T, T-Mobile, etc. in the US) SIMs.

[gaogao]

is there anyone know how to unlock Nokia C3?

[TheRonald]

I have tried several 7/11 around DVP/Eglinton and cannot find any stores with sim cards.Plus i keep getting different stories as to when they are expected.Any suggestions as to obtaining a sim card and $25 voucher would be appreciated.
Thanks

[gaogao]

one more question, who can confirm the Nokia C3 has a multi- language selection, besides English and Franch ? I have two friends , one came from Mexio and the other came from China,

[aasoror]

I fail to see the hotness of this deal compared to the current get the nokia phone for $20 with $50 voucher purchase.
The $20 includes the phone, the $10 SIM card and $5 worthy of airtime.
This brings down the phone to $5 (which can unlocked for free by emailing speakout), and the phones are widely available unlike the SIM card deal which is still scarce to find so far.

[gaogao]

I fail to see the hotness of this deal compared to the current get the nokia phone for $20 with $50 voucher purchase.
The $20 includes the phone, the $10 SIM card and $5 worthy of airtime.
This brings down the phone to $5 (which can unlocked for free by emailing speakout), and the phones are widely available unlike the SIM card deal which is still scarce to find so far.

are you sure they can unlock the cell just email to them for free?

[Dave98]

Just as a note, I find Speakout is fine if you live in an area where 7-11 stores are easy to find. Otherwise, Petro-Mobile is practically the same service (with a few rate differences) except you can do top-ups online and Petro gas stations are everywhere. They also sell the SIM card but it's $15 instead of $10 and you have to buy the airtime first. Then you call customer service and they mail it to you.

I was a SpeakOut user until I moved to York region where 7-11 stores are rare... if they exist at all.

[Beradon]

The SpeakOut Wireless SIM Card alone is finally available at 7/11 for $10, for those who have spare Rogers locked or unlocked GSM phones lying around.
http://img824.imageshack.us/img824/7485/28593115283594146100010.jpg

It amazes me the packaging actually has french printing on it yet you still can't buy the damn SIM card in Quebec!

[aingaran]

is there anyone know how to unlock Nokia C3?

I thought the Nokia C3 and all other phones sold by 7eleven were already unlocked? I may be mistaken.

[hap86]

Just as a note, I find Speakout is fine if you live in an area where 7-11 stores are easy to find. Otherwise, Petro-Mobile is practically the same service (with a few rate differences) except you can do top-ups online and Petro gas stations are everywhere. They also sell the SIM card but it's $15 instead of $10 and you have to buy the airtime first. Then you call customer service and they mail it to you.

I was a SpeakOut user until I moved to York region where 7-11 stores are rare... if they exist at all.


actually you can buy the SIM from petrocan without airtime, their website has been updated recently. I just received my SIM this week.

[aasoror]

are you sure they can unlock the cell just email to them for free?

apparently it used to be so till yesterday.
As of August first they will be charging $25 to send you the unlock code.
http://www.speakoutwireless.ca/speak/speak-out-in-other-countries/unlock-7-eleven-phone-and-use-overseas/

[gaogao]

apparently it used to be so till yesterday.
As of August first they will be charging $25 to send you the unlock code.
http://www.speakoutwireless.ca/speak/speak-out-in-other-countries/unlock-7-eleven-phone-and-use-overseas/

too bad, but you are lucky！

[robertla]

what happens if at the end of the month, balance is left with like $1, will my balance turn negative $0.75 when the 9-11 fee is charged?

[coldpower27]

Awesome deal, just got my dad some prepaid service to use... 25 Dollars for 100 Minutes is awesome.. love the 1 Year to use it deal... put Sim in old Rogers phone and worked like a charm...

[NiftyScent]

Has anyone tried it with unlocked Mobilicity/Wind phones yet?

[robertla]

Awesome deal, just got my dad some prepaid service to use... 25 Dollars for 100 Minutes is awesome.. love the 1 Year to use it deal... put Sim in old Rogers phone and worked like a charm...

its less cause of the 1,75$ fee every month

[cyrene]

actually you can buy the SIM from petrocan without airtime, their website has been updated recently. I just received my SIM this week.

+1. Ordered July 27, received Aug 2. You can even pay with Interac from the major banks and the sim comes with $2.50. I would go for SpeakOut too if I live in GTA, but Petro Canada is still a good switch from Rogers prepaid charging 40 cents a minute and 20 cents a text incoming and outgoing. :mad:

[hironomous]

one more question, who can confirm the Nokia C3 has a multi- language selection, besides English and Franch ? I have two friends , one came from Mexio and the other came from China,

just look on ebay. I got a code for about 3 dollars I think. Worked fine. THe C3 would not work with Koodo (and I presume therefore Telus and Sasktel) though, even when unlocked.

[bridonca]

Has anyone tried it with unlocked Mobilicity/Wind phones yet?

It should work. Mobilicity/Wind phones are also GSM phones, which allow them to use Roger's GSM network.

[2k5tsx]

I fail to see the hotness of this deal compared to the current get the nokia phone for $20 with $50 voucher purchase.
The $20 includes the phone, the $10 SIM card and $5 worthy of airtime.
This brings down the phone to $5 (which can unlocked for free by emailing speakout), and the phones are widely available unlike the SIM card deal which is still scarce to find so far.

Unfortunately that deal ended July 31, 2011. I called and visited two 7 Elevens.. and they told me the only deal going on right now is 50% off the phone when you buy a $100 voucher.. which we did yesterday for the little Nokia.

[Ryvius]

I was looking at the online sim card activation and they asked for the imei number of the phone, does this mean that the sim will lock on to a phone once activated?

[ahoroba]

Unfortunately that deal ended July 31, 2011. I called and visited two 7 Elevens.. and they told me the only deal going on right now is 50% off the phone when you buy a $100 voucher.. which we did yesterday for the little Nokia.

The $20 Nokia 1661 deal is still promoted on their website as of today, August 3:

http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/promotions/20-off-any-phone

[Milfman]

It amazes me the packaging actually has french printing on it yet you still can't buy the damn SIM card in Quebec!

Why? Is Quebec the only place in Canada where ppl speak French?

[Kenneth]

Do Speakout sims still work in locked Rogers phone?

[2k5tsx]

The $20 Nokia 1661 deal is still promoted on their website as of today, August 3:

http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/promotions/20-off-any-phone

I brought the print out of the website in.. and they said that's over effective July 31, 2011.. look at the disclaimer on the site.. "limited time offer. Subject to change without notice.".. they just have slow web development.

[nguyentri]

It amazes me the packaging actually has french printing on it yet you still can't buy the damn SIM card in Quebec!


Why? Is Quebec the only place in Canada where ppl speak French?

Quebec is the only place in Canada which has a language requirement for products to have instructions/writings, etc. in French.

[michelkenny]

Went to a 7-Eleven in Winnipeg. Asked the staff for a SIM card, they had no idea what I was talking about. Pointed them to the sign they have in the cell phone aisle stating Speakout SIMs for $10, they still didn't know anything about it...

[Daf]

I went to one yesterday,they did know about it, but said they havent received shipment yet...

How much is it per min of time 10 cents?

[michelkenny]

I went to one yesterday,they did know about it, but said they havent received shipment yet...

How much is it per min of time 10 cents?

25 cents, it's all on the website.

[kingfencer]

where to get a cheap android phone so i can put this card in?

[JeeZues]

where to get a cheap android phone so i can put this card in?

Kijiji :)

[harry]

Do Speakout sims still work in locked Rogers phone?
Works for me!

[radeonboy]

Darnit I need to get one, I have a 2nd Nokia 1661 from Speakout that I forgot to fill up before the expiry date so the SIM card went offline.

And my parents are looking for a cheap cell phone deal, instead of paying $15/month to Public Mobile, I'd rather have them get 200 minutes of airtime for $50 and save all that money...

We need to compile a list of known locations who have these SIM cards, anyone know if they have them in Brampton? Gotta find out

[KrayZeeMofo]

called a few 7/11s and they don't seem to carry any of the sims. they do carry the phones though.

[kingfencer]

does virgin mobile use the same band?

[mobifree]

does virgin mobile use the same band?

Rogers, Fido, Telus, Bell, Virgin all use HSPA 850/1900 MHz.
Rogers, Fido, Speakout, PC Mobile and Petro Canada also use GSM 850/1900 MHz.

[npll1980]

The 7/11 at Don Mills and Overlea (in Toronto) had plenty of the sim cards in stock when I picked one up yesterday. Works like a charm in my old iPhone 3G (locked to Rogers, but still working).

[fairykingprawn]

Will check to see if it is available in the Vancouver area later today.

[EPcjay]

I'd jump on this if they had US roaming too

[lubmar]

I'd jump on this if they had US roaming too

check out WindMobile

[bylo]

I'd jump on this if they had US roaming too
If you're OK with a separate US phone number, get a T-Mobile SIM next time you're in the US. Air time top-ops last a varying amount of time. So depending on how often you go there, you may need to buy at least $100 to get 1 year expiry. Once you do that subsequent top-ups of any amount will also stay valid for a year. See the T-Mobile website for details.

Note that you'll need an unlocked GSM phone. If you get a quadband phone then it will work worldwide with SIMs that you buy locally in each country you visit.

[newfella]

buying air time is available through their website now:
http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/buy-online/top-up-your-account

[robinto]

buying air time is available through their website now:
http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/buy-online/top-up-your-account
Good news.
Thanks.

[smokescreen15]

big news!!!

[coldpower27]

buying air time is available through their website now:
http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/buy-online/top-up-your-account

Sweet, that is awesome, no more having to make the trek down to a 7-11 unless you need to get a SIM card for cheap...

[melaine]

Thanks! It is good to know.

[iheartpepsi]

About time!

[PitchyDawg]

buying air time is available through their website now:
http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/buy-online/top-up-your-account

Pretty cool news... this definitely changes the game plan. I'll update my initial post with this additional information later on in the day.

Maybe 7/11 customer service is planning to unveil some scenario in which $10 would be taken from a $25 voucher purchased online, and the SIM would be mailed out. Or maybe SIMS would be sold online for $10 separately. That would make sense, and would open the market up to areas where there aren't any 7/11 stores (i.e. Quebec.)

If this isn't the case in a month or two - perhaps a few of us who are fortunate enough to be near a 7/11 retail store with a whole bunch of SIMs could offer to mail them out at cost ($11.30 + regular parcel postage over Paypal or something) to people who live in provinces without the retail presence and are therefore currently unable to purchase the SIMs. I wouldn't mind handling a few requests. Said people would just need to purchase the air time online and activate.

[artofwar]

Has anyone ported their number from a Fido prepaid plan? How much is the porting fees and how long does it take? Do you know what is needed to port over the phone number from fido?

[aasoror]

Has anyone ported their number from a Fido prepaid plan? How much is the porting fees and how long does it take? Do you know what is needed to port over the phone number from fido?

Porting is free in should take an hour or two.

[wing0]

buying air time is available through their website now:
http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/buy-online/top-up-your-account

The day has finally arrived!
My grandpa sim card is low on airtime. Now I don't even have to force myself to go to 7/11 to buy the voucher!

[packet1]

bought a sim card and $25 voucher at 3711 Rutherford, west of highway 7. they had quite a few available.

Not really need it right now, how long can I delay activating the voucher?

[bylo]

how long can I delay activating the voucher?
“How long do I have to add my airtime voucher?” (http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/support/faq)

[fairykingprawn]

The sim card is available in Vancouver too. Can anyone get Skype voice chat to work on SpeakOut?

[glalonde]

The sim card is available in Vancouver too. Can anyone get Skype voice chat to work on SpeakOut?

Here are the iPhone speakout data setttings:

http://www.binarysearchtree.com/review/speakout.shtml

Give it a try.
Glen Lalonde

[UTSC]

Does Speak out work out side of North America ( Europe or Asia) ? I don't need to make or receive calls but I like the free incoming text feature when I am abroad.

[michelkenny]

Does Speak out work out side of North America ( Europe or Asia) ? I don't need to make or receive calls but I like the free incoming text feature when I am abroad.

No

[dell11]

Wrong, it is 3G. Been 3G since December 2010.

Is this confirmed by any official statement? I have not found anything anywhere which states this.

[Clee]

buying air time is available through their website now:
http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/buy-online/top-up-your-account

OMG!!! Just need to find out how to get a SIM card in Montreal now!!!

[boblepp]

OMG!!! Just need to find out how to get a SIM card in Montreal now!!!

Being a Petro Canada customer for a while I would be very interested to know what swayed you to Speakout over PC?

When you had to go to a store to top up I chose PC since one never knows where you'll be when you run out and there are very few stores in Ontario.

PC is 5 cents more for LD, 5 cents more for a USA outgoing text, while PC is better in a $100 topup by 40 minutes, so maybe these things are a wash....

What sold you on Speakout?

[KrayZeeMofo]

Being a Petro Canada customer for a while I would be very interested to know what swayed you to Speakout over PC?

When you had to go to a store to top up I chose PC since one never knows where you'll be when you run out and there are very few stores in Ontario.

PC is 5 cents more for LD, 5 cents more for a USA outgoing text, while PC is better in a $100 topup by 40 minutes, so maybe these things are a wash....

What sold you on Speakout?

based on what was quoted in his reply, i'd have to assume that it is because one can now top up their account online.

[boblepp]

based on what was quoted in his reply, i'd have to assume that it is because one can now top up their account online.

Really? That never dawned on me....

[PitchyDawg]

Being a Petro Canada customer for a while I would be very interested to know what swayed you to Speakout over PC?

When you had to go to a store to top up I chose PC since one never knows where you'll be when you run out and there are very few stores in Ontario.

PC is 5 cents more for LD, 5 cents more for a USA outgoing text, while PC is better in a $100 topup by 40 minutes, so maybe these things are a wash....

What sold you on Speakout?

Petro Canada SIM = $15
SpeakOut SIM = $10

Petro Canada 60 Local Anytime Minutes $15 = Expiry 30 Days
Petro Canada 100 Local Anytime Minutes $25 = Expiry 120 Days
SpeakOut 100 Local Minutes (Voucher for $25) = Expiry 365 Days

To Keep Service For One Year:

Petro Canada SIM $15, $15 airtime x 13 (30 day expiry) and tax = $237.30
Petro Canada SIM $15, $25 airtime x 4 (120 day expiry) and tax = $129.95
Petro Canada SIM $15, $100 airtime (365 day expiry) and tax = $129.95 (includes 40 bonus minutes)

vs.

SpeakOut SIM $10, $25 airtime (365 day expiry) and tax = $39.55


The key here is "to keep service for one year." This is the bare minimum money and effort you need to put in. It also assumes you rarely use your cell. Petro Canada wants you to drop $130 or buy vouchers from them at least 4 times a year. Its threshold is $100 airtime a year, either all at one time or cut up into 4 servings. If you were planning to use that much airtime anyways, then yes, 40 extra minutes is a nice bonus. No one is saying Petro Canada is a bad option, just that if you value minutes over airtime expiry, there are way more competitors out there to consider.

Especially now with SpeakOut online top up (and the slight chance that even online SIM purchase is coming) there's really no comparison. I can't speak for all users, but I think that a large portion of SpeakOut customers don't care about data and fancy features and buying a $50 airtime they might not use up that year to get a discount on a phone, or 40 extra minutes on $100 - only about spending the least amount of money possible and maintaining service for very low use scenarios for as long as possible.

Theoretically, if you only make occasional phone calls lasting a minute or or two, a free or $10 second hand Rogers / unlocked GSM phone from a friend / craigslist, a $10 dollar SIM, 2 x $25 Vouchers (1 activated today, and 1 activated a year from now, the last possible day to activate an unused voucher) can last you for 730 days or 2 full years (even with $1.25 a month being taken off as a service charge, you would still have $20 usable credit after all that time.) In theory. Where else can you find that kind of value for essentially having an emergency phone with you on the Rogers footprint Canada-wide?

I also think SpeakOut is a much more attractive option as a 2nd cell line to augment primary service, or, like I said, a phone for occasional use than it is as your only service. Especially now with online top up where ever, it's almost always to someone's advantage to purchase the lowest denomination $25 voucher and then top up with another $25 voucher when it's almost running out because the balance carries over and $25 will extend by another year. $25 and $25 will always get you more time before expiry than a $50 voucher alone (365 days.)

I do admit that once you hit the $50 airtime and especially $100 airtime ranges there are at least half a dozen providers out there that offer compelling packages, plans, data a la carte, features, discounts, etc. including Petro Canada and almost all have 365 day expiry on $100 airtime.

But I think at the extreme low end, SpeakOut is in a class of its own for now.

[boblepp]

..snip....

But I think at the extreme low end, SpeakOut is in a class of its own for now.

Thanks, very thoughtful response. I would have picked Speakout back then had the online topup been available. Neither offered 'sim only' late last year so I had to find used phones. It is so easy now.

My wife and I both paid a total of $73/month with Bell but then started to work 95% from home. Use plummeted. Asked Bell for a suggestion after 22 years with them... they (India) said "Negotiate with me!"... so I did, I went prepaid PC. Bell is just so stupid when it comes to dealing with people. They actually tell you you have to get into a negotiation instead of analyzing your usage and keeping you a happy customer.

Funny how Bell and Rogers say the Internet is so busy they have to cap it, but when it comes to their own cell networks they cater to the unlimited users who use up massive bandwidth, and treat like poop we who are prepaid.

Went PC and now both phones accumulate money even at $25 every 4 months or $75 a year!

OTOH, now I can use minutes and send texts with abandon since I can never get that money back.

Saving at least $500 a year over a 'plan'.

It is certainly strange that both 7-11 and PC run on Rogers and each is a better choice over Rogers for prepaid happiness. The mistake they make is undervaluing us as customers. We may be their lowest gross sales customers but we pay more per minute than anyone, yet we are treated as scum. We pay ahead, buy our own phones with cash, no collection issues, we're low tech and low maintenance.... yet we are just not seen as valuable customers by Rogers or Bell.

One day some consultant will be paid big bucks to 'rediscover' prepaid accounts and how they can build revenues.

For now, thank goodness they exist! I think better of PetroCan and 7-11 because of how they use this business to enhance their own. While I think Rogers is scum for tricking prepaid customers into thinking they get "FREE VOICEMAIL" when in fact they pay through the nose to use it!!

Thanks again for your thoughts.

[boblepp]

..snip..

Petro Canada SIM $15, $15 airtime x 12 (30 day expiry) and tax = $220.35
Petro Canada SIM $15, $25 airtime x 4 (120 day expiry) and tax = $129.95
Petro Canada SIM $15, $100 airtime (365 day expiry) and tax = $129.95 (includes 40 bonus minutes)


minor correction, PC $25 at 120 days, only 3 needed for one year, $15 + $75 = $90 + tax = 101.70

But the Speakout is still ahead at keeping active for a year the cheapest..

Isn't it great we have two so close to choose from? I'd like to have some in between amount of outbound texting... something between .10 each and $10 for 2500.... example...I'd pay $2 for 100 and likely never use more than 30-50.

So, PC and 7-11... how about??
2500 texts $10
500 texts $5
100 texts $2


...snip

[fmf132]

Thanks, very thoughtful response. I would have picked Speakout back then had the online topup been available. Neither offered 'sim only' late last year so I had to find used phones. It is so easy now.

My wife and I both paid a total of $73/month with Bell but then started to work 95% from home. Use plummeted. Asked Bell for a suggestion after 22 years with them... they (India) said "Negotiate with me!"... so I did, I went prepaid PC. Bell is just so stupid when it comes to dealing with people. They actually tell you you have to get into a negotiation instead of analyzing your usage and keeping you a happy customer.

Funny how Bell and Rogers say the Internet is so busy they have to cap it, but when it comes to their own cell networks they cater to the unlimited users who use up massive bandwidth, and treat like poop we who are prepaid.

Went PC and now both phones accumulate money even at $25 every 4 months or $75 a year!

OTOH, now I can use minutes and send texts with abandon since I can never get that money back.

Saving at least $500 a year over a 'plan'.

It is certainly strange that both 7-11 and PC run on Rogers and each is a better choice over Rogers for prepaid happiness. The mistake they make is undervaluing us as customers. We may be their lowest gross sales customers but we pay more per minute than anyone, yet we are treated as scum. We pay ahead, buy our own phones with cash, no collection issues, we're low tech and low maintenance.... yet we are just not seen as valuable customers by Rogers or Bell.

One day some consultant will be paid big bucks to 'rediscover' prepaid accounts and how they can build revenues.

For now, thank goodness they exist! I think better of PetroCan and 7-11 because of how they use this business to enhance their own. While I think Rogers is scum for tricking prepaid customers into thinking they get "FREE VOICEMAIL" when in fact they pay through the nose to use it!!

Thanks again for your thoughts.

I can understand your frustration...and you are certainly not alone on this. But from a business model stand point, Rogers is still getting all our business at the end by means of reseller like Petro or Speakout...

[nohomo]

hopefully the option of buying a sim is available online soon similar to PC

[gaogao]

hopefully the option of buying a sim is available online soon similar to PC

agree, I am looking forward

[gaogao]

who can mail me a sim card? I can pay you with paypal, I will pay for the postage and some extra, pls pm me

[jp149]

Has anyone tested the data on this ? are there any ports that have been blocked ? can I for instance use it in a data stick and use voip, torrents etc ??? how fast is the real world data speeds ?

thanks.

[Messerschmitt]

who can mail me a sim card? I can pay you with paypal, I will pay for the postage and some extra, pls pm me

I could mail sim to people in ON. PM me

[excel]

On the speak out site it says there is $10 2500 txt but is there pay per use eg. $0.25 per outgoing text without that $10 text plan?

[Messerschmitt]

On the speak out site it says there is $10 2500 txt but is there pay per use eg. $0.25 per outgoing text without that $10 text plan?

It's 10c per outgoing. 25c is airtime/min

[boblepp]

I can understand your frustration...and you are certainly not alone on this. But from a business model stand point, Rogers is still getting all our business at the end by means of reseller like Petro or Speakout...

I have no issue with the strength and breadth of their network, but to have to deal with them is just a real depressing task. I am happy some portion of my money goes to them and I wish them to remain technical giants. It's their management team right from the top which I find to be the problem.

Their arrogance in defying the CRTC at every turn, such as the LPIF ripoff pass through titled as "CRTC LPIF FEE" on our statements always makes me wonder why the Rogers family wants their name sullied by such obvious misuse of the cable monopoly in my town. When it was privately held you could go speak to the owners in person. Now thy hide in towers somewhere shielded by waves of incompetent telephone support staff. Their 'Make a complaint to the President's office' goes nowhere.

I pay less and have more usable features using their reseller. So I thank them for having the foresight to blow off the value of prepaid customers to 2 other companies who can make a profit on their mistake. It seems obvious that the best cell business would be one where everyone pays in advance so you can use that cash to make more money, eliminate collection issues, eliminate disputes over contract terms, etc. The per minute rate could fluctuate depending on volume. Seem too simple. Must be a reason they want contracts and hundreds of plan variations. Confusion plus commitment generates money I guess.

[M-e-X-x]

It is certainly strange that both 7-11 and PC run on Rogers and each is a better choice over Rogers for prepaid happiness.

PC runs on Bell actually.

[M-e-X-x]

Just to clarify...you can get 3G speeds, but you only have access to stuff that goes through port 80 (http). So don't expect a full-blown normal "3G data plan" that you'd normally get from other carriers.

Regardless, it's faster than 2G EDGE speeds. I can youtube, foursquare, google map, etc. Goes through a proxy so pictures are compressed/degraded. For $10 unlimited with no IMEI restrictions, can't complain for sure.


Is this confirmed by any official statement? I have not found anything anywhere which states this.

No official statement, just that it was working one day to the surprise of many (including myself).

The $10 sim option + online airtime addition makes SO the best in my opinion for prepaid. Too bad it couldn't survive in the US, but I'm glad it keeps expanding out in Canada.

[boblepp]

PC runs on Bell actually.

My bad, PC = Petro Canada for me, President's Choice for many.... is there an official short form list anywhere? :confused:

[boblepp]

I could mail sim to people in ON. PM me

1 here, 20 more on order, no date:

7-ELEVEN #34722 0.5 mi
UNIT 1, 9 BOREALIS AVE
AURORA,ON L4G 0 (905) 841-1102


Edit: none left, I succumbed, will blow off Bell land line at mother in law at senior's home... we're her only callee..... and she can carry it on her walks for safety... and save big bucks, thanks 7-Eleven!!

[jenviea]

My bad, PC = Petro Canada for me, President's Choice for many....
I dunno ... in a thread that's almost all PC vs SO, seems pretty clear that PC for *this* thread means Petro C.

[jason9945]

Don Mills & Overlea In Toronto still have a few left if anyone needs one!

[Messerschmitt]

1 here, 20 more on order, no date:

7-ELEVEN #34722 0.5 mi
UNIT 1, 9 BOREALIS AVE
AURORA,ON L4G 0 (905) 841-1102


Edit: none left, I succumbed, will blow off Bell land line at mother in law at senior's home... we're her only callee..... and she can carry it on her walks for safety... and save big bucks, thanks 7-Eleven!!

I offered to mail sims to people in ON because I knew 7-11 closed their shops there? Are some still open? Anyway, if there are local sims by all means buy local :). My offer still stands if there are no 7-11 in your area (got some PM's outside of ON, so I guess some 7-11 are really not close at all to some people in other provinces too).

[boblepp]

I offered to mail sims to people in ON because I knew 7-11 closed their shops there? Are some still open? Anyway, if there are local sims by all means buy local :). My offer still stands if there are no 7-11 in your area (got some PM's outside of ON, so I guess some 7-11 are really not close at all to some people in other provinces too).

Yes, much appreciated offer to many. In the fall I went Petro as the closest 7-11 was somewhere I never went, then this one opened up in my town Aurora this spring. So they are expanding here I assume.

[inocent]

I offered to mail sims to people in ON because I knew 7-11 closed their shops there? Are some still open? Anyway, if there are local sims by all means buy local :). My offer still stands if there are no 7-11 in your area (got some PM's outside of ON, so I guess some 7-11 are really not close at all to some people in other provinces too).

Thanks for getting one for me, much appreciated. There are no 7-11 here but they do allow local numbers so it should be fine.

[boblepp]

I offered to mail sims to people in ON because I knew 7-11 closed their shops there? Are some still open? Anyway, if there are local sims by all means buy local :). My offer still stands if there are no 7-11 in your area (got some PM's outside of ON, so I guess some 7-11 are really not close at all to some people in other provinces too).

You got me wondering what plans they have in Ontario, their website explains why there are not many...

From: http://corp.7-eleven.com/AboutUs/InternationalLicensing/ProfileCanada/tabid/116/Default.aspx
select " Franchising" at top, then "Review Franchising Requirements", then "Candidate Profile"


Candidate Qualifications

To be considered as a candidate for a 7-Eleven franchise, you must meet the following requirements:

Be 21 years of age or older
Prove permanent residency in the United States
We prefer you have Retail, Management and/or Customer Service–related business experience within the United States
Not have filed for bankruptcy within the last 7 years
Have excellent credit

The web site does not do a great job supporting Canadians interested in franchising.....

On a positive note:
Slurpee® Capital of the World
Did you know that Manitoba is the "Slurpee Capital" of the world? The 7-Eleven stores in Manitoba sell an average of 8,300 Slurpee drinks per store each month, which makes this Province the world leader in Slurpee sales. Check out free Slurpee drink wallpaper downloads, promotions and more on the 7-Eleven Canada Slurpee website!

Oh to be a dentist in Manitoba!

[eurekabru]

How would one go about getting a Montreal number if there are no 7/11 stores in Quebec? Do I just call customer service and ask for a 514 number?

Tip: You can enter any store code when activating your phone, not just the one that is printed in the box. The store code will determine the assigned area code, therefore if you bought the phone in Calgary and wanted a Vancouver phone number instead, you could look up the store code for a Vancouver store and use that when activating
http://www.speakoutwireless.ca/

[jason9945]

Anyone have any luck with configuring mail on an iPhone with speak out data?

I've read configure it as an exchange account but that doesn't seem to work for me.

[nomadic]

Got a sim for my sister yesterday but she said she doesn't need it right now :(
I got very good number (403-9xx-3338). If anyone in Calgary are interested in this SIM, please PM me, I just sell less than what I paid (<$36.75).
Thx.

[boblepp]

How would one go about getting a Montreal number if there are no 7/11 stores in Quebec? Do I just call customer service and ask for a 514 number?

Tip: You can enter any store code when activating your phone, not just the one that is printed in the box. The store code will determine the assigned area code, therefore if you bought the phone in Calgary and wanted a Vancouver phone number instead, you could look up the store code for a Vancouver store and use that when activating
http://www.speakoutwireless.ca/

Also:
“I just realized my phone doesn’t have to stay in one spot. Can I top up my account while travelling?”

“If you’ve just discovered your mobile phone is mobile, and are still a Canadian resident, you can easily access your online account anytime and top it up. Please note SpeakOut does not serve Quebec, Yukon, NWT, and Nunavut.””


From: http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/support/faq#local-number-portability

Did they mean they have no stores there?? Web site not updated??

Of course the same page also says:
“Can you purchase milk without a cow? Well, same thing. Sort of. SpeakOut Wireless does indeed sell SIM separately. Contact Customer Care at 1-866-310-1023 and an agent will take all your information. A new SIM card is $25. You will need to purchase a minimum $25 voucher from your local 7-Eleven.”

Just off with SO CSR

They will mail a $10 sim to Quebec

Yes, the phones work in PQ, they meant 'no stores' for top up the old way.

Yes, you can get a 514 number, or any Rogers covered area code, call them to activate

So, call 1-866-310-1023 and they will mail a SIM.

[Cameraguy23]

What are some apps on the iPhone work with speakout 3G data?

[jparasite]

Got a sim for my sister yesterday but she said she doesn't need it right now :(
I got very good number (403-9xx-3338). If anyone in Calgary are interested in this SIM, please PM me, I just sell less than what I paid (<$36.75).
Thx.

Which location did you pick it up from? I've been trying to several locations and they didn't have any.

[fairykingprawn]

Finally bought the sim. Activated and got the unlimited browsing. I can confirm that the browsing is indeed 3g.

[iEye]

Finally bought the sim. Activated and got the unlimited browsing. I can confirm that the browsing is indeed 3g.

Q1) What happens when you put it in 2G mode.

Q2) What happens when you try ti browse? are the images compressed?

Q3) what happens when you try to use iPhone Apps?

[fairykingprawn]

Q1) What happens when you put it in 2G mode.

Q2) What happens when you try ti browse? are the images compressed?

Q3) what happens when you try to use iPhone Apps?

1)It works when you put it in 2G but it's much slower.
2)I'm not totally sure whether or not it's compressed but the images are very clear when browsing in 3G. In 2G there are blocks on the images.
3)I'm using android and most apps won't work.

[M-e-X-x]

Q1) What happens when you put it in 2G mode.

Q2) What happens when you try ti browse? are the images compressed?

Q3) what happens when you try to use iPhone Apps?

Read my previous posts ;)

Q1) Um, it works? What were you expecting? :)

Q2) Compressed for me, but not as bad sometimes

Q3) From what I've read, some apps work, some don't. Best to check out the forums on the Unofficial 7-11 SO wireless website.

http://www.speakoutwireless.ca/speak/

[astrotrain]

Can anyone recommend a cheap 3g phone preferably Android that will work with this prepaid service that can tether to a tablet like the TF?

[kungfupanda]

hi guys,

I live in Scarborough wanna to get a 7/11 sim card for my son's rogers phone but no 7/11 around Can anyone help please? PM me thanks:)

[boblepp]

Also:


From: http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/support/faq#local-number-portability

Did they mean they have no stores there?? Web site not updated??

Of course the same page also says:

Just off with SO CSR

They will mail a $10 sim to Quebec

Yes, the phones work in PQ, they meant 'no stores' for top up the old way.

Yes, you can get a 514 number, or any Rogers covered area code, call them to activate

So, call 1-866-310-1023 and they will mail a SIM.

They are out of control....

Today they say a SIM is $25 in the mail, $10 at the store, you can top up mailed sim card online for even the first time... so $15 service charge plus HST I guess to mail one out, so 28.25 total. This is unfortunate. I guess they really see Speakout as getting feet in the store, or you can pay extra if you cannot get to a store. Fair enough I suppose.

I suggest calling a store and reserving if you are near one.

Maybe someone can buy bulk and remail cheaper than $25 but how much would someone pay?

They have a promo on cheaper phones with air time, Nokia 1661 is $19 with $50. At least $20 off. There was a sign on the door said 50% off phone with $100 topup but you best phone and confirm. That's $20 to $60 off their lineup.

[bylo]

I live in Scarborough wanna to get a 7/11 sim card for my son's rogers phone but no 7/11 around
Provided by RFD's overlords: http://www.yellowpages.ca/search/si-bn/1/7%2Beleven/ontario

[boblepp]

They are out of control....

Today they say a SIM is $25 in the mail, $10 at the store, you can top up mailed sim card online for even the first time... so $15 service charge plus HST I guess to mail one out, so 28.25 total. This is unfortunate. I guess they really see Speakout as getting feet in the store, or you can pay extra if you cannot get to a store. Fair enough I suppose.

I suggest calling a store and reserving if you are near one.

Maybe someone can buy bulk and remail cheaper than $25 but how much would someone pay?

They have a promo on cheaper phones with air time, Nokia 1661 is $19 with $50. At least $20 off. There was a sign on the door said 50% off phone with $100 topup but you best phone and confirm. That's $20 to $60 off their lineup.

Most stores I called said "Wednesday" so call one then. Too successful.

[gaogao]

one question,

is there difference if I buy the top-ups in different places, such like AB and ON since they have different Tax rate?

[artofwar]

Do the apps work any better if you root your android and run the autoproxy?

Which apps officially work with android gingerbread 2.3+


1)It works when you put it in 2G but it's much slower.
2)I'm not totally sure whether or not it's compressed but the images are very clear when browsing in 3G. In 2G there are blocks on the images.
3)I'm using android and most apps won't work.

[fairykingprawn]

Do the apps work any better if you root your android and run the autoproxy?

Which apps officially work with android gingerbread 2.3+

Actually the only app that works for me is the daily briefing widget on android 2.2.1. Heard others can get almost all of the apps to work after rooting the phone and installing a proxy program. I'm searching for imformation about that now but I never rooted a phone before.

[gaogao]

https://www.speakout7eleven.ca/support/faq

one question about activation

there is a 7-digit activation code and 5-digit Store # printed on the quick start guide,

did they gave them to us when we bought it seperately ? or they are inside the sim card pakage?

Thanks a lot!

[artofwar]

Just wondering if anyone knows if generally more apps work with Iphone 4 or rooted android phones through speakout?

[fairykingprawn]

When I registered online yesterday and I only need to enter the 9 digits activation code on the back of the sim card packaging and the imei number of my phone. They also ask you to make up a 4 digits pin number and choose your location. That's all.


https://www.speakout7eleven.ca/support/faq

one question about activation

there is a 7-digit activation code and 5-digit Store # printed on the quick start guide,

did they gave them to us when we bought it seperately ? or they are inside the sim card pakage?

Thanks a lot!

[Bugs119]

Anyone know the Find my Iphone app work with speakout data plan?

[gaogao]

When I registered online yesterday and I only need to enter the 9 digits activation code on the back of the sim card packaging and the imei number of my phone. They also ask you to make up a 4 digits pin number and choose your location. That's all.

thanks a lot,
i am just wondering whether I can change my cell phone in the future

[fairykingprawn]

The 3g signal is on and off for me right now. I had to switch back to 2g+3g mode. For those who has been with SpeakOut, is it always like that? Are you guys able to get uninterrupted 3g signal?

[M-e-X-x]

The 3g signal is on and off for me right now. I had to switch back to 2g+3g mode. For those who has been with SpeakOut, is it always like that? Are you guys able to get uninterrupted 3g signal?

Absolutely. I disabled 2G on my phone. 3G service has been solid.

[mtseymourguy]

If you make a lot of long-distance calls, can you get one sim card for each area code and get free long-distance? If you are calling within your area code is it always counted as a local call?

[boblepp]

one question,

is there difference if I buy the top-ups in different places, such like AB and ON since they have different Tax rate?

Nice catch!!

I too wonder, do they use the area code of the phone or the IP address of your PC to determine province???

If anyone has a chance to try being "in Alberta" for an Ontario area code phone.... please post?

[iEye]

I hope Rogers just gets to the pont and release the $10 100MB with $0.05/MB add on for Paygo already...

I need straight data...

[bylo]

I hope Rogers just gets to the pont and release the $10 100MB with $0.05/MB add on for Paygo already.
Even that is a gigantic ripoff. In Europe I pay about 1/10th of that (€10 per GB that doesn't expire for a year) with up to 7Mb/s speeds.

[morris_the_cat]

Has anyone found any of these sim cards in GVRD? Everywhere I go the counter staff say they don't sell them, even though I point out their sign saying they do. Then they say they don't have any. One guy said they have been ordered, but not in yet....

[bcwubby]

Has anyone found any of these sim cards in GVRD? Everywhere I go the counter staff say they don't sell them, even though I point out their sign saying they do. Then they say they don't have any. One guy said they have been ordered, but not in yet....

I bought a sim from the 7-11 at the corner of No. 3 Road and Blundell in Richmond. The sim card was hanging at the display rack. All I did was take it to the cashier - who I note, wondered what it was I was buying :)

[jason9945]

If anyone wants to buy my activated sim PM me, I was going to switch over but got a sweet retentions deal from telus.

Sim has been cut down to fit an iPhone, and activated with a Toronto number. $15 remaining on account.

Best offer!

Ideally meet up anywhere along the danforth subway.

[Kurtz7834]

If anyone has seen these in west end GTA PM me please.

I went to the Islington and Queensway store, and the clerk claimed that don't sell these in store, but said that I could call Speakout and they'd mail out the SIMs. So those in areas without 7-11s should look into this.

[boblepp]

If you make a lot of long-distance calls, can you get one sim card for each area code and get free long-distance? If you are calling within your area code is it always counted as a local call?

For Petro Canada (and MAYBE SO) you remain in your area code for calls out regardless of your physical location. If the phone is area 250 BC and you visit Toronto, you can call free to 250 etc. but to call a 416 number is LD. Strange but true since I had to call to clarify the issue for a visitor. I assume a call in from any area code is still the normal local call cost.

[DJDiggler]

Well I just recived a message from rogers today saying my prepaid $10 Unlimited Mobile Browsing option "expires" on Sept 11... :( (not sure if this means the option is no longer available to anyone or is because I used 2gb plus last month :confused: ) They offer a paltry 100mb for $10 now! :mad: I have a old nokia 5800 I bought solely to use on UMB so am hoping speakout still has this option? Any other providers?

[Chocolinx]

Actually the only app that works for me is the daily briefing widget on android 2.2.1. Heard others can get almost all of the apps to work after rooting the phone and installing a proxy program. I'm searching for imformation about that now but I never rooted a phone before.

That sounds really interesting. I'm looking into this. It'd make the prepaid SIM super duper attractive now. I wanted it before but if I can do this, that's even more awesome. SpeakOut is on 3G too now right? I'm thinking if I can setup a proxy and redirect all the information via my web server that'd be pretty cool.

[KrayZeeMofo]

last time i checked, spadina and college had a few left (about a dozen)

[paulreeves1138]

I just got my SIM card in Calgary, Hidden Valley. They just got them in today. :cheesygri

Thanks OP.

[Messerschmitt]

If anyone has seen these in west end GTA PM me please.

I went to the Islington and Queensway store, and the clerk claimed that don't sell these in store, but said that I could call Speakout and they'd mail out the SIMs. So those in areas without 7-11s should look into this.

I already mailed out 5 SIM's to people in ON and NS. My offer is still available to mail them for whomever does not have a 7-11 close to them, or they have none in stock.
I believe someone said it costs 25$ + tax to get them mailed from speakout, so about 28.25 total.

[scv]

Has anyone found any of these sim cards in GVRD? Everywhere I go the counter staff say they don't sell them, even though I point out their sign saying they do. Then they say they don't have any. One guy said they have been ordered, but not in yet....



I can confirm that this is available at the Dunsmuir and Seymour 7-11 Location in Downtown Vancouver.

I purchased this prior to the thread being posted. I asked the cashier, he immediately knew what it was, and I didn't have any issues.

I don't see any reason why they would stop selling these, although it might be best to call first.

[Eduardo]

Went to 5 places in Winnipeg with no luck. No one knew what I was talking about, 3 of them went to look behind counter/in back.

Are the sim cards, with all the other cards, or behind the counter? They all have the banner advertising them, one 7-11 had a card to take to the counter, but the guy had no idea said try back later. :(

[tztz]

If you make a lot of long-distance calls, can you get one sim card for each area code and get free long-distance? If you are calling within your area code is it always counted as a local call?

Long distance rules:
Outgoing calls: based on physical location and destination number location, so if you are in Toronto calling Toronto, it doesn't matter what your number is (yes, if you have Vancouver number) it is still a local call, but a Vancouver number call back home in Toronto will be considered long distance.

Incoming calls: based on your local number location and your physical location, so if you have a Vancouver number in Toronto, a call from Toronto to your number will make both of you pay long distance.

So, remember, if you are out of your local area, receive calls are always long distance, making calls may not be. As long as you always call the numbers where you are, you don't pay long distance.

[jparasite]

7-11 in Hidden Valley still has about 5 or so about 2 hours ago when I went to buy one.

[snellas]

Nokia 1616 $19 deal with $50 voucher still on as just purchased.
Thanks to poster of this SIM deal!

[sk1d]

Went to 5 places in Winnipeg with no luck. No one knew what I was talking about, 3 of them went to look behind counter/in back.

Are the sim cards, with all the other cards, or behind the counter? They all have the banner advertising them, one 7-11 had a card to take to the counter, but the guy had no idea said try back later. :(


Grant and Staffard has a package of them. Looks like I was the first one to buy one. First guy I asked didn't have a clue what I was talking about, but the other guy over heard and knew what was going on.

For those of you with with Android, give "ProxyDroid" a try. If the 'Global' setting doesn't work, try individually selecting the apps you need. A lot more apps work, but not all, and it's kinda slow.

[gaogao]

if I active my sim card on 1st september , when they deduct $1.25 for 911 services? this month or next month?

[gaogao]

does the $10 sim come with $5 airtime?

[Kurtz7834]

Jane and Wilson 7 Eleven has a whole bunch of these SIM cards. Most stores have them hidden behind the counter as they are very stealable, so you have to ask for them.

[bylo]

if I active my sim card on 1st september , when they deduct $1.25 for 911 services? this month or next month?
It doesn't matter when you activate it. They deduct the $1.25 on each monthly anniversary. For example if you activate today they'll deduct on the 10th of every month.

(FWIW when I activated several SIMs a few years ago to the best of my recollection the 911 fee didn't get deducted until the start of the second month. But that was a few years ago and I don't fully trust my memory.)

[gaogao]

It doesn't matter when you activate it. They deduct the $1.25 on each monthly anniversary. For example if you activate today they'll deduct on the 10th of every month.

(FWIW when I activated several SIMs a few years ago to the best of my recollection the 911 fee didn't get deducted until the start of the second month. But that was a few years ago and I don't fully trust my memory.)

thanks , I am just thinking if I active it for a AB local number and top up it and then change to NS local cell number, I may save money as well

[bigbug]

How much does the 3G data cost?

[duckdown]

I wish the price of the SMS was just a bit more affordable :( I was chewing through those $25 airtime cards in literally days, it almost seemed like they were using up EXTRA of my remaining credits they would just disappear so fast...

[UTSC]

My sister is with Fido and is travelling overseas for about 6 months. Although she will not be using the phone she would like to see the call display to see who called and also to receive free incoming text messages while being abroad. The cheapest Fido plan with CID seems to be $15/month so SpeakOut wireless seems to be a great option if they have roaming outside North America.

Thank you in advance

[Kurtz7834]

I wish the price of the SMS was just a bit more affordable :( I was chewing through those $25 airtime cards in literally days, it almost seemed like they were using up EXTRA of my remaining credits they would just disappear so fast...

Speakout is not designed for heavy use. If you're a heavy user there are much better plans and options elsewhere. There is also an option that includes 2500 outgoing texts for $10. Incoming texts are free which is much better than most of the other carriers.

[Kurtz7834]

I think I might have mistyped my IMEI number when trying to activate the SIM card. Is the proper IMEI number necessary to do so?

[apvm]

I think I might have mistyped my IMEI number when trying to activate the SIM card. Is the proper IMEI number necessary to do so?

It does not matter, I use an old phone which I don't use anymore to activate.

[icemasta]

I think I might have mistyped my IMEI number when trying to activate the SIM card. Is the proper IMEI number necessary to do so?

Considering you can use the SIM on any GSM phone, it shouldn't matter.

[icemasta]

Does the actual IMEI of the phone you're using to activate have to be entered?

It shouldn't matter. 7-11 can be used in any GSM phone regardless of which IMEI you initially used.

[bylo]

SpeakOut wireless seems to be a great option if they have roaming outside North America
As stated numerous times on this thread and others on RFD, SpeakOut doesn't roam outside of Canada — not even in the US.

[apvm]

Does the actual IMEI of the phone you're using to activate have to be entered?

No, i think they only need it so they would know what type of phone you are using to make sure it is compatible with the sim card.

[gaogao]

got from Messerschmitt , thanks !

[duckdown]

Speakout is not designed for heavy use. If you're a heavy user there are much better plans and options elsewhere. There is also an option that includes 2500 outgoing texts for $10. Incoming texts are free which is much better than most of the other carriers.

Interesting.. So how do I go about getting the 2500 for 10 deal? I buy the 10 dollar SIM card, then what is the next step? I'd go back to SpeakOut for that.

[jason9945]

Interesting.. So how do I go about getting the 2500 for 10 deal? I buy the 10 dollar SIM card, then what is the next step? I'd go back to SpeakOut for that.

Login to the website and add the package. Or call in and add in the package on the phone.

Buy the sim and top Up, activate online, add the messaging option online and you're set!

[jason9945]

Does anyone know if speakout supports call forwarding?

[jenviea]

Does anyone know if speakout supports call forwarding?
Apparently not
http://www.speakoutwireless.ca/
#32. Does Speak Out Wireless provide a call forwarding service?
No, call forwarding is not available, not even as an add-on.

[jason9945]

Apparently not
http://www.speakoutwireless.ca/
#32. Does Speak Out Wireless provide a call forwarding service?
No, call forwarding is not available, not even as an add-on.

Lame! I browsed the official site but never thought of looking there! Doh!

Thanks.

[Eduardo]

wow trying to do a number transfer, and the customer service number has been an automated "all circuits are busy now" message for over an 3.5 hours!

Not great service... hopefully once this is running I won't need service.

[Kurtz7834]

wow trying to do a number transfer, and the customer service number has been an automated "all circuits are busy now" message for over an 3.5 hours!

Not great service... hopefully once this is running I won't need service.

They are having system problems today. I have been unable to properly activate a SIM all afternoon and the CSR confirmed they are having system problems when I called. I would suggest waiting until tomorrow when they have hopefully fixed their problems.

[Kurtz7834]

Nokia 1616 $19 deal with $50 voucher still on as just purchased.
Thanks to poster of this SIM deal!

I looked into this as essentially you get the phone for $10 (if you factor in that the SIM alone costs $10).

However, the Nokia 1616 is an awful phone - no bluetooth, no PC connectivity whatsoever, no data capabilities. It's like using a phone from 2005. There is no way to import or export data to or from the phone without manually entering it in. This alone makes me avoid the phone but according to Amazon.com reviews the signal quality and speakers are very poor as well. No Bluetooth makes the phone largely useless in a car due to the handsfree cell phone law in ontario.

I decided to put that $10 towards a better phone. I would recommend the C3. I am using one of the unlocked $100 BB 9100s from Virgin with Speakout.

[KrayZeeMofo]

has anyone had any trouble registering their sim?...i've registered online, and it says 'Congrats! Your phone number is:'....and that's it; there's no phone number. Also, my phone says that it's an unregistered sim...any advice?

[duckdown]

RFD Effect?

[nabate]

i activated an port a phone sim # earlier this week with no problems.

[KrayZeeMofo]

RFD Effect?

lol. i've tried to contact their support number as well (1-866-310-1023) and it seems to be constantly busy (i've tried a dozen times within the last hour).

edit: by constantly busy, i mean that i am receiving only the busy signal and no automated message

[Kurtz7834]

has anyone had any trouble registering their sim?...i've registered online, and it says 'Congrats! Your phone number is:'....and that's it; there's no phone number. Also, my phone says that it's an unregistered sim...any advice?

I had the same problem. I phoned and the CSR told me they are having system problems. I'm going to try again tomorrow.

[KrayZeeMofo]

I had the same problem. I phoned and the CSR told me they are having system problems. I'm going to try again tomorrow.

thanks. guess that's all i can do as well.

[jason9945]

Well, I got bored tonight and decided to see if I could get this working with my data stick.... SUCCESS!!

But damn its slow! http://www.speedtest.net/result/1427100219.png

[jerryhung]

Confirmed SIM card in stock at Waterloo 7-11 (University & Bridge)
They just got them recently too

Just as I left, a man was buying a $50 phone with $20 credit... wow, didn't know SpeakOut is that popular in-store :)

[g man]

I already mailed out 5 SIM's to people in ON and NS. My offer is still available to mail them for whomever does not have a 7-11 close to them, or they have none in stock.
I believe someone said it costs 25$ + tax to get them mailed from speakout, so about 28.25 total.

Make it 6, likely see mine by Friday. Nice of you to help out, good way for us OOS people in the east to get one. Thanks again.

[hdefjunkie]

Well, I got bored tonight and decided to see if I could get this working with my data stick.... SUCCESS!!

But damn its slow! http://www.speedtest.net/result/1427100219.png

Which data stick are you using? I've got an unlocked WIND E1691 and only get edge speeds which amounts to half of what you're getting. Though
it's a Petro Can SIM. Funny enough do get 3G in a Blackberry.

[jason9945]

Which data stick are you using? I've got an unlocked WIND E1691 and only get edge speeds which amounts to half of what you're getting. Though
it's a Petro Can SIM. Funny enough do get 3G in a Blackberry.

I've got the same stick.

In the wind software it says the network is "EDGE Speakout" so I'd assume I'm on edge as well. The profile editor says I'm on 2g.

I've tried the sim in my iPhone and the speed test app doesn't work, so I haven't tested to see if I get 3g or not.

[bt101]

Does anybody know if you can put the Speakout SIM in one of those Chinese JAVA phones and be able to use the Opera browser? Thanks.

[erichau]

The 3g signal is on and off for me right now. I had to switch back to 2g+3g mode. For those who has been with SpeakOut, is it always like that? Are you guys able to get uninterrupted 3g signal?

Stick to one or the other, their 3G can be pretty weak sometimes, then it falls to 2G...
3G mode is usually prefered on phones, so it spazzes back and forth

[duckdown]

Any encrypted SMS or IM clients?

[M-e-X-x]

Well, I got bored tonight and decided to see if I could get this working with my data stick.... SUCCESS!!

But damn its slow! http://www.speedtest.net/result/1427100219.png


Which data stick are you using? I've got an unlocked WIND E1691 and only get edge speeds which amounts to half of what you're getting. Though
it's a Petro Can SIM. Funny enough do get 3G in a Blackberry.

http://www.mobilespeedtest.com/results/112108390.jpg

Just tested with my Nokia N95 and the built-in browser. 3G signal for test.

[hdefjunkie]

http://www.mobilespeedtest.com/results/112108390.jpg

Just tested with my Nokia N95 and the built-in browser. 3G signal for test.

Interesting to say the least, when you pump more data through the mobilespeedtest.com

Here's what I got:

Data stick 236.8Kbps DUN sync:
784 KBPS [100K]
3053 KBPS [500K]
5369 KBPS [1MB]
10667 KBPS [2MB]
12121 KBPS [3MB]
16667 KBPS [5MB]
20290 KBPS [7MB]

Edit: Results really depend on how busy the wireless network is as results drop real fast. Getting half of the above after running test 15min later

[kungfupanda]

I already mailed out 5 SIM's to people in ON and NS. My offer is still available to mail them for whomever does not have a 7-11 close to them, or they have none in stock.
I believe someone said it costs 25$ + tax to get them mailed from speakout, so about 28.25 total.

got my 7-11 sim from him today fast shipping, he is not trying to make big profit just trying to help ppl who can't get the sim. very good guy

[hdefjunkie]

I already mailed out 5 SIM's to people in ON and NS. My offer is still available to mail them for whomever does not have a 7-11 close to them, or they have none in stock.
I believe someone said it costs 25$ + tax to get them mailed from speakout, so about 28.25 total.

I got my 2 SIM's today and activated.. Thanks again. Nice to see folks helping others out.

[iEye]

FYI, in 30 days Rogers will be ending the $10 unlimited browsing option..

it will be replaced by $10 for 100MB..

I have no idea if this will also replace 7-11 and Petro Canada also...

I did not bother to top up my Petro Canada sim card.. I am going to let it burn the number out...

[fastlayne]

^ How much for 200MB? $00 ;)

[iEye]

^ How much for 200MB? $00 ;)

HaHA fixed

$10 for 100MB

Kaspersky is acting up, does not like speedtest png. reports as malicious...

[MafiaHitman]

Still looking for a $10 Speakout Sim anywhere is SE Calgary.

Tried all the stores, and none have them in yet.

I need to replace my "faulty" original Speakout Sim.

[ARK]

If anyone in West Mississauga looking for a SIM, 7/11 store at Thomas and 9th Line has 6 left in stock.

Just picked up one

[zdkj]

Picked up 2 in Aurora. I'm very happy for that.

[chinesedevil]

Perfect for low usage people!

[McLaren]

Can you just activate the sim card without a voucher and it will still be active or will it expire?

[eurekabru]

I got my 2 SIM's today and activated.. Thanks again. Nice to see folks helping others out.

Got mine today as well. Good man this Messerschmitt.

[bridonca]

Does anybody know if you can put the Speakout SIM in one of those Chinese JAVA phones and be able to use the Opera browser? Thanks.

yeah, there is a decent chance you can get Speakout data working on those phones, but it will be an absolute miserable experience. The phones are underpowered, the UI is horrid, and then there is the suspect quality. Give me your money if you want to waste it.

You can get a good phone on kijiji for a better price, and it will actually work.

[bridonca]

Can you just activate the sim card without a voucher and it will still be active or will it expire?

I do not believe the $10 SIM cards come with any airtime, so it will not be much use to you unless you add a voucher. I believe the SIM expires after 45 days when there is no positive balance for that period of time. When you do add the voucher, a retroactive monthly system access fee will be billed. So don't activate the SIM until you need it.

I am pretty sure unused vouchers last at least a year, and un-activated SIM cards probably last longer. Best option is to buy the SIM, and activate it when you need it, then buy and use airtime for it.

[inocent]

Actually you get $5 airtime when you activate the sim card, at least I did.

[appleb]

I'm currently on Fido Prepaid with a Fido phone (probably locked). Assuming I can unlock the phone, can I just buy a speakout sim and keep my old fido number?

[Tender]

I do not believe the $10 SIM cards come with any airtime, so it will not be much use to you unless you add a voucher. I believe the SIM expires after 45 days when there is no positive balance for that period of time. When you do add the voucher, a retroactive monthly system access fee will be billed. So don't activate the SIM until you need it.

I am pretty sure unused vouchers last at least a year, and un-activated SIM cards probably last longer. Best option is to buy the SIM, and activate it when you need it, then buy and use airtime for it.

So there is no restriction on when you have to activate the SIM? In that case I can just buy one and activate when I really need it?

[boblepp]

I'm currently on Fido Prepaid with a Fido phone (probably locked). Assuming I can unlock the phone, can I just buy a speakout sim and keep my old fido number?

Yes, activate and take the number they assign. Then you can request them to port you out from Fido.

[nicknam4e]

I wonder how to get SpeakOut SIM at Montreal :-? **********************

[eurekabru]

Anyone else having trouble activating online ? It hasn't worked since yesterday and it keeps telling me to try again later.

[bridonca]

So there is no restriction on when you have to activate the SIM? In that case I can just buy one and activate when I really need it?

I had a unactivated SIM in a drawer for 8 months before I activated it. I suspect you could do that for years, but it might be wiser to activate the SIM within a year.

[Kurtz7834]

So there is no restriction on when you have to activate the SIM? In that case I can just buy one and activate when I really need it?

Within reason, sure. I can't see why they'd refuse to activate an old SIM at any point, that's just throwing away money and a potential customer. However, keep in mind that Speakout service may not be around forever, it already folded in the States. So I wouldn't stockpile a huge amount of unused SIMs.

[bilaliz]

i am not confident on mobilespeedtest.com's results, but i am attaching them here anyways, speedtest.net app seems more accurate.

http://img694.imageshack.us/img694/378/img0273l.png
http://img88.imageshack.us/img88/7730/img0244.png

[shopper_of_things]

I do not believe the $10 SIM cards come with any airtime, so it will not be much use to you unless you add a voucher. I believe the SIM expires after 45 days when there is no positive balance for that period of time. When you do add the voucher, a retroactive monthly system access fee will be billed. So don't activate the SIM until you need it.

I am pretty sure unused vouchers last at least a year, and un-activated SIM cards probably last longer. Best option is to buy the SIM, and activate it when you need it, then buy and use airtime for it.

Just to clarify for new customers -- unactivated vouchers expire 90 days after purchase. Once activated the credits last 1 year + old unused credits are carried over.

Having said that, once due to my own stupidity, I activated my voucher on the 91st day but it still worked! YMMV.

[mcaj2]

FYI, in 30 days Rogers will be ending the $10 unlimited browsing option..
it will be replaced by $10 for 100MB..
I have no idea if this will also replace 7-11 and Petro Canada also...
I did not bother to top up my Petro Canada sim card.. I am going to let it burn the number out...

I'm already a speakout user and I was thinking of activating the "unlimited browsing" option. But, is this "browing" the same as "data"? Like, can the apps use data or can I make Skype calls over 3G. "Unlimited data" seems too good to be true for $10.

[jason9945]

I'm already a speakout user and I was thinking of activating the "unlimited browsing" option. But, is this "browing" the same as "data"? Like, can the apps use data or can I make Skype calls over 3G. "Unlimited data" seems too good to be true for $10.

Already answered in this thread.... First page....

But its WAP browsing, not regular data. No Skype. Most iPhone apps work, no email, and everything goes through a proxy server. Anything using port 80 works pretty much.

[packet1]

Just to clarify for new customers -- unactivated vouchers expire 90 days after purchase. Once activated the credits last 1 year + old unused credits are carried over.

Having said that, once due to my own stupidity, I activated my voucher on the 91st day but it still worked! YMMV.

where did you get the 90 days? from the FAQ on their website: http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/support/faq

“How long do I have to add my airtime voucher?” question arrow
“You have 365 days to activate your airtime voucher from the time of purchase. During leap years, you have an extra day on top of the 365 days. Once activated, your airtime is good for a year. You should keep your voucher in a safe place because it cannot be replaced. Also, you may want to write down your voucher PIN number somewhere in ink, as the number on your voucher may fade over time. Better safe than sorry, that’s how we roll.”

[iverdus]

where did you get the 90 days? from the FAQ on their website: http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/support/faq

“How long do I have to add my airtime voucher?” question arrow
“You have 365 days to activate your airtime voucher from the time of purchase. During leap years, you have an extra day on top of the 365 days. Once activated, your airtime is good for a year. You should keep your voucher in a safe place because it cannot be replaced. Also, you may want to write down your voucher PIN number somewhere in ink, as the number on your voucher may fade over time. Better safe than sorry, that’s how we roll.”


+1

Purchased a voucher in Sept 2010, just activated last week - no prob

[g man]

got my 7-11 sim from him today fast shipping, he is not trying to make big profit just trying to help ppl who can't get the sim. very good guy


I got my 2 SIM's today and activated.. Thanks again. Nice to see folks helping others out.


Got mine today as well. Good man this Messerschmitt.

Yes, add my cheers to the list, good to see someone helping out others on RFD. Got my SIM Monday, up and running in an old unlocked Rogers pay-go phone, going to be a back up/emergency phone.

thanks again!

[shopper_of_things]

where did you get the 90 days? from the FAQ on their website: http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/support/faq

“How long do I have to add my airtime voucher?” question arrow
“You have 365 days to activate your airtime voucher from the time of purchase. During leap years, you have an extra day on top of the 365 days. Once activated, your airtime is good for a year. You should keep your voucher in a safe place because it cannot be replaced. Also, you may want to write down your voucher PIN number somewhere in ink, as the number on your voucher may fade over time. Better safe than sorry, that’s how we roll.”

They must have changed the policy since last year. Thanks for pointing it out for us old customers. It's nice to see this service improved dramatically in the last little while.

[Messerschmitt]

Really glad you guys all got it by mail :)

[Cartman_guy]

I picked up a sim card at the 7-11 location on Gateway Blvd and about 30th ave (in the Petro-can) yesterday. They didn't have them out on the floor but when I asked about them the guy said they didn't have any. Then I saw them packed up and sitting on their shelf so I pointed it out. They didn't even know they had them. Anyway I bought one, just for experimenting purposes.

Activated it with an old unlocked quad band phone and seems to work, but gives $0.00 balance to start out with. So you do need to buy a voucher to really get going. Now I want to find out how hard it is to switch the sim to another unlocked phone.

Hedging this option for my mom in case Telus offers a lame or no retentions thing to me for her. She has been paying $53/month for the last 3 years for a crappy basic voice plan! Can you believe that?! Frik.

[eurekabru]

I'm still unable to activate my sim through the website. Has anybody been able to activate through the website since Monday?

I called customer service and was told they were closed...

What does the phone activation do exactly ? Assign a phone number ? When i turn on my phone with the sim card in it tells me I'm on the Speakout network and I got a text saying i can activate my voicemail by pressing 1.

[michelkenny]

I'm still unable to activate my sim through the website. Has anybody been able to activate through the website since Monday?

I called customer service and was told they were closed...

What does the phone activation do exactly ? Assign a phone number ? When i turn on my phone with the sim card in it tells me I'm on the Speakout network and I got a text saying i can activate my voicemail by pressing 1.

If you have a phone number and can make a call, you're good to go.

[eurekabru]

Just got off the phone with customer service. 7/11 Sim cards don't work in Quebec. You need a Petro-Canada sim card.

Anybody need a sim card ? PM me.

Edit: That was bullcrap. The rep didn't know what she was talking about. The activation code was broken apparently. Their IT guy solved the problem.

[p1llar]

Are you able to transfer your # over when activating the sim card?!

[mcaj2]

They must have changed the policy since last year. Thanks for pointing it out for us old customers. It's nice to see this service improved dramatically in the last little while.

+1
Their service has definitely improved. You can now register online and do stuff like topping-up, adding features etc. The closest 7-11 for me is 15km away, so this a welcome change. They've also made a conscious effort to add new add-ons while keeping prices in check. Its good to see a gradual change in Canadian telecom, in general.

[gobbledygoo]

I'm still unable to activate my sim through the website. Has anybody been able to activate through the website since Monday?

I called customer service and was told they were closed...

What does the phone activation do exactly ? Assign a phone number ? When i turn on my phone with the sim card in it tells me I'm on the Speakout network and I got a text saying i can activate my voicemail by pressing 1.

Yeah I couldn't get the web activation to work so I ended up calling them (their hours I think are 9am - 1am EST?) and got activated in less than 5min. Once you're activated agent will tell you what your phone # is.

But of course you then need to add an air time voucher as the SIM itself doesn't come with bonus $5 airtime like the ones you get w/ a phone purchase.

[aasoror]

Now I want to find out how hard it is to switch the sim to another unlocked phone.

get the first phone (A) with the SIM card pre installed next to second phone (B) with no sim card.
make sure both phones are turned off.
Remove phone batteries as per the instruction manual for each phone.
remove SIM from phone A, place it into phone B.
return phone batteries as per the instruction manual for each phone.
Turn on phone (B).
You are done :)

[MikeMurphy]

I need data settings for android!! I can't find anything that works :( Can't get data working on my nexus one :( :(

ON another note, found lots of these sim cards are the 7-11 at 16th and 24th ave in South Surrey. They are behind the counter in the cabinet.

[bridonca]

I need data settings for android!! I can't find anything that works :( Can't get data working on my nexus one :( :(

ON another note, found lots of these sim cards are the 7-11 at 16th and 24th ave in South Surrey. They are behind the counter in the cabinet.

APN goam.com
Proxy 10.128.1.69
Port 80
Username wapuser1
Password wap

You do know you have to call Speakout customer service to activate data first right? Also, only the browsing will work with Android phones unless you root the phone and play with iptables.

[bylo]

I need data settings for android!! I can't find anything that works :( Can't get data working on my nexus one :( :(
Try this (http://forums.redflagdeals.com/zellers-prepaid-samsung-gio-99-now-69-50k-hbc-points-1069878/10/#post13288192):
This is from another thread (Thanks to infamouskid) since I am too lazy to type in the Rogers APN info manually:

here is the only apn needed if you have an android or any smartphone that is unlocked. it should be entered like this. this will give you 3G data and MMS in one apn.

Name : Rogers Core
APN: rogers-core-appl1.apn
Proxy: <not set>
Port: <not set>
Username: <not set>
Password: <not set>
Server: <not set>
MMSC: http://mms.gprs.rogers.com
MMS Proxy: 10.128.1.69
MMS Port: 80
MCC: 302 (retrieved from SIM)
MNC: 720 (retrieved from SIM).
Authentication type: <not set>
APN type: <not set>

you can add this apn in your phone by going to settings -> Wireless and network -> mobile networks -> Access Point Names
also make sure you have a rogers sim that is version 3040 or higher (i.e. a recent less than 2 years old or so SIM card).

[funkydude101]

These expiry dates are good for GPS Trackers. 365 days for $25....(well +$10 for the sim)

I use them with these:
http://www.dealextreme.com/p/handheld-portable-mini-gsm-gprs-gps-vehicle-tracker-black-72133

You just call and it SMS's you back the location with a google maps link.

[ram77]

These expiry dates are good for GPS Trackers. 365 days for $25....(well +$10 for the sim)

I use them with these:
http://www.dealextreme.com/p/handheld-portable-mini-gsm-gprs-gps-vehicle-tracker-black-72133

You just call and it SMS's you back the location with a google maps link.
Kind of off-topic, but this is a pretty awesome price. I was going to make something like this for my bike, but I can't even get all the parts for that price... and that's discounting the many many hours it would take. I suppose I could still do it for 'fun' or maybe to fit a specific form factor (considering I wanted it for the bike). I have a pair of spare sims sitting around that I need a good use for :)

[chinabull]

Asking a favor here.

Wondering if anybody that lives near 7-eleven stores willing to help me to buy a speakout sim since I am in ottawa and they closed all the 7-11 stores years ago.
I am willing to pay $20 to you for buying the sim and mailing it to me.
Interact Money transfer or paypal, you pick.
I'll pay you first before you do the purchase.

Just PM me if anybody is interested.

[sheriffabc]

The sales girl knew all about it - in and out in 3 minutes! If you don't live in Niagara Falls - call that store and see if they willing to ship one out to you if you pay first!

[g man]

Asking a favor here.

Wondering if anybody that lives near 7-eleven stores willing to help me to buy a speakout sim since I am in ottawa and they closed all the 7-11 stores years ago.
I am willing to pay $20 to you for buying the sim and mailing it to me.
Interact Money transfer or paypal, you pick.
I'll pay you first before you do the purchase.

Just PM me if anybody is interested.

The man to see is Messerschmitt, has sent several out to fellow RFDers, read the previous page of this thread for details, shoot him a PM.

http://forums.redflagdeals.com/members/messerschmitt-171171/

[bylo]

I am willing to pay $20 to you for buying the sim and mailing it to me.
From the SpeakOut FAQ (http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/support/faq):

Q. How much are SIM cards?

A. SpeakOut Wireless SIM cards are available in stores for $10, plus tax. And hey, if you’re feeling generous, SpeakOut Wireless SIM cards are also available to purchase for $20 through Customer Care. Just call 1-866-310-1023 and pay for it with a SpeakOut Wireless airtime voucher. All SIM card sales are final and non-refundable. New accounts created with a SIM only product have no start up balance, so airtime must be purchased separately and added to your new account.

[nabate]

Anyone else interested send me a PM and i'll see what i can find.


Asking a favor here.

Wondering if anybody that lives near 7-eleven stores willing to help me to buy a speakout sim since I am in ottawa and they closed all the 7-11 stores years ago.
I am willing to pay $20 to you for buying the sim and mailing it to me.
Interact Money transfer or paypal, you pick.
I'll pay you first before you do the purchase.

Just PM me if anybody is interested.

[frankw]

Does anyone know if the Speakout sim will work in Nova Scotia? I have family in BC who can go pickup a couple of sims and vouchers and mail them out to me in Halifax. I figure to activate them via the website.

[emjhay]

Anyone onows where to buy one in toronto? Two of the 7/11 here apparently dont sell them.

[bridonca]

Does anyone know if the Speakout sim will work in Nova Scotia? I have family in BC who can go pickup a couple of sims and vouchers and mail them out to me in Halifax. I figure to activate them via the website.

I have a working Speakout SIM with a Halifax number. All of Nova Scotia and PEI is a local calling area!

I would call a Speakout Customer Service Representative to activate it though. Then buy the vouchers from the web site.

[kingfencer]

i bought mine at don mills and overlea

[jafo999]

The Pickering 7/11 store had a few when I was in there on the weekend. On the wall behind the cash, right side.

[pinkpt]

Anyone onows where to buy one in toronto? Two of the 7/11 here apparently dont sell them.

ive seen them at:
- bloor and spadina
- bathurst and 401
- rutherford road and keele (vaughn)

[YLSF]

ive seen them at:
- bloor and spadina
- bathurst and 401
- rutherford road and keele (vaughn)

I asked at the one on St. Clair and they said they had them (behind the counter). I don't know the exact location of this store since I was just walking by it. I think between Dufferin and Bathurst... somewhere around there.. you can call to verify. If you can't find the phone number on their site if you do a google search it might come up.

[YLSF]

These expiry dates are good for GPS Trackers. 365 days for $25....(well +$10 for the sim)

I use them with these:
http://www.dealextreme.com/p/handheld-portable-mini-gsm-gprs-gps-vehicle-tracker-black-72133

You just call and it SMS's you back the location with a google maps link.

Wow, that looks great... And I didn't realize that all of their refill options gives you 365 days expiry.

Anyone have links for alarm devices for something similar? Instead of calling the alarm company I can get a text sent to my cell phone?

[jason9945]

ive seen them at:
- bloor and spadina
- bathurst and 401
- rutherford road and keele (vaughn)

I'll add don mills and Overlea. Also queen e and larchmount in Leslieville.

[umlowcn]

I bought two. How long I can keep them inactivated?

[Tender]

Anyone using the $10 data add-on? How good is it?

[bridonca]

I bought two. How long I can keep them inactivated?
Probably indefinably, but good for at least a year. I had one inactive for 8 months before I decided to use it


Anyone using the $10 data add-on? How good is it?

It works, but if you are expecting full internet service, prepare for disappointment. What is promised is browsing, so if you can get it running through a proxy at port 80, it will probably work. Otherwise, not so much. Personally, I believe it is 10 bones well spent.

[Tender]

Probably indefinably, but good for at least a year. I had one inactive for 8 months before I decided to use it



It works, but if you are expecting full internet service, prepare for disappointment. What is promised is browsing, so if you can get it running through a proxy at port 80, it will probably work. Otherwise, not so much. Personally, I believe it is 10 bones well spent.

Thanks for the quick response. If I'm using an iPhone 3GS, will it work?

[bridonca]

Thanks for the quick response. If I'm using an iPhone 3GS, will it work?

Speakout data works rather well with a iPhone. Nokia phones are pretty good also. With Android, if you want to do more than browsing, you need to root the phone and edit IP tables.

[DJDiggler]

Any Idea if jokiuspot will work on a nokia 5800XM over speakout? I just bought a Asus Transformer and was all excited to tether to my rogers UMB... then @#$% rogers cancle it and offer a piddly 100mb for $10. :(

It's a symbian S60 phone rooted BTW.

[emjhay]

ive seen them at:
- bloor and spadina
- bathurst and 401
- rutherford road and keele (vaughn)

i tried rutherford road and keele but iw as told they dont sell them and i need to get a phone to get the speak out sim.

[kottmeier]

where to get a cheap android phone so i can put this card in?

Well, as a suggestion, I bought an HTC Magic on Kijiji for $70 (in excellent condition) and it works just great on Speakout. This is my first Android OS phone and it's pretty cool. TigerDirect.ca sells new unlocked cell phones at good prices and they have GSM phones too. They recently had an HTC MyTouch (same as Magic) but they do not have it currently. Hope this helps.

[fateh]

will it (sim) work on this fone?
can any1 suggest a better deal of unlocked LG xenon or samsung rumor for this sim plz?

[umlowcn]

Probably indefinably, but good for at least a year. I had one inactive for 8 months before I decided to use it

It looks like the activation code does not expire.

http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/support/faq#activation

[bridonca]

will it (sim) work on this fone?
can any1 suggest a better deal of unlocked LG xenon or samsung rumor for this sim plz?

The Speakout SIM card will work with any unlocked phone that takes a SIM card and works with any other North American carrier. CDMA phones will not work.

The Speakout SIM also works with locked Rogers phones.

The Speakout SIM will work with an unlocked LG Xenon but it will not work with a LG Rumor because the LG Rumor is a CDMA phone that does not accept SIM cards. I do not believe that a Samsung Rumor actually exists.

[umlowcn]

I bought two. How long I can keep them inactivated?

It looks like the activation code does not expire.

http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/support/faq#activation

I called customer service as well, I was told there is no expiry date.

[Tender]

OK, need some help here. I followed the steps on the SpeakOut Forum (http://www.speakoutwireless.ca/speak/phone-features/iphone-3gs-with-new-unlimited-data-plan/) to change the APN on unlocked iPhone 3GS. Although the settings look fine but I'm still getting "not connected to internet" error on the phone. Anyone? Thanks.

[technote]

OK, need some help here. I followed the steps on the SpeakOut Forum (http://www.speakoutwireless.ca/speak/phone-features/iphone-3gs-with-new-unlimited-data-plan/) to change the APN on unlocked iPhone 3GS. Although the settings look fine but I'm still getting "not connected to internet" error on the phone. Anyone? Thanks.

I had the same problem.

iPhone 3G locked to Rogers, activated the SIM and added UMB at the same time. Told me I will get a SMS message to notify me of the activation, however I never got it. Waited a couple hours, called 611 to confirm the UMB is indeed active, was told to shut the phone off and wait 5 minutes, even tried with a spare phone (Nokia N80), same result.

Finally called 611 again, request the CSR to try and reset my account, CSR told me to wait 10 minutes then try again. At first it was the same result, after a few refresh, the setting started to work, UMB started to work on both N80 and iPhone 3G.

Good luck.

[Tender]

:arrowu:Thanks. Actually called customer service earlier and the rep did a reset. Shut down the phone and waited for 10 minutes. Restarted the phone and it worked. Looks like the online add-on did not work for data. Anyway it's working now. Very glad to be free from Robbers.

[oh_me_oh_my]

Could someone please tell me why the WAP browsing works on an Iphone 2g on the Speakout prepaid plan, but not on the Rogers prepaid plan?

My understanding is that with Rogers, they screen the phones MEI# and identify it as a smartphone, and will therefore charge you more money for browsing?

Or is it all in the port set up that will allow me to bypass this through Speakout?

TIA

[oh_me_oh_my]

Could someone please tell me why the WAP browsing works on an Iphone 2g on the Speakout prepaid plan, but not on the Rogers prepaid plan?

My understanding is that with Rogers, they screen the phones MEI# and identify it as a smartphone, and will therefore charge you more money for browsing?

Or is it all in the port set up that will allow me to bypass this through Speakout?

TIA


Got my answer! Sorry folks...
http://www.speakoutwireless.ca/speak/technical-service-details/browsing-vs-data/

The purpose of Roger's Edge network was to allow for limited browsing using a phone for a browser. To do that, required all traffic to go through a proxy. Rogers set up multiple proxies to to allow access to certain services. You wanted multimedia services, there was a proxy for that for example. The problem was that it was a mess. When people got access to real internet, they left this service in droves. Rogers got stuck with an EDGE network no one wanted to use. So they rented out their excess capacity to Speakout and the like. Rogers realized they had to ease restrictions on web access, but the connection is still proxied, and it is not internet, because only port 80 is open. So calling this connection data is a bit of a misnomer.

[MikeMurphy]

Got my answer! Sorry folks...
http://www.speakoutwireless.ca/speak/technical-service-details/browsing-vs-data/

The purpose of Roger's Edge network was to allow for limited browsing using a phone for a browser. To do that, required all traffic to go through a proxy. Rogers set up multiple proxies to to allow access to certain services. You wanted multimedia services, there was a proxy for that for example. The problem was that it was a mess. When people got access to real internet, they left this service in droves. Rogers got stuck with an EDGE network no one wanted to use. So they rented out their excess capacity to Speakout and the like. Rogers realized they had to ease restrictions on web access, but the connection is still proxied, and it is not internet, because only port 80 is open. So calling this connection data is a bit of a misnomer.

Edge? Mine is 3G.

[oh_me_oh_my]

Another question for those using speakout UMB on their iphones, does the app textme work? TIA

[bridonca]

Edge? Mine is 3G.

You have a 3G connection because it is currently convenient for Rogers to do so. You can get switched back to EDGE anytime on the whim of Rogers. In any case you still have to go through a proxy.

[pacificstart]

Can someone confirm that a SpeakOut SIM will work in a Chatr phone? I know they both use the Rogers network, so it should work without doing any unlocking, but I just want to be sure before I pick up a SpeakOut SIM card.

Is the phone number already pre-assigned to these SIM cards, or do we have any options in selecting the number? Thanks.

I bet the Petrocanada SIM works as well in a Chatr phone but I haven't tried it yet.

[g man]

Can someone confirm that a SpeakOut SIM will work in a Chatr phone? I know they both use the Rogers network, so it should work without doing any unlocking, but I just want to be sure before I pick up a SpeakOut SIM card.

Is the phone number already pre-assigned to these SIM cards, or do we have any options in selecting the number? Thanks.

Yes, at least in the Chatr Nokia C3, works in an old unlocked Rogers paygo Samsung SGH-J706 I tried too. Seems any Rogers phone will do.

[althetrainer]

Okay folks, after reading all 21 pages, I am sold.

I have been with Rogers since 2004. I am a super light user - no more than 5 minutes a month. So paying almost $30 a month is just senseless. I called Rogers to state my case and asked for a better options. They first said to give me 40 minutes a month for $13. I said still expensive so they said they would cut it down to $8, 40 minutes a month. Okay, it was not bad an option. In that case, I could keep my phone number and I wouldn't have to get a new sim card and to unlock my phone.

I knew about this SpeakOut sim card and I wanted to give some more thoughts to it so I told Rogers that I would call them back to make a decision. The lady went to get a ref # for me but she was gone for a long time. When she came back she gave me the ref # then said that the $8/month offer could not be guaranteed if I didn't accept it right the way. I told her if they couldn't keep the offer when I called again so be it... I definitely would go with someone else.

So I started doing some research but initially couldn't find a nearby 7-Eleven so I called their US toll-free number. They were able to locate one only a couple a miles away from where I live. Awesome! I called the store and they indeed carried those sim cards.

Now, I understand this sim card will work with any Rogers locked phones but mine is a Motorola V360. Not sure if it's locked and I don't have a second card to test it. Is there any other way to find out if my phone locked or not? If it is locked, how do I unlock it so I can use the SO sim card? Any suggestions?

[sheriffabc]

use another sim card from any other phone - if the other card works - it is unlocked. Borrow one from a friend or go to any kiosk in a mall.

[bb2008]

use another sim card from any other phone - if the other card works - it is unlocked. Borrow one from a friend or go to any kiosk in a mall.

im a bit clueless when it comes to phones, so okay petro and speakout sim cards will work with rogers+unlocked phones, my question is if i buy a smartphone..will the internet on the phone be really slow if im connected to my wireless internet at home? i've read something about the EDGE network and all that, but i'll be connected to my high speed internet at home on my phone.

[hironomous]

Speakout data is usually running at 3G now and sometimes HSPA which means it should be close or the same in speed to most networks, if your phone has 3G capability. In fringe reception areas, it will likely drop to Edge which is slower (painfully slow on some phones).

Using WIFI to connect to your home interned connection does not involve the speakout network at all. You can even use WIFI without having the Speakout data plan activated and on many phones you can use WIFI with no simcard (network carrier) at all.

[althetrainer]

use another sim card from any other phone - if the other card works - it is unlocked. Borrow one from a friend or go to any kiosk in a mall.

I am a stay at home mom so don't get to see my friends too often so will have to wait until we have a meet-up. Go to any kiosk? Do they let you try their sim cards?

My second question is still unanswered. If my phone is locked, how do I unlock it? Suggestions, anyone?

[glalonde]

Settings I used, in a nicely document format.

http://www.binarysearchtree.com/review/speakout.shtml

[Tender]

...Now, I understand this sim card will work with any Rogers locked phones but mine is a Motorola V360. Not sure if it's locked and I don't have a second card to test it. Is there any other way to find out if my phone locked or not? If it is locked, how do I unlock it so I can use the SO sim card? Any suggestions?


I am a stay at home mom so don't get to see my friends too often so will have to wait until we have a meet-up. Go to any kiosk? Do they let you try their sim cards?

My second question is still unanswered. If my phone is locked, how do I unlock it? Suggestions, anyone?

Why do you want to unlock the phone if it works with SO? My understanding is any Rogers phone, locked or unlocked, should work on SO. I'm going to recharge an old Motorola V551 phone (locked to Rogers) and try it out. Will let you know.

[althetrainer]

Why do you want to unlock the phone if it works with SO? My understanding is any Rogers phone, locked or unlocked, should work on SO. I'm going to recharge an old Motorola V551 phone (locked to Rogers) and try it out. Will let you know.

Are you saying Motorola is the same as Rogers? I have no idea! All I know is that I've Rogers as provider and the brand of the phone is Motorola. If Motorola = Rogers, it will definitely save me a lot of trouble. In fact, I've found an old Nokia 3595 from years ago. I remember switching the sim card from the Nokia to my new Motorola and it worked. If I don't need to unlock the Motorola, I may not have to unlock the Nokia as well. Please let me know.

[Asad_A203]

Are you saying Motorola is the same as Rogers? I have no idea! All I know is that I've Rogers as provider and the brand of the phone is Motorola. If Motorola = Rogers, it will definitely save me a lot of trouble. In fact, I've found an old Nokia 3595 from years ago. I remember switching the sim card from the Nokia to my new Motorola and it worked. If I don't need to unlock the Motorola, I may not have to unlock the Nokia as well. Please let me know.

Phones are locked to carriers (Rogers/Bell/Telus/Sasktel/MTS/Fido/etc.), not manufacturers.

[Tender]

Are you saying Motorola is the same as Rogers? I have no idea! All I know is that I've Rogers as provider and the brand of the phone is Motorola. If Motorola = Rogers, it will definitely save me a lot of trouble. In fact, I've found an old Nokia 3595 from years ago. I remember switching the sim card from the Nokia to my new Motorola and it worked. If I don't need to unlock the Motorola, I may not have to unlock the Nokia as well. Please let me know.

Like the other poster said, the phones are locked to carriers. But Rogers let SO run on their network so as long as you got the phone from Rogers it'll be fine. In fact I justed tested a Motorola V3, V551 and an iPhone (all locked to Rogers). They all work on SO. It's the phones from Telus, Bell, etc. that will not work if locked.

Edit: Rogers, Bell, Telus, etc. are the carriers, while Motorola, Nokia, Apple, Samsung, etc. are the manufacturers of the phones.

[immortal_kssss]

I'm so intrested in this prepaid plan,but how can I use it with a laptop or tablet?I'd have bought an Ipad with 3g capabilities but lack of flash is a really turn off,can I tether it with a laptop or a tablet(I have 3g iphone)?

[DJDiggler]

Most phones can be used as a wireless hotspot (check the internet options). technicly it is against the terms of service to tether on speakout data

7-Eleven SpeakOut Wireless Unlimited
web add on cannot be used: (1) for
access to the Internet, intranets, or
other data networks except as the
device’s native applications and
capabilities permit, or (2) for any applications that tether your device to
laptops or personal computers other
than for the use of Wireless Sync

Howecer I dont think they can tell if you do so...

[althetrainer]

Like the other poster said, the phones are locked to carriers. But Rogers let SO run on their network so as long as you got the phone from Rogers it'll be fine. In fact I justed tested a Motorola V3, V551 and an iPhone (all locked to Rogers). They all work on SO. It's the phones from Telus, Bell, etc. that will not work if locked.

Edit: Rogers, Bell, Telus, etc. are the carriers, while Motorola, Nokia, Apple, Samsung, etc. are the manufacturers of the phones.

Ahh thank you for the info. I will go to 7-Eleven to get a sim card tomorrow to give it a try. Unfortunately, the old Nokia is not working... either the charger has stopped working or the battery is toasted. When I plugged in the screen showed charging but the battery wouldn't hold a charge. After a while, the charging stopped but battery icon remained empty. The charger also emitted a very faint hissing sound, whatever the problem was.

[VinRey38]

Can anyone confirm which stores in the GTA sell the SIM Card?

[Tender]

Ahh thank you for the info. I will go to 7-Eleven to get a sim card tomorrow to give it a try. Unfortunately, the old Nokia is not working... either the charger has stopped working or the battery is toasted. When I plugged in the screen showed charging but the battery wouldn't hold a charge. After a while, the charging stopped but battery icon remained empty. The charger also emitted a very faint hissing sound, whatever the problem was.

If you need a new cheap phone, how about $4 for a brand new Nokia 1661?

7-Eleven has a promotion that when you buy $50 voucher you get $20 off any phone. Use it on the Nokia 1661 they're selling for $39, you'll get a phone for $19 that comes with a sim card (worth $10) and $5 air time, which means you only need to pay $4 for the brand new phone itself. This is better than the buy $100 voucher for 50% off imo (for Nokia 1661):
http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/promotions

[Tender]

Can anyone confirm which stores in the GTA sell the SIM Card?

I've been to the stores at Bay & Richmond (downtown), Don Mills & Overlea and Rutherford & Weston, all have the sim cards. It seems like any store has it. Give the store a call before you go.

[althetrainer]

If you need a new cheap phone, how about $4 for a brand new Nokia 1661?

7-Eleven has a promotion that when you buy $50 voucher you get $20 off any phone. Use it on the Nokia 1661 they're selling for $39, you'll get a phone for $19 that comes with a sim card (worth $10) and $5 air time, which means you only need to pay $4 for the brand new phone itself. This is better than the buy $100 voucher for 50% off imo (for Nokia 1661):
http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/promotions

Wow, that sounds perfect! I saw the the phone was $39 - $20 = $19. But I didn't see anything about the sim card and $5 airtime. If it's true I definitely will get it for my 9 year old son for emergency purpose. He has just started taking the bus and I will feel better if he has a mean to call me when he needs help. Thank you very much. I definitely will go to 7-Eleven to look tomorrow.

[markj]

so did they change the data to 3g or is it still WAP? so android apps will work ok if phone is rooted? streaming music?

[crazi]

Guys SO removed their bundles, and instead replaced them with value plans.

[DavidM82]

I have been reading a few pages here and there, and I am still confused;

does this $25(mins) + $10(SIM) include web-browsing as well? (3g)?
I only plan to use this backup phone for social networking, just to have some fun etc.

also, according to OP, we can change area-code within 10 mins?
I travel within Canada alot, so if I can change the area-code (phone number) to wherever i am, that will be great.

Please advise. Thanks!

[DJDiggler]

I have been reading a few pages here and there, and I am still confused;

does this $25(mins) + $10(SIM) include web-browsing as well? (3g)?
I only plan to use this backup phone for social networking, just to have some fun etc.

also, according to OP, we can change area-code within 10 mins?
I travel within Canada alot, so if I can change the area-code (phone number) to wherever i am, that will be great.

Please advise. Thanks!

You pay $10 up front for the SIM card (it's a one time charge)... you must then add money to your account in whatever amount you want, $25, $35, $50, or $100. Whatever amount you buy it lasts for 1 year, then you either have to buy more airtime, ("resetting" the 1 year time limit), or you loose whatever balance you haven't used yet.
Charges are:
Regular Talk $0.25 per min
Long Distance $0.45 per min
Outgoing Text $0.10

If you want data you sign up for it and they automatically deduct $10 per month, (along with the stupid monthly 911 fee), for however long you want it... Same with there Value Plans (http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/rates-add-ons), they just deduct the monthly rate from your "balance" just be sure to have enough to cover it! It's great for a backup phone...I personally use my work phone for all my calls as it's free :) so all I do is buy a $100 voucher and have the $10 data, lasts me 9 months, (stupid 911 fee), then just top up again. sweet!

[l69norm]

so did they change the data to 3g or is it still WAP? so android apps will work ok if phone is rooted? streaming music?

it's still WAP but now it's over 3G. It works on android, but you need root on the phone. See the Speakout/Android thread in the cellular forum

[Tender]

Wow, that sounds perfect! I saw the the phone was $39 - $20 = $19. But I didn't see anything about the sim card and $5 airtime. If it's true I definitely will get it for my 9 year old son for emergency purpose. He has just started taking the bus and I will feel better if he has a mean to call me when he needs help. Thank you very much. I definitely will go to 7-Eleven to look tomorrow.

Yes it's true as I just got one for myself on Wednesday. I wanted a new sim card but snapped this since it's just $4 for a backup phone. The store clerk fisrt said the promotion was over but I told him it's showing on their website. He went back to check and came out said "Yep, it's still on." The only thing is you have to buy the $50 voucher and it lasts 365 days. So you want to make sure you can use that in a year. Or you can top up before that with another voucher and the balance will be carried forward to another year.

[hironomous]

so did they change the data to 3g or is it still WAP? so android apps will work ok if phone is rooted? streaming music?

They have always had 3g, although it is a little spotty depending on reception. WAP is the kind of access, not the speed, so it is still WAP even in 3g. The problem with the WAP browsing is not the speed so much as the fact that the service is ported, meaning they block most streaming etc., so 3g versus Edge doesn't matter in that regard. Using Koodo service (which is full access not WAP), I can download even when I set the phone to 2g, it just takes forever.

[DavidM82]

You pay $10 up front for the SIM card (it's a one time charge)... you must then add money to your account in whatever amount you want, $25, $35, $50, or $100. Whatever amount you buy it lasts for 1 year, then you either have to buy more airtime, ("resetting" the 1 year time limit), or you loose whatever balance you haven't used yet.
Charges are:
Regular Talk $0.25 per min
Long Distance $0.45 per min
Outgoing Text $0.10

If you want data you sign up for it and they automatically deduct $10 per month, (along with the stupid monthly 911 fee), for however long you want it... Same with there Value Plans (http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/rates-add-ons), they just deduct the monthly rate from your "balance" just be sure to have enough to cover it! It's great for a backup phone...I personally use my work phone for all my calls as it's free :) so all I do is buy a $100 voucher and have the $10 data, lasts me 9 months, (stupid 911 fee), then just top up again. sweet!

Thanks for the explaination, appreciated!
Seems like a very good deal, no wonder everyone is jumping on it :D

So if I only plan to do some minor SMS and browsing, that $25 initial credit should last around 2-months?
And the good thing is, it will work on a locked Rogers iphone?

Hows the browsing speed btw? is it 'acceptable'?
Thanks again

[althetrainer]

Yes it's true as I just got one for myself on Wednesday. I wanted a new sim card but snapped this since it's just $4 for a backup phone. The store clerk fisrt said the promotion was over but I told him it's showing on their website. He went back to check and came out said "Yep, it's still on." The only thing is you have to buy the $50 voucher and it lasts 365 days. So you want to make sure you can use that in a year. Or you can top up before that with another voucher and the balance will be carried forward to another year.

Sounds like you're lucky because the person you dealt with was easy going. I've read a few previous posts by different posters and they were rejected for the same reason. I am going to try my luck today. I don't mind getting two $25 vouchers because I will give the phone to my son who will need more than the $5 airtime that comes with the phone. Then I am going to cancel Rogers and get myself a sim card and will use the second voucher. So it should work out just right. If the store won't give me the promotion deal for the Nokia phone, I will just get a sim card and $25 voucher for myself. I am sure they will have other promotions down the road in the future.

[Tender]

...

[Tender]

Sounds like you're lucky because the person you dealt with was easy going. I've read a few previous posts by different posters and they were rejected for the same reason. I am going to try my luck today. I don't mind getting two $25 vouchers because I will give the phone to my son who will need more than the $5 airtime that comes with the phone. Then I am going to cancel Rogers and get myself a sim card and will use the second voucher. So it should work out just right. If the store won't give me the promotion deal for the Nokia phone, I will just get a sim card and $25 voucher for myself. I am sure they will have other promotions down the road in the future.

The promotion is on their website so I don't see how they can deny you.

On the other side, I don't know if buying two $25 voucher will work though. They may ask you to purchase a single $50 voucher. You may need to try your luck on this one.

[Tender]

Thanks for the explaination, appreciated!
Seems like a very good deal, no wonder everyone is jumping on it :D

So if I only plan to do some minor SMS and browsing, that $25 initial credit should last around 2-months?
And the good thing is, it will work on a locked Rogers iphone?

Hows the browsing speed btw? is it 'acceptable'?
Thanks again

The cost would be $10 + $1.25 (911) = $11.25 per month if you only use it for the data. Texting would be 10c per txt msg.

It works on a locked Rogers iPhone.

The browing speed is pretty good for me. But I only use it for checking weather, news, occasional web surfing, etc.

[icemasta]

They have always had 3g, although it is a little spotty depending on reception. WAP is the kind of access, not the speed, so it is still WAP even in 3g. The problem with the WAP browsing is not the speed so much as the fact that the service is ported, meaning they block most streaming etc., so 3g versus Edge doesn't matter in that regard. Using Koodo service (which is full access not WAP), I can download even when I set the phone to 2g, it just takes forever.

Can anyone that has the Speakout data add-on check if streaming flash video's from say Megavideo work? I know you said most but just wondering how limited most actually is.

[althetrainer]

The promotion is on their website so I don't see how they can deny you.

On the other side, I don't know if buying two $25 voucher will work though. They may ask you to purchase a single $50 voucher. You may need to try your luck on this one.

Just got back. I did get the cheap phone but not without a bit of hassle. When I got to the first store I saw only one poster - the $100 airtime for $50 off deal. Not a good sign for me but I gave it a shot anyway. As expected, they said the promotion was over last month. I supposed they could deny me because their site did mention something like "offer subject to change without notice". As I was walking out of the door, I turned around and mentioned that their promotion was still up on their site. They were about to say something when a lady walked in and said "Yup, they're still up. All of them, on the site." I felt encouraged because I thought it was another customer who wanted the same deal. It turned out she was the store manager. They went through their stock pile but didn't have the cheap ones. So she called around and found another store with the Nokia 1661. Off I went to the second store and bought the phone. And you're correct about not being able to buy two $25 vouchers. I had to buy one $50 for the deal. Well, not too bad... once I finish with Rogers (have to give them 30 days notice) I will use my son's cheap phone when he's not at school. I am sure with the two of us we can use as many minutes as we can. Plus, we can also buy another $25 before the years is out then the balance will get carried over to a new year.

I will charge the phone then register the sim card. If it works well I will get myself another sim card for my Motorola next month. If my son doesn't like the phone I will put his sim into my own phone and use the airtime too. It's a win-win! :razz:

[Jet2643]

I have an unlocked Samsung Galaxy Ace I bought from newegg.

Any guesses or anyone with experience on using this phone with SO? Its a great phone, and I have updated to latest android, so runs really, really well. Has wifi so when I am at home, don't need to use data plans.

Any thoughts or suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks

[l69norm]

I have an unlocked Samsung Galaxy Ace I bought from newegg.

Any guesses or anyone with experience on using this phone with SO? Its a great phone, and I have updated to latest android, so runs really, really well. Has wifi so when I am at home, don't need to use data plans.

Any thoughts or suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks

See the Speakout/Android thread in the cellular forum. Voice+sms will work as normal. If you want the $10/mo UMB quasi data to work, you'll have to root the phone and use an app like autoproxy

[althetrainer]

Okay, I activated the phone and it's working, so far so good. I have a few questions maybe some of you can help me.

1) When playing radio the volume is very loud. Is there a way to turn it down? I see a button on the bottom left with a "*" and a "+" signs also an icon I can't quite make out what it is. Thought it was the volume control, pressed it but nothing happened.

2) I have received the voicemail activate code in a text message. It told me to press and hold down #1 key and follow prompts. My problem is, I pressed and held down #1 key but didn't see any further instructions. It basically delayed the activating process for 10 minutes. I knew it was not being activated because 10 minutes later a second text message came in. I pressed and held down #1 key but it once again got delayed for another 10 minutes. I know it will soon send me another text message to remind me. Did I do anything wrong? Is there an easier way to activate voicemail?

3) Once I activated voicemail, how to do I change the passcode?

Thanks in advance!

[Tender]

Okay, I activated the phone and it's working, so far so good. I have a few questions maybe some of you can help me.

1) When playing radio the volume is very loud. Is there a way to turn it down? I see a button on the bottom left with a "*" and a "+" signs also an icon I can't quite make out what it is. Thought it was the volume control, pressed it but nothing happened.

2) I have received the voicemail activate code in a text message. It told me to press and hold down #1 key and follow prompts. My problem is, I pressed and held down #1 key but didn't see any further instructions. It basically delayed the activating process for 10 minutes. I knew it was not being activated because 10 minutes later a second text message came in. I pressed and held down #1 key but it once again got delayed for another 10 minutes. I know it will soon send me another text message to remind me. Did I do anything wrong? Is there an easier way to activate voicemail?

3) Once I activated voicemail, how to do I change the passcode?

Thanks in advance!

1) Not sure as I don't use it. Maybe check the phone manual?
2) After you press and hold the #1 key, there should be something prompting you to listen to your phone for the instructions.
3) The passcode is one of the first things you'll be asked to set up during the voice mail activation.

Good luck.

[althetrainer]

1) Not sure as I don't use it. Maybe check the phone manual?
2) After you press and hold the #1 key, there should be something prompting you to listen to your phone for the instructions.
3) The passcode is one of the first things you'll be asked to set up during the voice mail activation.

Good luck.

Thanks again. I called customer service last night and she told me how to adjust the radio volume. It worked. Asked her about the voicemail activation and she said I was supposed to wait for 24 hours before doing that but for some reasons they kept sending me that text message asking me to press and hold #1 key. She asked me to add a phone number on my phone list which I did. Adding that particular phone number supposed to allow me to activate my voicemail immediately but it didn't work. So I will have to wait for 24 hours to see if it will go. Yes, she told me about the passcode as well. But until I can activate my voicemail there's nothing I can do about it.

After talking to customer service last night, I noticed two other things and now I have more questions:

Why can't I play the radio with just the speaker? When I go to menu then click on "radio", it says "connect enhance. e.g. headset" then of course I have to use the earphones to listen to it. The only way I can make the speaker to work is to plug in the provided earphones then change the setting to "loudspeaker". But I have to keep the earphones plugged in for the speaker to work. If I unplug it, the phone will turn off the speaker and go back to headset setting. No matter how many times and different orders I tried it wouldn't let me play radio without that stupid earphones plugged into the phone. What's the point of having a speaker when you have to plug in the earphones for function?

Is there a way to increase volume for phone calls? The preset volume for this is pretty low. I can hear the other end without problems when I am in a quiet room. But once I am outside it's very difficult to hear. I've played around and managed to change and increase ring tones, volume for other settings but not for phone calls. I did ask the customer service lady but she said it was one of the radio settings. I just couldn't find it. Any ideas? Anyone?

[markj]

Thanks again. I called customer service last night and she told me how to adjust the radio volume. It worked. Asked her about the voicemail activation and she said I was supposed to wait for 24 hours before doing that but for some reasons they kept sending me that text message asking me to press and hold #1 key. She asked me to add a phone number on my phone list which I did. Adding that particular phone number supposed to allow me to activate my voicemail immediately but it didn't work. So I will have to wait for 24 hours to see if it will go. Yes, she told me about the passcode as well. But until I can activate my voicemail there's nothing I can do about it.

After talking to customer service last night, I noticed two other things and now I have more questions:

Why can't I play the radio with just the speaker? When I go to menu then click on "radio", it says "connect enhance. e.g. headset" then of course I have to use the earphones to listen to it. The only way I can make the speaker to work is to plug in the provided earphones then change the setting to "loudspeaker". But I have to keep the earphones plugged in for the speaker to work. If I unplug it, the phone will turn off the speaker and go back to headset setting. No matter how many times and different orders I tried it wouldn't let me play radio without that stupid earphones plugged into the phone. What's the point of having a speaker when you have to plug in the earphones for function?

Is there a way to increase volume for phone calls? The preset volume for this is pretty low. I can hear the other end without problems when I am in a quiet room. But once I am outside it's very difficult to hear. I've played around and managed to change and increase ring tones, volume for other settings but not for phone calls. I did ask the customer service lady but she said it was one of the radio settings. I just couldn't find it. Any ideas? Anyone?

the radio uses the headset wire as an antenna so thats why you need it connected...as for volume every phone i have ever owned has had volume buttons on the side of the phone...

[Tender]

...Is there a way to increase volume for phone calls? The preset volume for this is pretty low. I can hear the other end without problems when I am in a quiet room. But once I am outside it's very difficult to hear. I've played around and managed to change and increase ring tones, volume for other settings but not for phone calls. I did ask the customer service lady but she said it was one of the radio settings. I just couldn't find it. Any ideas? Anyone?

You can only adjust the volume during a phone call. Make a call to your home but don't pick it up. Then adjust the volume just like you did for the radio.

[althetrainer]

the radio uses the headset wire as an antenna so thats why you need it connected...as for volume every phone i have ever owned has had volume buttons on the side of the phone...

So I have to carry the headset with me even if I want to listen to the radio using the speaker? That's very strange indeed.


You can only adjust the volume during a phone call. Make a call to your home but don't pick it up. Then adjust the volume just like you did for the radio.

I called customer service again and was told the same thing - to use the main button. I had my husband call me from our land line phone. I kept pressing the button while he talked but the volume didn't change at all. I guess you get what you pay for... still a pretty good deal! :)

[Tender]

So I have to carry the headset with me even if I want to listen to the radio using the speaker? That's very strange indeed.

I called customer service again and was told the same thing - to use the main button. I had my husband call me from our land line phone. I kept pressing the button while he talked but the volume didn't change at all. I guess you get what you pay for... still a pretty good deal! :)

The wires from the headset act as atenna, so yes you have to carry it i you need to listen to radio. Just like the atennas on the cars.

As for the call volume, you can simply use your cell phone to call the local line. The other pary doesn't have to pick it up. Justb let it ring (you save your minutes this way). And scroll left to reduce, scroll right to increase the volume. I tried it myself and it worked.

If that still doesn't work, you can take the phone ba k and ge a replacement.

[althetrainer]

The wires from the headset act as atenna, so yes you have to carry it i you need to listen to radio. Just like the atennas on the cars.

As for the call volume, you can simply use your cell phone to call the local line. The other pary doesn't have to pick it up. Justb let it ring (you save your minutes this way). And scroll left to reduce, scroll right to increase the volume. I tried it myself and it worked.

If that still doesn't work, you can take the phone ba k and ge a replacement.

Bummer! I was hoping the speaker could be used without the headset. Having a 9-year-old boy drag the earphones and cable around can be messy. I have already sent an email message to Nokia about the volume issue but probably won't hear back from them until next Tuesday or Wednesday. I will wait until then to take it back for a replacement. Thanks again.

[Jet2643]

I bought the $100 voucher and the c3 phone (50% off when buying the $100 airtime) this weekend at a store. No problems at all with the store - they had signage and everything.

The phone came with the sim card already installed, and $5 airtime, as per what had been indicated previously in this thread. I have not yet moved the sim to my samsung, as I want to explore the C3 and get a feel for it as it will be my backup in the long run, and also my phone for rougher use settings.

I agree with the 3rd party review sites which generally indicate that the C3 is the best of the budget "smartphones" on the market. It seems to have most of the bases covered - email, voicemail, web, radio, mp3, texting, speakerphone, camera, bluetooth, etc. Its good to have the smartcard and mini usb slots available on such an inexpensive phone.

First thing I did when i got the phone was config my wifi so could use it free. Phone immediately did a software update to V 08.63 dd 25-03-11 RM-614.

Here are some links for C3 applications I quickly found on the web:

http://www.techespot.com/2010/12/top-10-nokia-c3-applications.html
http://www.mobileheart.com/cell-phone-softwares/2220-Nokia-C3-Software.aspx
http://www.mobilerated.com/nokia-c3-00-applications.html

and here is the C3 Nokia support forum:

http://discussions.europe.nokia.com/t5/forums/searchpage/tab/message?filter=location&location=Board%3ACseries&q=C3

The camera is not so hot given it has no autofocus or flash. I was hoping that I would find an app, or there be a firmware update that would help the camera but have not found one yet in my brief trolling.

Should I wait for speakeasy to get their unlock service going or bring it to someone to unlock?

I am still learning my way around the phone, but for $60 it seems to me to be a good second phone and an excellent 1st choice for the budget conscious.

It is odd that no where in the menu is there a volume option. I did notice I can adjust while in a call, and trigger the speakerphone as well. But usually it is easier to adjust these two functions.

[fogo]

I was wondering if someone could give me some info. about SpeakOut.

I bought a 50 voucher and their low end phone.

My question is as follows:

How long do I have to register the phone and the voucher?

Cheers
fogo

[aasoror]

I agree with the 3rd party review sites which generally indicate that the C3 is the best of the budget "smartphones" on the market.
I think these reviews might be a little bit dated, perhaps before android based smart phones with market access to 250k apps, touch screens, built in GPS were available for about $150 retail and $50~$75 on promos ;)

[althetrainer]

I was wondering if someone could give me some info. about SpeakOut.

I bought a 50 voucher and their low end phone.

My question is as follows:

How long do I have to register the phone and the voucher?

Cheers
fogo

For your phone:

“How long do I have to activate my handset?”

“You can activate your phone at any time. Even now. Go on, activate it. Have you activated your new handset yet? Seriously? What are you waiting for? Lucky for you, the activation code does not expire.”

For the voucher:

“How long do I have to add my airtime voucher?"
“You have 365 days to activate your airtime voucher from the time of purchase. During leap years, you have an extra day on top of the 365 days. Once activated, your airtime is good for a year. You should keep your voucher in a safe place because it cannot be replaced. Also, you may want to write down your voucher PIN number somewhere in ink, as the number on your voucher may fade over time. Better safe than sorry, that’s how we roll.”


In case you need more info:

http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/support/faq/

[fogo]

For your phone:

“How long do I have to activate my handset?”

“You can activate your phone at any time. Even now. Go on, activate it. Have you activated your new handset yet? Seriously? What are you waiting for? Lucky for you, the activation code does not expire.”

For the voucher:

“How long do I have to add my airtime voucher?"
“You have 365 days to activate your airtime voucher from the time of purchase. During leap years, you have an extra day on top of the 365 days. Once activated, your airtime is good for a year. You should keep your voucher in a safe place because it cannot be replaced. Also, you may want to write down your voucher PIN number somewhere in ink, as the number on your voucher may fade over time. Better safe than sorry, that’s how we roll.”


In case you need more info:

http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/support/faq/

Thank you

[immortal_kssss]

I need some help plz,I bought the nokia 1661 for $20 and I moved the sim card from this phone to my iphone(rogers and unlocked), ,the voice is working but the data is not working and I don't know why,even I called the customer service and they couldn't recognize the issue,then I tried it with my nokia e63 and the data still not working.
So any idea?

[Tender]

I need some help plz,I bought the nokia 1661 for $20 and I moved the sim card from this phone to my iphone(rogers and unlocked), ,the voice is working but the data is not working and I don't know why,even I called the customer service and they couldn't recognize the issue,then I tried it with my nokia e63 and the data still not working.
So any idea?

Same thing happened to me last time. I signed up for the data on-line, and it didn't work. I called customer service and they did a reset. Then it worked.

Do you see the "3G" showing on your phone (usually besides the carrier, i.e., "SpeakOut")? If not, give SO a call to reset the data.

If you do see "3G", then it's your iPhone. You need to set up the APN for iPhone in order to use it on SO. Check out this thread on how to do it:

http://www.speakoutwireless.ca/speak/phone-features/iphone-3gs-with-new-unlimited-data-plan/

[parry]

So Speakout Data works with iPhone?

[althetrainer]

I don't use my cell phone too often so I don't understand why data is so important to some people. Just curious.

[Andro]

I think these reviews might be a little bit dated, perhaps before android based smart phones with market access to 250k apps, touch screens, built in GPS were available for about $150 retail and $50~$75 on promos ;)

which phones are these? no contract?

[ahoroba]

you have 4000+ posts and 5years on RFD and you did not notice the recent threads in Hot Deals pertaining to:

Samsung Gio ($67-$79) - more than 20K cumulative views;
LG Optimus One ($50-$75) - more than 100K cumulative views.

Either of these blow Nokia C3 out of the water...


which phones are these? no contract?

[Andro]

you have 4000+ posts and 5years on RFD and you did not notice the recent threads in Hot Deals pertaining to:

Samsung Gio ($67-$79) - more than 20K cumulative views;
LG Optimus One ($50-$75) - more than 100K cumulative views.

Either of these blow Nokia C3 out of the water...

Samsung Gio looks like it is locked to bell, no? can it be used with 7-eleven SIM? Can any of these phones be used with 7-eleven? unlocking required?

[rsiddi01]

funny but serious question can I use this service with my iphone? cheaper than paying bell $70 for service I dont use.

[rsiddi01]

funny but serious question can I use this service with my iphone? cheaper than paying bell $70 for service I dont use.

[Tender]

So Speakout Data works with iPhone?


funny but serious question can I use this service with my iphone? cheaper than paying bell $70 for service I dont use.

Yes and yes. I got my wife's iPhone 3GS working no problem.

But it's just for "unlimited browsing" as Rogers restricted SO's data access to port 80 or something so you have to set up proxy to use it.

Apparently not all the apps work though due to the proxy. My wife only use the phone for news, weather, web browsing, etc. and had no problem with it. The mail app didn't work (for Yahoo) but there is a way to get it work for Gmail. This site has most of the answers:

http://www.speakoutwireless.ca/

[Messerschmitt]

Just so you know guys, while I was trying to help a few other people to buy them a SIM, it looks like 7-11/SO are forcing you to buy airtime too, otherwise they won't sell you the SIM. I mean, you will need airtime anyway, so it shouldn't be a big deal, but the initial investment is going to be 28$ more.

[aasoror]

Samsung Gio looks like it is locked to bell, no? can it be used with 7-eleven SIM? Can any of these phones be used with 7-eleven? unlocking required?

The LG O1 unlock code is available for less than $3 on ebay.
The phone is currently $50 after GC from BB/LD or $75 after GC from WM/Koodo.
No contract is required and you can cancel as soon as you get the phone and many have been taking advantage of this deal then use the phone with 7/11

more info here (http://forums.redflagdeals.com/koodo-lg-optimus-one-150-100-gc-bb-ld-new-activations-no-contract-1055493/).

[armaan]

Sorry to disturbm but i am in urgent need of sim card, does it available on all 7/11 stores?


Thank You!!

[althetrainer]

Sorry to disturbm but i am in urgent need of sim card, does it available on all 7/11 stores?


Thank You!!

I am not sure but you can always call them, it takes just a minute. Use this store locator to find one that's near you then give them a call:

http://storelocator.7-eleven.com/StoreLocator/StoreLocator.aspx

[Kurtz7834]

you have 4000+ posts and 5years on RFD and you did not notice the recent threads in Hot Deals pertaining to:

Samsung Gio ($67-$79) - more than 20K cumulative views;
LG Optimus One ($50-$75) - more than 100K cumulative views.

Either of these blow Nokia C3 out of the water...

I own the Gio and the C3 and your are comparing Apples vs. Oranges.

The C3 has an awesome keyboard and the battery life is like 5X longer than the Gio.

For just talk / text the C3 is a much better phone. For Internet, Games, screwing around etc the Gio is much better.

[aasoror]

For just talk / text the C3 is a much better phone.
Well where does this fit then for a phone that can't do much better than talking texting ?

"C3 is the best of the budget "smartphones" on the market"
;)

[jgmaull]

Just wondering, I know there have been people say that the speakout phones are unlocked and some not, is there anyone that can confirm if they are or not unlocked and if only some are does anyone know which ones are locked and which are not. I want to buy one if it is unlocked that I can use now with FIDO and then switch back to the 7-11 sim when I use up the MASSIVE prepaid fido balance on my brothers card.

[aasoror]

Just wondering, I know there have been people say that the speakout phones are unlocked and some not, is there anyone that can confirm if they are or not unlocked and if only some are does anyone know which ones are locked and which are not. I want to buy one if it is unlocked that I can use now with FIDO and then switch back to the 7-11 sim when I use up the MASSIVE prepaid fido balance on my brothers card.

all recent reports on their forums says all the sets are now locked.

[Kurtz7834]

Well where does this fit then for a phone that can't do much better than talking texting ?

;)

Who said the C3 can only be used for talking and texting? It has a very full featured email app built in and runs Youtube too.

Owning both the Gio and C3, if I were forced to pick one and use it all the time, I'd pick the C3 in a shot. Hugely better battery life, qwerty keyboard, more durable. I use my Gio solely for games and apps, like an Ipod Touch and I've been happy for it for that purpose.

I use a BB Bold all the time mainly because I need the security features and both the Gio and C3 suck for that.

[Kurtz7834]

Just so you know guys, while I was trying to help a few other people to buy them a SIM, it looks like 7-11/SO are forcing you to buy airtime too, otherwise they won't sell you the SIM. I mean, you will need airtime anyway, so it shouldn't be a big deal, but the initial investment is going to be 28$ more.

On the SIM card packaging, it says that's not to be sold without airtime. But many 7-11 stores just ignore this and sell the SIM alone. It's YMMV. Most stores would probably rather just sell you the SIM alone if you refuse to buy airtime rather than sell you nothing, I'd imagine.

[emjhay]

it might have been said on the previous post but i have a question. If sign for 10$ unlimited internet can i tether and use my netbook?
please let me know im very interested on this.
ty

[michelkenny]

On the SIM card packaging, it says that's not to be sold without airtime. But many 7-11 stores just ignore this and sell the SIM alone. It's YMMV. Most stores would probably rather just sell you the SIM alone if you refuse to buy airtime rather than sell you nothing, I'd imagine.

Not sure what the point of a Speakout Sim card with no airtime. You are going to need some to use it!

[Kurtz7834]

it might have been said on the previous post but i have a question. If sign for 10$ unlimited internet can i tether and use my netbook?
please let me know im very interested on this.
ty

NO. If you could do this everyone and his dog would be doing it.

The $10 is for unlimited WAP browsing (limited ports) and hardly gives you unlimited Internet even on the cell phone.

[emjhay]

NO. If you could do this everyone and his dog would be doing it.

The $10 is for unlimited WAP browsing (limited ports) and hardly gives you unlimited Internet even on the cell phone.

thanks for clearing it up.

[fisher]

[QUOTE=Tender;13463387]Yes and yes. I got my wife's iPhone 3GS working no problem.

Wonder if someone can confirm if a Rogers locked Iphone 4 works with Speakout?
I am currently testing SO with my Iphone 3GS with the UL browsing meeting my needs (Gmail, Office Mail, Youtube, Newsfeeds, Safari, etc.)
May be inheriting an Iphone 4 (Rogers locked) when the Iphone 5 is released and available.
If someone can confirm it would be great. I don't want to waste a SO sim by cutting it and inserting it in the phone.

[boblepp]

[QUOTE=Tender;13463387]Yes and yes. I got my wife's iPhone 3GS working no problem.

Wonder if someone can confirm if a Rogers locked Iphone 4 works with Speakout?
I am currently testing SO with my Iphone 3GS with the UL browsing meeting my needs (Gmail, Office Mail, Youtube, Newsfeeds, Safari, etc.)
May be inheriting an Iphone 4 (Rogers locked) when the Iphone 5 is released and available.
If someone can confirm it would be great. I don't want to waste a SO sim by cutting it and inserting it in the phone.

Both Speakout and Petro Canada sit on the Rogers network so any phone locked to Rogers works.

[DavidM82]

I apologize for not reading thru the entire thread, but just got a couple of quick question:

1. Do we need to have any airtime on the SIM card to surf the internet? (data)
2. If so, does it automatically deduct $10 off my prepaid airtime?
3. Does it work ANYWHERE in Canada or just specific zone/regions?

Please advise. Thank you very much.
Sorry for the questions again.

[bridonca]

1. Do we need to have any airtime on the SIM card to surf the internet? (data)
You need at least $11.25 of credit to cover the data plan and the 911 fee for the month.


2. If so, does it automatically deduct $10 off my prepaid airtime?
As said, $11.25 would get deducted from your credit for the month. More if you use the phone for calls.


3. Does it work ANYWHERE in Canada or just specific zone/regions?
It will work anywhere in Canada where there is a Rogers tower near by.

[DavidM82]

You need at least $11.25 of credit to cover the data plan and the 911 fee for the month.


As said, $11.25 would get deducted from your credit for the month. More if you use the phone for calls.


It will work anywhere in Canada where there is a Rogers tower near by.


Thanks bridonca!
I assume they still arent offering microsim? so we will have to cut them out ourselves?
or can I use rogers microSIM in this case?

[michelkenny]

Thanks bridonca!
I assume they still arent offering microsim? so we will have to cut them out ourselves?
or can I use rogers microSIM in this case?

need to cut it

[shopper_holic]

If locked Rogers phones can be used with SO's SIMs, what about locked Fido phones, since Rogers and Fido are the same company? I have an iphone 3g locked to Fido and am considering using the SO SIM when my contract expires. And how would you cut this? I've never done this before.

[PitchyDawg]

I don't know the answer to the Rogers/Fido question, but even still there's a good chance you can unlock the Fido iPhone. You said it's a 3G, right? I've never had service with Fido, but doesn't the 3G support a normal sized SIM card? My Rogers iPhone 3G did. If that's the case, you wouldn't have to do any cutting at all... just straight up swap SIMs.

[manmanny]

You need at least $11.25 of credit to cover the data plan and the 911 fee for the month.


As said, $11.25 would get deducted from your credit for the month. More if you use the phone for calls.


It will work anywhere in Canada where there is a Rogers tower near by.

Almost same.
If your airtime balance is below $12.00 at the time of renewal, the Unlimited Browsing feature will be removed from your account. (https://www.speakout7eleven.ca/rates-add-ons#browsing)

[bridonca]

If locked Rogers phones can be used with SO's SIMs, what about locked Fido phones, since Rogers and Fido are the same company? I have an iphone 3g locked to Fido and am considering using the SO SIM when my contract expires. And how would you cut this? I've never done this before.

Some of the the newer FIDO phones can work with Speakout. However, a lot of FIDO phones still need to be unlocked to work with Speakout. YMMV.

[Inno]

My 1 year voucher expires Nov. 4. I don't want to lose my balance. How long do I have after Nov. 4 to buy more credit?

Thanks!

[dns1]

Nov 3rd or you'll lose your balance .....

http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/support/faq

[bylo]

My 1 year voucher expires Nov. 4. I don't want to lose my balance. How long do I have after Nov. 4 to buy more credit?
Nov 3rd or you'll lose your balance.
My airtime expired on 31Aug11. I renewed (online, from Europe) on that day, not a day earlier, and didn't lose any existing airtime.

My new expiry date is 30Aug12, presumably because 2012 is a leap year and when they say 365 days they don't mean 1 year ;)

[althetrainer]

I am leaving Rogers in a few days but I would like to keep my phone number. How much will SO charge to port an existing phone number?

[pinkpt]

I am leaving Rogers in a few days but I would like to keep my phone number. How much will SO charge to port an existing phone number?

its free to port over

[althetrainer]

its free to port over

Free?! Good surprise! Think I am going to get a sim card right now. Thank-you!

[RoughriderFan]

I am leaving Rogers in a few days but I would like to keep my phone number. How much will SO charge to port an existing phone number?

I am going to be switching from Rogers Pay-as-you-go. $0.40 calling, $0.20 incoming and $0.20 outgoing texts is a ripoff. I called about the porting and was told it would take 1-3 business days, but rarely takes the full 3 days. Just make sure both accounts exist before calling them to set it up.


Just got through all 27 pages of this thread btw.

[jamdat]

Free?! Good surprise! Think I am going to get a sim card right now. Thank-you!But don't cancel your Rogers service before you port! All you have to do is get a sim card, activate it, talk to speakout, tell them you want to port, give them the required info, and they take care of it. Your rogers account will be cancelled automatically. If you cancel before you port, you might run into problems with rogers not releasing your number.

[althetrainer]

I am going to be switching from Rogers Pay-as-you-go. $0.40 calling, $0.20 incoming and $0.20 outgoing texts is a ripoff. I called about the porting and was told it would take 1-3 business days, but rarely takes the full 3 days. Just make sure both accounts exist before calling them to set it up.


Just got through all 27 pages of this thread btw.

It's done, from my end anyways.

I didn't have a SO SIM card so had to run to three different 7-Eleven stores to find one. The first location got only two cards that had been opened; second store was completely OOS; finally got it from the third location. Came home, activated the card, added airtime, then called customer service immediately. I did ask about the 3 business days and she said that's unusual only those numbers with "problems" but in most cases they would go through without a hitch. She told me to check tomorrow night and it should be good to go. Keeping my fingers crossed! :)

[chimp]

check SMS after the port is done. Sometimes, that can be troublesome, usually ok.

[RoughriderFan]

All done here as well. Will just be waiting to find out how long port will take. I inquired about the 3 days again and was told they say 1 to 3 business days because if they have a bunch of numbers to do it all depends on when they get to yours in the que.

[althetrainer]

But don't cancel your Rogers service before you port! All you have to do is get a sim card, activate it, talk to speakout, tell them you want to port, give them the required info, and they take care of it. Your rogers account will be cancelled automatically. If you cancel before you port, you might run into problems with rogers not releasing your number.

It's a bit late for me since the cancellation was done over a month ago. :lol: On what ground can they withhold the number? Just curious. If worse comes to worst, no big deal, I will use the new number. It's not as good as the old one but I am sure I will get used to it soon enough.

[chimp]

It's a bit late for me since the cancellation was done over a month ago. :lol: On what ground can they withhold the number? Just curious. If worse comes to worst, no big deal, I will use the new number. It's not as good as the old one but I am sure I will get used to it soon enough.

It is not that the without the number but that technically the number is no longer yours. The process is like this:

SO would pass the phone number AND account info(say ac# at rogers) to rogers to request the transfer. But if your ac# is no longer active, rogers would not allow the transfer because they can say this number is no longer in use.

[boblepp]

But don't cancel your Rogers service before you port! All you have to do is get a sim card, activate it, talk to speakout, tell them you want to port, give them the required info, and they take care of it. Your rogers account will be cancelled automatically. If you cancel before you port, you might run into problems with rogers not releasing your number.

THIS IS BLATANTLY WRONG AND WILL COST YOU MONEY.

DO NOT LET SO PORT, first you MUST give 30 days notice of your intention to port to Rogers unless you want to pay for 30 days usage with no phone. Tell Rogers what date 30 days out you will port out. Give SO the go ahead ON that date. Keep the temporary number until then. If Roger threatens to lock up your number ask for a manager and persist.

Calling SO and letting them handle it is what Rogers WANTS so they get to bill you an extra 30 days for no usage. They and Bell conspired to use this trick to pay for the porting operations.

[Ottomaddox]

THIS IS BLATANTLY WRONG AND WILL COST YOU MONEY.

DO NOT LET SO PORT, first you MUST give 30 days notice of your intention to port to Rogers unless you want to pay for 30 days usage with no phone. Tell Rogers what date 30 days out you will port out. Give SO the go ahead ON that date. Keep the temporary number until then. If Roger threatens to lock up your number ask for a manager and persist.

Calling SO and letting them handle it is what Rogers WANTS so they get to bill you an extra 30 days for no usage. They and Bell conspired to use this trick to pay for the porting operations.

It was Rogers Pay-as-you-go, not a contract...

[Inno]

Nov 3rd or you'll lose your balance .....

http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/support/faq

One of the SO FAQs mentions 45 days. I.e. "If your airtime has expired, your account will remain available for 45 days - so simply add another voucher ". By expired do they mean minutes used up or 365 days used up?

I'm confused because in my case I have not used all my $100 airtime, just come to the end of the 365 days of validity for that airtime.

Does the 45 days apply to me as far as buying more credit to top up my remaining balance? Since the phone is only used for emergencies I'd rather delay topping up the airtime until actually needed (up to 45 days) so that the phone stays alive longer.

[whatsinaname]

THIS IS BLATANTLY WRONG AND WILL COST YOU MONEY.

DO NOT LET SO PORT, first you MUST give 30 days notice of your intention to port to Rogers unless you want to pay for 30 days usage with no phone. Tell Rogers what date 30 days out you will port out. Give SO the go ahead ON that date. Keep the temporary number until then. If Roger threatens to lock up your number ask for a manager and persist.

Calling SO and letting them handle it is what Rogers WANTS so they get to bill you an extra 30 days for no usage. They and Bell conspired to use this trick to pay for the porting operations.

That makes sense. I was speaking to a Rogers rep saying I want to cancel, and she kept telling me not to cancel, but rather to port instead. I repeatedly asked her if it was free, she said yes. She specifically told me to just go to my new service provider and it'll be canceled automatically. Evil lady.

[boblepp]

It was Rogers Pay-as-you-go, not a contract...

Thanks, I was replying to jamdat's post. Yes, you can port out a pay as you go anytime. But even a month-to-month "no contract" deal requires 30 days notice. Read the full terms and conditions and you will find that.

Do not let them trick you out of giving required notice periods. Bell is awful at this, they outright lie to you.

[l69norm]

One of the SO FAQs mentions 45 days. I.e. "If your airtime has expired, your account will remain available for 45 days - so simply add another voucher ". By expired do they mean minutes used up or 365 days used up?

I'm confused because in my case I have not used all my $100 airtime, just come to the end of the 365 days of validity for that airtime.

Does the 45 days apply to me as far as buying more credit to top up my remaining balance? Since the phone is only used for emergencies I'd rather delay topping up the airtime until actually needed (up to 45 days) so that the phone stays alive longer.

After 365 days, you lose the balance left on the SIM but retain the phone number. Phone is no longer active, buy a new voucher to keep going
After 365 + 45, you lose the phone number and the sim goes dead. Need to buy another SIM plus voucher. You get a new phone number

[Inno]

After 365 days, you lose the balance left on the SIM but retain the phone number. Phone is no longer active, buy a new voucher to keep going
After 365 + 45, you lose the phone number and the sim goes dead. Need to buy another SIM plus voucher. You get a new phone number

Thanks for clarifying. I have a big balance, so don't want to lose that.

[Tender]

Thanks for clarifying. I have a big balance, so don't want to lose that.

You can top up with the minimal $25 to extend another 365 days.

[RoughriderFan]

Porting of Rogers pay-as-you-go number to SpeakOut took. Less than a day.

[althetrainer]

Thanks, I was replying to jamdat's post. Yes, you can port out a pay as you go anytime. But even a month-to-month "no contract" deal requires 30 days notice. Read the full terms and conditions and you will find that.

Do not let them trick you out of giving required notice periods. Bell is awful at this, they outright lie to you.

Interesting! My contract with Rogers expired years ago so it was a month-to-month that required 30 days notice. The last of the 30 day is Oct 6 (Thursday) and SpeakOut will try to port the number before tomorrow. I never told Rogers that I wanted that number so will see if SO can get it. One way or the other the phone number will expire on Thursday and Rogers had already sent me a last bill (they always charge in advance). If they dare to charge me further I will be furious and definitely will call to give them hell.

Edit: I have just received a text message from SpeakOut. The phone number had been successfully ported over. Went to check my Rogers card and it's no longer registered. So I am done with Rogers!

[Sepharite]

I'm thinking of getting a new phone with unlimited data plan. I'm looking at the Samsung Gio, which is decently priced. Is there a better phone out that that's compatible with the SO SIM card? Or do you recommend another phone, with another company? I'm just looking for cheap unlimited data plan tbh.

[john widow]

Okay...so I got gio with speakout phone number....I'm cancelling my koodo.....can I port my koodo # over to the new speakout phone? I already have a speakout phone # though...

[manmanny]

Okay...so I got gio with speakout phone number....I'm cancelling my koodo.....can I port my koodo # over to the new speakout phone? I already have a speakout phone # though...

Don't cancel first. When you port the Koodo will be cancelled automatically. You lose the SP number.

[Sepharite]

Can you tether unlimited data from Gio to a HP touchpad (once Android is ported) or any other WIFI device?

[Redscott]

Can you tether unlimited data from Gio to a HP touchpad (once Android is ported) or any other WIFI device?

Great questions as I currently pay $40 a month for my Rogers Ipad 5gb Dataplan. I'd also like to get a Gio and wifi hotspot it for my Ipad for the cost of the phone then $10 there after?

[Kurtz7834]

THIS IS BLATANTLY WRONG AND WILL COST YOU MONEY.
Calling SO and letting them handle it is what Rogers WANTS so they get to bill you an extra 30 days for no usage. They and Bell conspired to use this trick to pay for the porting operations.

Nope, quite the opposite. They want you to phone in and 'prepare' for the port so they can stall and try to hit you with retentions bids. They don't want to lose customers, even if they can bill for another 30 days.

From my experience it is easier to just let SO deal with it and not deal with Bell / Rogers stalling, deliberately getting 'confused' and retentions BS. The last thing you need is a CSR getting confused and putting a 'cancellation' flag on your account so Speakout cannot port the number. Bell is infamous for being passive aggressive when dealing with other providers. And plus you may not get billed for an extra 30 days.

[slowtyper]

Wow that dude who typed in all CAPS is wrong...when you call your current provider and tell them you are porting and giving notice, with Fido, they lock your account so you can't port out at all. Let the new provider do the port and if you get charged the 30 day cancellation fee, then you can fight them and get it back (it's against some rule somewhere).


I just picked up a SO sim card in Toronto. Planning on using this in another province. Does anyone know if data works nationwide with no additional cost?

[M-e-X-x]

I just picked up a SO sim card in Toronto. Planning on using this in another province. Does anyone know if data works nationwide with no additional cost?

Yup, no additional cost or zones. Used it on a trip between Montreal/Toronto corridor.

[frankw]

If I get my brother in BC to pickup a SIM plus time and mail it to me in Nova Scotia, can I register it and top up online or does he have to keep buying time and emailing me the details?

[bridonca]

If I get my brother in BC to pickup a SIM plus time and mail it to me in Nova Scotia, can I register it and top up online or does he have to keep buying time and emailing me the details?

As a Speakout customer in Nova Scotia, I can say, that once you get your SIM, you do not have to bug your brother again! You can purchase air time online by credit card. I still bother my sister in Calgary to get me airtime though, because I can get airtime cheaper because of the much lower sales tax in Alberta.

[frankw]

As a Speakout customer in Nova Scotia, I can say, that once you get your SIM, you do not have to bug your brother again! You can purchase air time online by credit card. I still bother my sister in Calgary to get me airtime though, because I can get airtime cheaper because of the much lower sales tax in Alberta.

Thanks. Email to brother on its way.

[Ghetto_Child]

wasted my time with ontario only thread. OP should have put Ontario only in title.

[Tender]

:arrowu:Who says this is Ontario only?

[althetrainer]

wasted my time with ontario only thread. OP should have put Ontario only in title.

Eh?

[shaolinmonk]

i've been on contract with the large carriers for as long as i can remember if i can truly get decent data speeds and manage my minutes this would save me hundreds a year..

[boblepp]

Wow that dude who typed in all CAPS is wrong...when you call your current provider and tell them you are porting and giving notice, with Fido, they lock your account so you can't port out at all. Let the new provider do the port and if you get charged the 30 day cancellation fee, then you can fight them and get it back (it's against some rule somewhere).


I just picked up a SO sim card in Toronto. Planning on using this in another province. Does anyone know if data works nationwide with no additional cost?

I'm the dude..... just because Fido played hardball and messed you up does not mean you should not give notice as required by your current plan.

Understand, it is a game they play, and they lie and cheat. They should take your notice and flag your account, they should not lock it up. They do that to hassle you, plain and simple. Fight back. Get your telephone recorder ready. Call them back and ask for a manager and tell him the CRTC forbids them from locking your phone number. If he does not reverse the lock you will have to make a claim to the CCTS but you will get a resolution.

Please understand the difference between what they *should* do and what they actually do. Any one of these companies can break any laws or rules at any time, then later they claim "it is a training issue with our staff", they send you a generic apology letter with no specifics of where they broke the rules and life goes on (in my letter returning my money they cited "for your frustration we are sending you a cheque", and they never put down on paper that they did anything wrong. The majors conspire to hassle you in this way to try to stop you from jumping from carrier to carrier. They want the free revenue from locking your account to offset the costs of running the porting facilities.

If you still do not believe me, read the CCTS annual report wherein they cite the carriers are increasingly abusing customers by their porting practices. It is the biggest cause for complaints now.

Pay by Visa, dispute the charges. Claim to the CCTS. They have to pay the processing costs for each CCTS claim made against them. You may get paid back twice, I did.

Or roll over, be a patsy and pay them whenever they ask for more money. Your choice.

I don't really care you tell me I am wrong. I have been through personally it and come out ahead. If you would rather believe Fido when they tell you "We have to lock up your phone number when you give 30 days notice of port out", instead of believing me, then go ahead. Call them back and re-open your account, port it out and pay 30 days of no service to Fido and claim that to the CCTS. You can win that way too.

We Canadians are such wimps when major companies abuse us, we don't want to make waves so we pay up. They know that about us.

[boblepp]

:arrowu:Who says this is Ontario only?

It was Ghetto Child in Quebec. But he is mistaken. Once activated the phone works wherever Rogers works.

So it is a Rogers Only thread..... tee hee

[shaolinmonk]

i'm just looking at their new value plans

$35 for 200 mins, unlimited text and browsing seems pretty good to me..

i guess the mobilicity and wind plans are better because they offer unlimited voice as well but both networks can't support my beloved iphone lol

[Kurtz7834]

I'm the dude..... just because Fido played hardball and messed you up does not mean you should not give notice as required by your current plan.

Understand, it is a game they play, and they lie and cheat. They should take your notice and flag your account, they should not lock it up. They do that to hassle you, plain and simple. Fight back. Get your telephone recorder ready. Call them back and ask for a manager and tell him the CRTC forbids them from locking your phone number. If he does not reverse the lock you will have to make a claim to the CCTS but you will get a resolution.

Please understand the difference between what they *should* do and what they actually do. Any one of these companies can break any laws or rules at any time, then later they claim "it is a training issue with our staff", they send you a generic apology letter with no specifics of where they broke the rules and life goes on (in my letter returning my money they cited "for your frustration we are sending you a cheque", and they never put down on paper that they did anything wrong. The majors conspire to hassle you in this way to try to stop you from jumping from carrier to carrier. They want the free revenue from locking your account to offset the costs of running the porting facilities.

If you still do not believe me, read the CCTS annual report wherein they cite the carriers are increasingly abusing customers by their porting practices. It is the biggest cause for complaints now.

Pay by Visa, dispute the charges. Claim to the CCTS. They have to pay the processing costs for each CCTS claim made against them. You may get paid back twice, I did.

Or roll over, be a patsy and pay them whenever they ask for more money. Your choice.

I don't really care you tell me I am wrong. I have been through personally it and come out ahead. If you would rather believe Fido when they tell you "We have to lock up your phone number when you give 30 days notice of port out", instead of believing me, then go ahead. Call them back and re-open your account, port it out and pay 30 days of no service to Fido and claim that to the CCTS. You can win that way too.

We Canadians are such wimps when major companies abuse us, we don't want to make waves so we pay up. They know that about us.

While I appreciate that you're trying to help and I agree with some of what you're saying, I still don't think it's good advice.

What you're describing is a huge amount of hassle and wasted time. And time = money.

Much easier just to let the company you're transferring to handle the porting. This avoids all the problems you're describing above. I'm not the only one here giving this advice.

Often you will not be charged the one month's service or whatever for not giving 30 days notice anyways. I recently ported from a carrier with the 30 day policy and gave no notice but was not charged.

And if you do get charged the one month's service, the amount of hassle you described is probably not worth the one month's cost savings.

It's not about being a patsy or principle, it's about time / money and choosing your battles.

[boblepp]

While I appreciate that you're trying to help and I agree with some of what you're saying, I still don't think it's good advice.

What you're describing is a huge amount of hassle and wasted time. And time = money.

Much easier just to let the company you're transferring to handle the porting. This avoids all the problems you're describing above. I'm not the only one here giving this advice.

Often you will not be charged the one month's service or whatever for not giving 30 days notice anyways. I recently ported from a carrier with the 30 day policy and gave no notice but was not charged.

And if you do get charged the one month's service, the amount of hassle you described is probably not worth the one month's cost savings.

It's not about being a patsy or principle, it's about time / money and choosing your battles.

Exactly, you're a "roll me over and do me" kind of guy with more money than time. I have more time than money. Go, now, and make them all richer!

[dell11]

I noticed that Petro Canada is $2 cheaper per month for 100 min + text + browsing... I also understand they are both on the rogers network. Which service is "better"???

What are the limitations to the browsing option? I heard some Apps don't work like VoiP. Are there any other mainstream apps that won't work? (talkatone, whatsapp, magic jack, etc)

[icemasta]

i'm just looking at their new value plans

$35 for 200 mins, unlimited text and browsing seems pretty good to me..

i guess the mobilicity and wind plans are better because they offer unlimited voice as well but both networks can't support my beloved iphone lol

Considering you also get CID/VM, and all the calling features included with Canada-wide calling makes it a great deal. I just wish they had some sort of free evenings and weekends in those monthly plans and I may have considered them.

[voodoo401]

Now you can top-up your account online

http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/buy-online

[chimp]

I noticed that Petro Canada is $2 cheaper per month for 100 min + text + browsing... I also understand they are both on the rogers network. Which service is "better"???

What are the limitations to the browsing option? I heard some Apps don't work like VoiP. Are there any other mainstream apps that won't work? (talkatone, whatsapp, magic jack, etc)

They are two brand running by the SAME COMPANY. So service is exactly the same. As for the network, they just 'rent' roger's network and thus coverage is also the same as rogers.

If you are using iPhone, most app works the one you mentioned though are all VOIP type which is known to be not working. I still have talkatone but only use when I am in wifi range. Don't even think about SO if you are after VOIP(unless you know what you are doing).

[dell11]

They are two brand running by the SAME COMPANY. So service is exactly the same. As for the network, they just 'rent' roger's network and thus coverage is also the same as rogers.

If you are using iPhone, most app works the one you mentioned though are all VOIP type which is known to be not working. I still have talkatone but only use when I am in wifi range. Don't even think about SO if you are after VOIP(unless you know what you are doing).

So if everything is the same it makes no sense to use SO if Petro Canada is $2 cheaper I suppose. Does Petro charge the 911 fee like SO does?

[chimp]

So if everything is the same it makes no sense to use SO if Petro Canada is $2 cheaper I suppose. Does Petro charge the 911 fee like SO does?

SO and Petro Canada are designed for very different purpose(before they come out these plans), SO are for very low usage(a fill up can last for a year), PC has changed course to target monthly/unlimited plan.

I think Petro canada charged a little bit less for the 911 but still charge it.

But they are really the same company with two fronts, a frequent tactic used in produts like cigarette or may be other house hold item as well.

Just make your pick based on your need. If you need talk minutes and texting, petro canada is better. If you need low maint fee(for the number, i.e. not much talking/texting like I do), SO is better.

EDIT:
BTW, this is very different from President Choice Mobile which actually is run by Bell. I know that because the support staff sometimes slip tongue and when I called recently asking about my Bell iPad plan, they again slip tongue and telling me that I have a number with my account which I am having with President Choice mobile.

[MikeAK]

Just make your pick based on your need. If you need talk minutes and texting, petro canada is better. If you need low maint fee(for the number, i.e. not much talking/texting like I do), SO is better.

I don't understand why people say this. SO offers the same talk and text plans that Petro does for the same price, and they both run off the same network. How is one better than the other? Now that SO has adjusted their talk & text plans I don't see any advantage going with one over the other.

[chimp]

I don't understand why people say this. SO offers the same talk and text plans that Petro does for the same price, and they both run off the same network. How is one better than the other? Now that SO has adjusted their talk & text plans I don't see any advantage going with one over the other.

I have said that before SO came out this monthly plan(I don't know it until I saw it a few days ago), petro canada was more attractive if constant minutes and text is what one needs.

SO is still better than petro canada in my case as I only need to refill once a year for 25 dollars.

petro canada is still better than speakout as their UMB is 2 bucks cheaper.

And didn't I say one has to gauge the exact usage pattern and the actual dollar spent to choose ? I can only give general comment on general usage pattern.

[dell11]

I don't understand why people say this. SO offers the same talk and text plans that Petro does for the same price, and they both run off the same network. How is one better than the other? Now that SO has adjusted their talk & text plans I don't see any advantage going with one over the other.

Petro is $2 cheaper on monthly plans

[MikeAK]

I have said that before SO came out this monthly plan(I don't know it until I saw it a few days ago), petro canada was more attractive if constant minutes and text is what one needs.

SO is still better than petro canada in my case as I only need to refill once a year for 25 dollars.

petro canada is still better than speakout as their UMB is 2 bucks cheaper.

And didn't I say one has to gauge the exact usage pattern and the actual dollar spent to choose ? I can only give general comment on general usage pattern.

Why so defensive?... and you did say one was better then the other based on talk & text.

[MikeAK]

Petro is $2 cheaper on monthly plans

hmmm... the plans I am looking at are identical in price. Am i missing something?

[bylo]

Now you can top-up your account online
Old news. That's been available for about 3 months ;)

[icemasta]

hmmm... the plans I am looking at are identical in price. Am i missing something?

What dell11 forgot to say is that Petro is $2 cheaper if you add their voice(/text) + browsing since Petro charges $8 for UMB if its added-on to a voice/text plan.

MikeAK is right in that they are both operated under the same company, Ztar, so you will have the same service from both MVMO's. Why it's cheaper is a good question, but considering they are the same service, pick whichever you prefer.
SO's voucher do last longer though but Petro has unlimited voice options.

[chimp]

Why so defensive?... and you did say one was better then the other based on talk & text.

why so offensive ? are you here just to prove that I was wrong in the exact wording ? If you failed to read what i want to say(which was just a general guideline rather than a full cost and benefit analysis + 3 years projection presenting to CEO), I don't know what to say.

[rivet]

Got a question about petro canada mobility UMB $10 add on, just wondering if it is just deducted from the existing balance, meaning that if I didn't make call at all, my minimun top ups is just $10*12+$1.25 (911 fee)*12=$133+tax to last a year?

[icemasta]

Got a question about petro canada mobility UMB $10 add on, just wondering if it is just deducted from the existing balance, meaning that if I didn't make call at all, my minimun top ups is just $10*12+$1.25 (911 fee)*12=$133+tax to last a year?

That sounds right to me. ($10 + tax)*12 + ($1.25*12) so roughly $150/year.

[chimp]

Got a question about petro canada mobility UMB $10 add on, just wondering if it is just deducted from the existing balance, meaning that if I didn't make call at all, my minimun top ups is just $10*12+$1.25 (911 fee)*12=$133+tax to last a year?

they would deduct it every month(or 30 days) automatically from your balance until you run out and it would stop. that was how it was done last I read, not sure if they have changed anything recently.

But petro canada top up has its own exipiry. So even if you top up 500 bucks, it would not last for 4 years but more like one year. read their terms on how long each top up last. your balance would be wiped out after the said period.

[Asad_A203]

Just ported from Rogers and didn't inform Rogers of that :facepalm:. I used to work for Shaw Cable and when we ported residential phone numbers, we always informed the customer never to tell the teleco about it and that we would cancel the service from our end. Otherwise, we ran the risk of the phone company rejecting the port. The phone company here (and I guess Telus as well) never charged beyond the day of the port and would credit back the service fee. We did this as well with outgoing ports. The only time we charged the 30 day fee was for television and internet and even a few days notice (i.e. 10-15 days) was sufficient when I was working.

I did not know Rogers/Bell were that greasy to charge you a full 30 day after the port. I will definitely be complaining to the CCTS about it but doubt they will do anything.

In any case, I am happy with SO right now. I think I may have been better served going with Rogers Pay as you go $20/25 dollar plan which includes unlimited text/100MB browsing/all of SO features/and 100 free minutes of calling BUT I hate Rogers with a passion and refuse to pay them a cent after the 4 years I was with them. The only thing that might suck is getting the UMB working for all my stuff on my smartphone.

[slowtyper]

I did not know Rogers/Bell were that greasy to charge you a full 30 day after the port. I will definitely be complaining to the CCTS about it but doubt they will do anything.


You will get it back. Call rogers and tell them you are going to complain to CCTS. They'll probably give it back to you. If they don't, complain to CCTS then they will give it back to you after that.

[slowtyper]

I'm the dude..... just because Fido played hardball and messed you up does not mean you should not give notice as required by your current plan.

Understand, it is a game they play, and they lie and cheat. They should take your notice and flag your account, they should not lock it up. They do that to hassle you, plain and simple. Fight back. Get your telephone recorder ready. Call them back and ask for a manager and tell him the CRTC forbids them from locking your phone number. If he does not reverse the lock you will have to make a claim to the CCTS but you will get a resolution.

Please understand the difference between what they *should* do and what they actually do. Any one of these companies can break any laws or rules at any time, then later they claim "it is a training issue with our staff", they send you a generic apology letter with no specifics of where they broke the rules and life goes on (in my letter returning my money they cited "for your frustration we are sending you a cheque", and they never put down on paper that they did anything wrong. The majors conspire to hassle you in this way to try to stop you from jumping from carrier to carrier. They want the free revenue from locking your account to offset the costs of running the porting facilities.

If you still do not believe me, read the CCTS annual report wherein they cite the carriers are increasingly abusing customers by their porting practices. It is the biggest cause for complaints now.

Pay by Visa, dispute the charges. Claim to the CCTS. They have to pay the processing costs for each CCTS claim made against them. You may get paid back twice, I did.

Or roll over, be a patsy and pay them whenever they ask for more money. Your choice.

I don't really care you tell me I am wrong. I have been through personally it and come out ahead. If you would rather believe Fido when they tell you "We have to lock up your phone number when you give 30 days notice of port out", instead of believing me, then go ahead. Call them back and re-open your account, port it out and pay 30 days of no service to Fido and claim that to the CCTS. You can win that way too.

We Canadians are such wimps when major companies abuse us, we don't want to make waves so we pay up. They know that about us.
Let me clairfy. I said your original post earlier was very wrong, and I stand by that.

If someone followed your advice a lot of people would be screwed by getting locked out. The reason? Your post said to tell them when you are porting out but only mentioned to fight them if they threaten to lock your account. Fido/rogers will NEVER EVER threaten to lock your account from being ported out! They will okay and do their thing but not say anything about being locked, it just happens. This is what can really screw people over. Most people read your post they would just call and make the date and when they doing mention anything about being locked and instead say everything is fine, people just assume that it will be okay.

Now if instead it wrote something like "you must specify when telling them you are cancelling that they cannot lock your account" then yeah, that would be more correct than what you originally posted, but then its still more inconvenient than my suggestion because
a) There is still a chance they will lock your account even though they said they wouldn't, then you have to fight it. I mean how do you really know if there is a lock or not?
b) You still have to think about it and plan it 30+ days in advance.

Instead just port out when you want to, if you get charged, claim it to CCTS. We are both saying the same thing by saying you should fight to not pay the 30 day fee, but I'm just saying its way easier to not tell them in advance. I don't get what you mean by having more money than time...I paid nothing extra at all and saved time and headache. I've ported out a few numbers and only got charged once for the 30 day thing and got it back with one phone call. The other times just ported out and never got charged anything extra.

What I don't understand about your situation is that you said you had to claim to CCTS to get the 30 day fee back, but you also said you had to go to CCTS to get them to remove the lock on your number? Or did you just mean that it is possible, not that you actually had to do it?

[slowtyper]

Considering you also get CID/VM, and all the calling features included with Canada-wide calling makes it a great deal. I just wish they had some sort of free evenings and weekends in those monthly plans and I may have considered them.

Is there a better option than speakout if priority is canada-wide calling + the $10 WAP data? (mobilicity/wind etc not an option). I am looking for what you mentioned, something with more evening/weekend minutes.

[slowtyper]

BTW since petro and SO are pretty much the same company, does anyone know if a speakout SIM that is unactivated will work if you activate it on petro? I bought a SO sim without realizing that petros plan is $2 cheaper/month but haven't activated it yet

[Kurtz7834]

BTW since petro and SO are pretty much the same company, does anyone know if a speakout SIM that is unactivated will work if you activate it on petro? I bought a SO sim without realizing that petros plan is $2 cheaper/month but haven't activated it yet

I haven't tried, but I would highly doubt it. I would imagine the SIM card number is locked to the provider. Although they may be run by the same company, they are different carriers, like Bell / Virgin, etc.

[Kurtz7834]

Let me clairfy. I said your original post earlier was very wrong, and I stand by that.

If someone followed your advice a lot of people would be screwed by getting locked out. The reason? Your post said to tell them when you are porting out but only mentioned to fight them if they threaten to lock your account. Fido/rogers will NEVER EVER threaten to lock your account from being ported out! They will okay and do their thing but not say anything about being locked, it just happens. This is what can really screw people over. Most people read your post they would just call and make the date and when they doing mention anything about being locked and instead say everything is fine, people just assume that it will be okay.

Now if instead it wrote something like "you must specify when telling them you are cancelling that they cannot lock your account" then yeah, that would be more correct than what you originally posted, but then its still more inconvenient than my suggestion because
a) There is still a chance they will lock your account even though they said they wouldn't, then you have to fight it. I mean how do you really know if there is a lock or not?
b) You still have to think about it and plan it 30+ days in advance.

Instead just port out when you want to, if you get charged, claim it to CCTS. We are both saying the same thing by saying you should fight to not pay the 30 day fee, but I'm just saying its way easier to not tell them in advance. I don't get what you mean by having more money than time...I paid nothing extra at all and saved time and headache. I've ported out a few numbers and only got charged once for the 30 day thing and got it back with one phone call. The other times just ported out and never got charged anything extra.

What I don't understand about your situation is that you said you had to claim to CCTS to get the 30 day fee back, but you also said you had to go to CCTS to get them to remove the lock on your number? Or did you just mean that it is possible, not that you actually had to do it?

+1 I agree with you, as do most people here. But boblepp is not listening to anyone else. He is also ignoring that some people use their phones for critical stuff and cannot do anything that would risk the number being locked. Personally I couldn't care less what he thinks but I don't want others to run into trouble following his bad advice.

[bridonca]

Is there a better option than speakout if priority is canada-wide calling + the $10 WAP data? (mobilicity/wind etc not an option). I am looking for what you mentioned, something with more evening/weekend minutes.

Petro Canada is a good contender.
http://mobility.petro-canada.ca/en/features/396.aspx
http://mobility.petro-canada.ca/en/features/531.aspx

Only downsides compared to Speakout is that the SIM cards are more expensive at $15. Though if you buy $50 of air time, you can get a SIM card and phone for $9. You can easily sell that excess phone on kijiji for $20.

The other downside is if you do not use the phone much. With Speakout, you can buy credit for $25, and that will last you a year. With Petro Canada, you need to buy a $100 card to get a year expiry. If you use the phone and data regularly, it is a bit of a moot point though. It is not hard to go through $100 throughout the year.

[Kurtz7834]

Petro Canada is a good contender.
http://mobility.petro-canada.ca/en/features/396.aspx
http://mobility.petro-canada.ca/en/features/531.aspx

Only downsides compared to Speakout is that the SIM cards are more expensive at $15. Though if you buy $50 of air time, you can get a SIM card and phone for $9. You can easily sell that excess phone on kijiji for $20.

The other downside is if you do not use the phone much. With Speakout, you can buy credit for $25, and that will last you a year. With Petro Canada, you need to buy a $100 card to get a year expiry. If you use the phone and data regularly, it is a bit of a moot point though. It is not hard to go through $100 throughout the year.

There has been little attention given to this, but I wanted to let everyone know. Petro Canada has seriously ruined their $40 unlimited plan by removing the Canada Wide Calling and Unlimited Long Distance from it. This plan is no longer worth it, especially when chatr has an unlimited plan for $25. People not in chatr zones are better off with Koodo which still has unlimited LD and Canada Wide Calling, but now for $55.

So for people that use a lot of voice minutes, PetroCan and Speakout are no longer serious contenders. Those people need to look at Chatr and Koodo, or Wind /Mobilicity depending on their budget and patience for reception issues.

for people that don't use a lot of voice minutes, Petrocan and Speakout remain the cheapest cell phone options in Canada.

[bylo]

I hate Rogers with a passion and refuse to pay them a cent after the 4 years I was with them.
Both SO and PCM use the Robbers network so you continue to pay them money, albeit indirectly through a MVNO. Perhaps Robbers gets less of your money under this arrangement but (a) they still get the bulk of it and (b) since they don't need to provide any customer service under this arrangement your business may actually be more profitable to them than when they dealt with you directly.

Just saying...

[tdotojnf]

Hi there, I was wondering how I would get a sim card to fit into an iphone if I go with SO or Petro Mobile since the sims for the iphone is smaller? Thank you.

[bridonca]

There has been little attention given to this, but I wanted to let everyone know. Petro Canada has seriously ruined their $40 unlimited plan by removing the Canada Wide Calling and Unlimited Long Distance from it. This plan is no longer worth it, especially when chatr has an unlimited plan for $25. People not in chatr zones are better off with Koodo which still has unlimited LD and Canada Wide Calling, but now for $55.

So for people that use a lot of voice minutes, PetroCan and Speakout are no longer serious contenders. Those people need to look at Chatr and Koodo, or Wind /Mobilicity depending on their budget and patience for reception issues.

for people that don't use a lot of voice minutes, Petrocan and Speakout remain the cheapest cell phone options in Canada.

Where are you getting your information? I know from personal experience with Speakout, I can call most places in Canada without incurring long distance charges. Petro Canada advertises the same. Only bug I know is never dial 1, just the area code and number.

For the 25 cent calls without a plan, you would get charged long distance if you are out of your local calling area, or if you go over your minute quota, you get charged long distance, as well as 25 cents a minute. Your local calling area is usually your province. If not on a plan, all incoming calls are charged as a local call, no matter where you are in Canada.

[bridonca]

Hi there, I was wondering how I would get a sim card to fit into an iphone if I go with SO or Petro Mobile since the sims for the iphone is smaller? Thank you.

Yes, there are tools available that can cut the SIM to fit in an iphone. The iphone is a pretty good phone for speakout data. Though some apps will not work, most will.

[john widow]

There has been little attention given to this, but I wanted to let everyone know. Petro Canada has seriously ruined their $40 unlimited plan by removing the Canada Wide Calling and Unlimited Long Distance from it. This plan is no longer worth it, especially when chatr has an unlimited plan for $25. People not in chatr zones are better off with Koodo which still has unlimited LD and Canada Wide Calling, but now for $55.

So for people that use a lot of voice minutes, PetroCan and Speakout are no longer serious contenders. Those people need to look at Chatr and Koodo, or Wind /Mobilicity depending on their budget and patience for reception issues.

for people that don't use a lot of voice minutes, Petrocan and Speakout remain the cheapest cell phone options in Canada.

Wait; I thought speakout offered canada wide calling within their normal services....did they just remove this option? So if I'm in Vancouver and make a phone call too Abbotsford or vice versa....how much am I being dinged?

Koodo offered a discount rate for 6months @ like $10/month..if i opted to stay.

[bridonca]

Wait; I thought speakout offered canada wide calling within their normal services....did they just remove this option? So if I'm in Vancouver and make a phone call too Abbotsford or vice versa....how much am I being dinged?

Koodo offered a discount rate for 6months @ like $10/month..if i opted to stay.

Unless I get corrected, I am under the belief that the whole province of BC is a local calling area, so you would not get charged for long distance while in BC, making a call anywhere in BC. If you made a call when you are not in BC, or a call to a location that in not in BC, you would get dinged long distance. With the new plans, all of Canada is a local calling area while you call within your selected minute quota.

[Kurtz7834]

Wait; I thought speakout offered canada wide calling within their normal services....did they just remove this option? So if I'm in Vancouver and make a phone call too Abbotsford or vice versa....how much am I being dinged?

Koodo offered a discount rate for 6months @ like $10/month..if i opted to stay.

I am speaking about Petro Canada, they removed Canada wide calling from their unlimited plan.

[Kurtz7834]

Where are you getting your information? I know from personal experience with Speakout, I can call most places in Canada without incurring long distance charges. Petro Canada advertises the same. Only bug I know is never dial 1, just the area code and number.

For the 25 cent calls without a plan, you would get charged long distance if you are out of your local calling area, or if you go over your minute quota, you get charged long distance, as well as 25 cents a minute. Your local calling area is usually your province. If not on a plan, all incoming calls are charged as a local call, no matter where you are in Canada.

I am speaking about Petro Canada. Speakout and Petro Canada are different providers, regardless of whether the same company runs them. I currently have the Petro Canada unlimited plan. Speakout has no unlimited plan. People that use a large amount of voice minutes cannot use Speakout.

http://mobility.petro-canada.ca/en/features/406.aspx

All of our plans feature:
•Free Voicemail
•Free Canada-wide anytime minutes
(excludes Unlimited plans) •National Coverage.
No zone restrictions
•Free Caller ID •Free Call Waiting •No contract
•Free Canada-wide long distance •Convenient automatic top ups online •No system access fees"

If you go to the Petro Canada Website, they now clearly state that Canada Wide Calling is excluded from the Unlimited Plan of $40. This was not the case when I signed up for this plan in late Sept. I am honestly not sure how that will work with the unlimited plan now. If your 'zone' is your province then it's still a good deal. They claim 'no zone restrictions' but no Canada Wide Calling on the Unlimited plan. This information is confusing and contradictory.

I know most of you guys are buying the cheaper plans and don't care, but for those that are using this as a home phone replacement like me, it matters.

The non unlimited plans retain the Canada Wide Calling.

[imoo2u]

Appreciate info/details on why it is necessary to provide IMEI when one activate SO sim only online. Does SO "lock" to that particular IMEI?

TIA

[Kurtz7834]

Appreciate info/details on why it is necessary to provide IMEI when one activate SO sim only online. Does SO "lock" to that particular IMEI?

TIA

I think they just want to know what make and model of phone you are using. You can enter any random IMEI from any phone and it will work fine though.

No, it is definitely not locked to the IMEI you gave when you registered.

[Kurtz7834]

hmmm... the plans I am looking at are identical in price. Am i missing something?

PetroCanada has the $40 unlimited plan which remains one of the best voice plans in Canada due to not being restricted to a zone like Chatr / Wind / Mobilicity etc. Speakout has no unlimited plan whatsoever.

Lots of people use more than 400 minutes a month and need an unlimited plan. I haven't checked my useage recently but I'm pretty sure I use 1000-1500 min a month, on average.

Technically, the Petro Canada plan is limited to 10,000 minutes a month, but if anyone can actually use that up they are wasting way too much of their life on the telephone.

[chimp]

I am speaking about Petro Canada. Speakout and Petro Canada are different providers, regardless of whether the same company runs them. I currently have the Petro Canada unlimited plan. Speakout has no unlimited plan. People that use a large amount of voice minutes cannot use Speakout.

http://mobility.petro-canada.ca/en/features/406.aspx

All of our plans feature:
•Free Voicemail
•Free Canada-wide anytime minutes
(excludes Unlimited plans) •National Coverage.
No zone restrictions
•Free Caller ID •Free Call Waiting •No contract
•Free Canada-wide long distance •Convenient automatic top ups online •No system access fees"

If you go to the Petro Canada Website, they now clearly state that Canada Wide Calling is excluded from the Unlimited Plan of $40. This was not the case when I signed up for this plan in late Sept. I am honestly not sure how that will work with the unlimited plan now. If your 'zone' is your province then it's still a good deal. They claim 'no zone restrictions' but no Canada Wide Calling on the Unlimited plan. This information is confusing and contradictory.

I know most of you guys are buying the cheaper plans and don't care, but for those that are using this as a home phone replacement like me, it matters.

The non unlimited plans retain the Canada Wide Calling.

I agree that it is confusing and don't even know what they mean by canada wide calling. Does it mean :

1. I can call outside my area(604) say to 416 free ? OR
2. I can call when I am outside my area(604) say I am in 416 and call 416 free ?

Incoming is equally confusing as is it covered in the unlimted plan when I am not in my own area(604) ?

Unfortunately, I never has this requirement so would never know, just curious. Only those who actually use it can deduce that from the balance.

[twin]

I agree that it is confusing and don't even know what they mean by canada wide calling. Does it mean :

1. I can call outside my area(604) say to 416 free ? OR
2. I can call when I am outside my area(604) say I am in 416 and call 416 free ?

Incoming is equally confusing as is it covered in the unlimited plan when I am not in my own area(604) ?

Unfortunately, I never has this requirement so would never know, just curious. Only those who actually use it can deduce that from the balance.

The way how Speakout considers as a long distance call is quite difference from other phone providers. If your phone area code is 604, your call to any phone with area code 604 or 778 is considered as local call, no matter where you and the other party are. In other words, if you are outside BC and you call someone's phone with 604 area code, it is still counted as local call. All calls to phone area code other than 604 or 778 will be counted as long distance calls. If you are in area 416 and call 416, it is a long distance call. However, if you are in 416 and call 604, it is a local call.

From Speakout FAQ:

“Are all numbers in my area code considered a local call?”
“Yes. SpeakOut Wireless offers a larger calling area than traditional wireless service providers. In fact, many areas in your province are considered a local call. See the current SpeakOut Rates.”

“While travelling, will my outgoing calls be long distance if they are local to the city I am visiting?”
“Yes. You are charged long distance charges for any calls while outside your local calling area. Your phone number is assigned to the area you designate your local area.”

[dwalker19]

If I have a 3G Android phone and use speakouts unlimited browsing for $10 a month, will it be at 3G and will it really be unlimited?

Thanks!

[bylo]

See: Speakout data and android (http://forums.redflagdeals.com/speakout-data-android-calling-all-users-tips-tricks-1053209/) and follow the instructions.

[aasoror]

Has anyone verified that Skype-to-Skype works (or any other voice chatting service) using the typical proxy trick ?

[dwalker19]

Do all of speakout's phones run off a SIM card?

Thanks!

[bridonca]

Do all of speakout's phones run off a SIM card?

Thanks!

All Speakout phones that are sold in Canada use a SIM card. They are all Nokia phones.

Apparently, in the US, 7 Eleven sold Speakout CDMA phones that were SIMless. I believe they now sell phones with SIM cards that use the AT&T network.

[bridonca]

Has anyone verified that Skype-to-Skype works (or any other voice chatting service) using the typical proxy trick ?

No, Skype will not work in any form. Even Skype texting is flaky. And you can forget VOIP.

[reddeals]

Yes, activate and take the number they assign. Then you can request them to port you out from Fido.

Can I port out old number from Bell? Thanks.

[edturon@hotmail.com]

Can I port out old number from Bell? Thanks.

spoke to speakout and had them port the number from fido,(fido number was still active)they did it over the phone.i did not call fido first to inform them i was switching pay as you go suppliers.

[bridonca]

Can I port out old number from Bell? Thanks.

You can port from any telco, if it is technically possible. Some rural exchanges cannot port to anyone.

This is how I got a decent number for Speakout. I subscribed to FIDO with one of it's 30 day free deals. Cost me $5 for the FIDO SIM card. You have a better choice of numbers with FIDO for some reason. on the 27th day, I did a port out to Speakout.

[TheRonald]

Can I port out old number from Bell? Thanks.
I just ported from Bell an old 416 number I had.Speakout changed my old Speakout number to new/old Bell number and used the same sim card.They were very accommodating.

[reddeals]

I just ported from Bell an old 416 number I had.Speakout changed my old Speakout number to new/old Bell number and used the same sim card.They were very accommodating.

Thanks for the info. My 3 yrs bell contract is expired today, I want to port the bell number over. Should I call bell first for cancellation or call Speakout first to request a port over?

[TheRonald]

Thanks for the info. My 3 yrs bell contract is expired today, I want to port the bell number over. Should I call bell first for cancellation or call Speakout first to request a port over?
Two important steps.First call Speakout,not Bell and start the process.Make sure your Bell account is in good standing with no balance owing.Then if all goes well and when number has been successfully ported just call Bell to confirm that your account is closed.As we all know you never can trust those thieves.

[Monopoly]

I have iPhone 4 locked to Telus. Can I use speak out sim card?

[totheh8ters]

I have iPhone 4 locked to Telus. Can I use speak out sim card?

Yes, you can use the sim card. No you can't use the sim card on your locked phone.

[bylo]

SO uses the Robbers network. You have to unlock the iPhone first if it came via Telus (or Bhell.)

[Milfman]

I have iPhone 4 locked to Telus. Can I use speak out sim card?

Seriously:?:

[reddeals]

Two important steps.First call Speakout,not Bell and start the process.Make sure your Bell account is in good standing with no balance owing.Then if all goes well and when number has been successfully ported just call Bell to confirm that your account is closed.As we all know you never can trust those thieves.

Thanks. Called Speakout yesterday night 10:00PM for port over Bell number, Speakout sent a message this morning at 9:00AM and the number is already ported out, that's really quick.

Anyway, called Bell and hope Bell will not charge me additional 30 days without notice. Will see.

[tarnator]

What exactly does the browsing function let you do?

I have never tried to add it to my plan, but have been using a SO sim in my 3G phone for a couple of years now. I just look for wireless hotspots when I need internet. Will browsing be useful for me?

[chimp]

UMB is a nice fill in for wifi. Say you are lost in finding a restaurant in a location you are not familiar, with UMB you can quickly bring up the map and/or google the shop address to find the phone number etc. That is better than searching around for starbucks/macdonalds.

Or say I am in a family dinner in a restaurant but need to quickly check my email.

Well at least that is how I used the data plan and why a low usage plan is good enough.

Can I use it to replace my home broadband ? Sure if I want to but why bother as it is much slower with all those caps and limitations etc.

[bridonca]

I have iPhone 4 locked to Telus. Can I use speak out sim card?

yes, but you would need to unlock the phone first.

[reddeals]

Thanks. Called Speakout yesterday night 10:00PM for port over Bell number, Speakout sent a message this morning at 9:00AM and the number is already ported out, that's really quick.

Anyway, called Bell and hope Bell will not charge me additional 30 days without notice. Will see.

Just Received an email from Bell:

"We require 30 days notice to complete this request as outlined in the terms of your service agreement. Your account will be cancelled on 11/24/2011.

Over the next 30 days, your account and mobile phone will remain active (unless otherwise notified) and you will be billed accordingly."

Bell will charge me additional 30 days, even the number is already ported over to Speakout. Any suggestion how to avoid this? I don't want to pay 30 days without any usage.

[Faust942]

Just Received an email from Bell:

"We require 30 days notice to complete this request as outlined in the terms of your service agreement. Your account will be cancelled on 11/24/2011.

Over the next 30 days, your account and mobile phone will remain active (unless otherwise notified) and you will be billed accordingly."

Bell will charge me additional 30 days, even the number is already ported over to Speakout. Any suggestion how to avoid this? I don't want to pay 30 days without any usage.

Only way I could think of is a transfer of ownership. Other than that its 30 days. Its industry standard with almost anything from telecom.

[dell11]

Only way I could think of is a transfer of ownership. Other than that its 30 days. Its industry standard with almost anything from telecom.

"industry standard" = legal stealing

[Faust942]

"industry standard" = legal stealing

Agreed, but thats what you get from the CRTC.

[bylo]

Bell will charge me additional 30 days, even the number is already ported over to Speakout.That the number is already ported is irrelevant. Somewhere in the terms you agreed to with Bhell, implicitly or explicitly, is the requirement that you give them 30 days notice. I agree that this sucks, but what did you expect from Bhell?


Any suggestion how to avoid this? I don't want to pay 30 days without any usage.You could escalate to their executive offices and try to get the 30 days notice waived. If you're lucky you might even succeed.

[chimp]

what is wrong they ask for 30 day notice ? It is just a term, you can disagree and don't enter into a contract in the first place. Beside, 30 day notice is not unfair either. If they ask for 12-month, that may be unfair.

[slowtyper]

You get the money back if u complain to the ccts. Its in all the contracts but they aren't supposed to do it. You will more likely be credited back when you tell bell you are going to complain to ccts

[mainoffender]

I'd heard about Bell requiring 30 days notice but when I called to ask about it after Telus ported my landline over the rep (after looking in their system at my next billing cycle) said I'd be reimbursed for the 30 days and sure enough I was. Maybe it was the type of contract I had with them or maybe they've changed their policy.

[Faust942]

I'd heard about Bell requiring 30 days notice but when I called to ask about it after Telus ported my landline over the rep (after looking in their system at my next billing cycle) said I'd be reimbursed for the 30 days and sure enough I was. Maybe it was the type of contract I had with them or maybe they've changed their policy.

Yeah the 30 day notice can't be waived, but the cost of the 30 days can be credited back. Its really up to the agent.

[LeeBear]

what is wrong they ask for 30 day notice ? It is just a term, you can disagree and don't enter into a contract in the first place. Beside, 30 day notice is not unfair either. If they ask for 12-month, that may be unfair.

The problem isn't about giving them the 30 day notice. The problem is the way its implemented in the incumbents system. If you call 30 days before you want to port your number over (ie. give them 30 day notice) they will put your phone number on "freeze" which means you can't port your number. If you want to keep your number the only way to do this is not give the 30 day notice (so they don't freeze your number), but then you'll get charge an extra month for not giving them the 30 day notice.

You see the problem? There system is artificially in place to get an extra month from people leaving. Yes I know you can get the month credited back by filling a complaint with the CCTS, but you shouldn't have to... and for everyone one person that files a complaint there's probably 99 people who doesn't so the incumbents making huge profits even on people leaving there service.

-LeeBear

[aasoror]

No, Skype will not work in any form. Even Skype texting is flaky. And you can forget VOIP.

Thank you for the reply, thankfully I didn't take the advice and went ahead with the port and my experience is contrary to what you listed above.

[Master]

is there an expiry date for the sim? Think I'll use it only in Feb next year.

[jp149]

haha I ported out of robber with less than 30 days left on my contract. they tried to charge me 100 for ECF and the 30 days for the mandatory notice period. what losers. I got the $100 bucks back. complete imbeciles working over there.

[slowtyper]

Thank you for the reply, thankfully I didn't take the advice and went ahead with the port and my experience is contrary to what you listed above.
Hi can you elaborate? What phone and is Skype fully functional over data?

[tkl]

haha I ported out of robber with less than 30 days left on my contract. they tried to charge me 100 for ECF and the 30 days for the mandatory notice period. what losers. I got the $100 bucks back. complete imbeciles working over there.

I ported from Telus with 3 ( THREE ! ) days left on my contract. They refused to take back the $ 100.00 ECF no matter who I spoke to. They said I broke the contract. " Wouldn't matter if it was a second early ". I wrote to the Office of the President as suggest by them. After getting no response after 8 days , I wrote to a consumer advocate group and waited another week. I then checked with Telus and confirmed it was finally retracted but they never bothered to respond to me.

They could have done that at the beginning but decided to make me jump through hoops. I'm never going back.

[aasoror]

Hi can you elaborate? What phone and is Skype fully functional over data?

LG O1, with the proxy workaround.
Skype to Skype : working fine.
Skype out : working fine.
Skype in: don't have a skype number but not sure why would that (of all other features) wont work.

The LG O1 is running CM7, so my guess is any other android phone should be able to do it.

[bridonca]

Thank you for the reply, thankfully I didn't take the advice and went ahead with the port and my experience is contrary to what you listed above.

I like being wrong, I hope I am wrong. How did you get Skype working with Speakout data?

[aasoror]

I like being wrong, I hope I am wrong. How did you get Skype working with Speakout data?

There is no need to hope my friend because you ARE wrong. ;)
You think I am the only one ? There are tons of positive reports, just check here (http://forums.redflagdeals.com/speakout-data-android-calling-all-users-tips-tricks-1053209/).

[chimp]

good to know that rogers doesn't employ big guns to watch for skype patterns. Though I don't like skype anyway.

EDIT:
If Skype works, it means some other thing is going to work as well if used properly which can turn this into a full feature service but need help on the other side. thanks for sharing the information. I know what to do now if I really need full ip service.

[aasoror]

If Skype works, it means some other thing is going to work as well if used properly which can turn this into a full feature service but need help on the other side.
Google voice (or anything based on it) doesn't work.
Yahoo messenger connect but can't make voice calls.
fring, Tango, qik wouldn't connect.

I am sure that this would mean VoIP ports are blocked, but what I think that also means is Skype isn't using these VoIP ports (or perhaps its something related to the support of communication protocol itself, like UDP vs. TCP).

[chimp]

you are correct. anything that needs UDP is not going to work, the proxy is TCP only. Anything that needs port other than 443/80 is not going to work.

For the phone itself, there isn't much one can do unless you want to get into pretty advanced linux hacking(doable if your phone is powerful enough with enough RAM and rooted). But if you are using a PC/Mac, it is easier.

For those who is interested, the only hints I can give are some terms which you can search on google: openvpn, http proxy, iptables, linux vps.

I used the same tactic to penentrate corporate network policy.

As a smart phone, I don't really need that.

BTW, google voice is supposed to be a http only service and should work fine. What do you mean it doesn't work ? making calls may have problem but the google voice application(i.e. send/receive SMS) should work fine.

[aasoror]

BTW, google voice is supposed to be a http only service and should work fine. What do you mean it doesn't work ? making calls may have problem but the google voice application(i.e. send/receive SMS) should work fine.

Talkatone (ios): fails to connect to google servers.
GrooVe IP (android): fails to connect to google servers.

Haven't tried sending SMS via the google voice application though.

p.s.: Skype (ios) fails to connect too (even with the wifi mocking apps running), so it might be implementation related for the android version.

[chimp]

Talkatone (ios): fails to connect to google servers.
GrooVe IP (android): fails to connect to google servers.

Haven't tried sending SMS via the google voice application though.

p.s.: Skype (ios) fails to connect too (even with the wifi mocking apps running), so it might be implementation related for the android version.

most VOIP apps would not work as they need UDP(or alternative port) for the stream so brianca is not 100% wrong. skype is a rare exception and as you have observed, is still OS dependent.

But having one version of skype work gives me enough information of what the proxy allow/not allow. My conclusion is that the proxy is just like a typical corporate proxy so all my tricks that works for corporate is going to work on this as well.

[aasoror]

I have both Rogers and Fido sim cards. I put them in the Nokia 1661. It works on both, but don't know if it would work for sim other than these two providers.

Are there any other confirmations about this ? most reports seems to be mixed.
All reports about the 1661 working with Rogers SIM are positive.
Not so sure about the 1661 working with Fido SIM though.

I have seen some ads in the BST section claiming compatibility with ALL Rogers operated providers (Fido, Speakout, Petro Canada).

Any insights is appreciated.

[chimp]

Are there any other confirmations about this ? most reports seems to be mixed.
All reports about the 1661 working with Rogers SIM are positive.
Not so sure about the 1661 working with Fido SIM though.

I have seen some ads in the BST section claiming compatibility with ALL Rogers operated providers (Fido, Speakout, Petro Canada).

Any insights is appreciated.

I sold a 1661 to a friend and their family is on fido and he said it worked. But there are people said that it doesn't so as usual, it is confusing.

[slowtyper]

Since the valueplans have free Canada Long Distance...

I know that means I can call canada-wide, but what about when I am in a different province...is that free also? I'm thinking about getting a number in a different province so others can call me cheaply (who don't have canada-wide long distance).

[bertam2]

Thanks OP for this post. Spent the past couple of days researching this and decided to take the leap. Managed to find 7/11 at Dufferin & St. Clair here in Toronto (1169 St. Clair West) with about a half dozen SIMs behind the cash. Bought one for myself and decided to go back yesterday to grab a couple more for family who may be interested in doing the same.

Happy to report that for $11.25 a month ($10 for data and $1.25 for 911 fee), got my gmail and internet at 3G, with most other apps working. Phone is an iPhone 3GS and couldn't be happier with the results. As already posted many times previously, this is a GREAT plan if you simply want data on the go ... not so great if you need to text and talk. For my needs, it's perfect.

Thanks again OP.
PS - if for some reason, family and friends don't want to go this route, I may have 2 extra SIMs up for grabs ...

[dngo12]

Hey guys I just bought a SO sim card. I am going to port my Fido PAYG phone number to my SO sim card. I'm not going to port until at least another 1-2 weeks because my PAYG still has money balance on it that can be used.

Question:

Should I activate the sim card first then call to port? I haven't activated it yet.

[bridonca]

Hey guys I just bought a SO sim card. I am going to port my Fido PAYG phone number to my SO sim card. I'm not going to port until at least another 1-2 weeks because my PAYG still has money balance on it that can be used.

Question:

Should I activate the sim card first then call to port? I haven't activated it yet.

Unless you have a pressing need to use that Speakout SIM card, I would not activate it until 3 days before the FIDO SIM card expires. You can activate the Speakout SIM card and start the porting process on the same phone call.

[blattant1]

Anybody find any stock in the Toronto area? I have been searching for a couple of weeks and still no luck. Any help in tracking down 2 of these would be greatly appreciated.

[Sepharite]

Anybody find any stock in the Toronto area? I have been searching for a couple of weeks and still no luck. Any help in tracking down 2 of these would be greatly appreciated.

There are tons downtown.

But what I did was call early morning (10am, when they open up the safe) and reserve one. Simple as that.

[SockPirate]

Thanks OP for this post. Spent the past couple of days researching this and decided to take the leap. Managed to find 7/11 at Dufferin & St. Clair here in Toronto (1169 St. Clair West) with about a half dozen SIMs behind the cash. Bought one for myself and decided to go back yesterday to grab a couple more for family who may be interested in doing the same.

Happy to report that for $11.25 a month ($10 for data and $1.25 for 911 fee), got my gmail and internet at 3G, with most other apps working. Phone is an iPhone 3GS and couldn't be happier with the results. As already posted many times previously, this is a GREAT plan if you simply want data on the go ... not so great if you need to text and talk. For my needs, it's perfect.

Thanks again OP.
PS - if for some reason, family and friends don't want to go this route, I may have 2 extra SIMs up for grabs ...

Am doing exactly the same thing and think this is by far the best deal available for a smartphone. Textnow with push enabled has worked flawlessly with Iphone 4 and Speakout browsing package so I also get free unlimited incoming/outgoing texts as well. Negatives: push seems to drain my battery a fair amount and my # is a "weird" us number that some may have to pay extra to text to.

[Inno]

Are these regular size sim or micro to fit in the iPhone?

Or would I need to hack it down to fit?

[bridonca]

Are these regular size sim or micro to fit in the iPhone?

Or would I need to hack it down to fit?

Currently, you would have to hack it down to fit. No micro SIM cards yet

[Kurtz7834]

Anybody find any stock in the Toronto area? I have been searching for a couple of weeks and still no luck. Any help in tracking down 2 of these would be greatly appreciated.

Most of the stores have stock. Keep in mind, they are behind the counter to prevent theft, so you won't see them walking into the store. Best thing to do is go on the 711 website, get the numbers of the stores near you, and phone them to confirm they have SIMs and head down to get it. That's what I did. I see you're in Etobicoke, there are not a lot of 711 stores directly around you.

[Master]

do you guys buy the $25 at the same time?

[blattant1]

Thanks for the help guys

[Kurtz7834]

do you guys buy the $25 at the same time?

It says on the SIM not to be sold without airtime, but from my experience most stores do not abide by this rule and will sell you the SIM alone for $10. Of course, you will need to buy airtime to actually use the SIM anyways. So you might as well buy airtime at the same time.

[Master]

thanks kurtz. Has anyone being successful in using whatspp on the unlimited browsing plan?

[Torque]

Anyone see them recently in Calgary?
I went to 3 stores in the NW, and no luck.

[bridonca]

Anyone see them recently in Calgary?
I went to 3 stores in the NW, and no luck.

I know in Okotoks, the SIM cards were hidden away. My sister had to force the issue to get one.

[Sepharite]

thanks kurtz. Has anyone being successful in using whatspp on the unlimited browsing plan?

It works fine.

I pay $10 for the 2,500 text, so I don't really need it.

[grouch]

It works fine.

I pay $10 for the 2,500 text, so I don't really need it.

on what phone or o/s? it doesn't work on my samsung galaxy vibrant
mind sharing your settings if you had to configure it?

thanks

[chimp]

android phone needs something like autoproxy for most apps to work, unless you app has proxy support built in.

while talking about apps(which needs data), 7/11's UMB seems to be restricted to 2G(EDGE) speed now. So be warned if you want 3G data. The most impacted usage is of course iPhone where 95% of the apps work on UMB but now at a much reduced speed, we are talking about iPhone 2G experience now.

[LNahid2000]

android phone needs something like autoproxy for most apps to work, unless you app has proxy support built in.

while talking about apps(which needs data), 7/11's UMB seems to be restricted to 2G(EDGE) speed now. So be warned if you want 3G data. The most impacted usage is of course iPhone where 95% of the apps work on UMB but now at a much reduced speed, we are talking about iPhone 2G experience now.
3G seems to work fine for me. I've done speed tests and have gotten as much as 5mbps.

[chimp]

3G seems to work fine for me. I've done speed tests and have gotten as much as 5mbps.

It seems that this has not spread to all area but more and more people are reporting the same issue. I used to have 3G at my location and now only get EDGE/GSM, only for the SO sim. My global roaming SIM on the other hand is still able to access UMTS, from the exact same location, just switching the card would so the difference, within a minute.

[adsl17910]

I get EDGE speed only with SO's unlimited browsing plan. :mad:

[HunterSlayer]

What's the difference between this and Petro Canada's service?

[Sepharite]

on what phone or o/s? it doesn't work on my samsung galaxy vibrant
mind sharing your settings if you had to configure it?

thanks

Im also using a Vibrant and the latest gingerbread, with autoproxy for proxy configuration.

10.128.1.69
80
Http

Enabled
wapuser1
wap

In that exact order. Hope that works.

[bridonca]

What's the difference between this and Petro Canada's service?

For the most part, they are pretty close to the same. Ztar provides both services, and rent out airtime on the Rogers network.
Little things, like one has cheaper phones, another has cheaper SIM cards, one has better unlimited options, the other has a better minimum topup. Visit these sites to compare the differences.

http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/
http://mobility.petro-canada.ca/default.aspx

[Sepharite]

How are the 3G speeds for Petro Canada? I mean, does it use the same Rogers towers like Speakout?

[paaji]

I am looking for data and talk. Is it better to go with Speakout or Wind?
Does anyone list of apps work with data? I have iphone 3gs.
Thanks

[bridonca]

How are the 3G speeds for Petro Canada? I mean, does it use the same Rogers towers like Speakout?

The 3G speeds are good enough for browsing. It depends a lot on the traffic on that tower. Bear in mind, you are not being promised 3G speeds. In some areas, you can be dropped down to 2G on the whims of Rogers.

[bridonca]

I am looking for data and talk. Is it better to go with Speakout or Wind?
Does anyone list of apps work with data? I have iphone 3gs.
Thanks

You would likely be better off getting a Petro Canada SIM instead. The plans seem to be better for your needs. Wind is probably not a good choice for you if you want to keep your iPhone. It's zone is pretty limited also.

[Robin9]

I have an Rogers SIM that used before, can I just use this old Rogers SIM and buy 7/11 $25 card to save this $10?

[Andro]

I have an Rogers SIM that used before, can I just use this old Rogers SIM and buy 7/11 $25 card to save this $10?

no, you need their SIM

[HunterSlayer]

Is anyone on Petro Canada mobile experiencing the same data issues as Speakout? I like Speakout's plans more but I need 3G data at least.

[bridonca]

Is anyone on Petro Canada mobile experiencing the same data issues as Speakout? I like Speakout's plans more but I need 3G data at least.

If you want 3G, don't get Speakout or Petro Canada then. And they are not data issues. 3G is not guaranteed by either carrier.

[mzd369]

no, you need their SIM

Thank you!

[et3rn1ty]

Can I buy the sim card and port the number right away to another provider without buying the prepaid voucher?
I am thinking of getting a cell phone number and port it to Mobilicity and take advantage of their $200 credits promo.
Will that work?

[aasoror]

Can I buy the sim card and port the number right away to another provider without buying the prepaid voucher?
I am thinking of getting a cell phone number and port it to Mobilicity and take advantage of their $200 credits promo.
Will that work?

In theory yes, because the line activation process (where you open the account, register the SIM and get a number) is separate from voucher activation.

[mobifree]

Can I buy the sim card and port the number right away to another provider without buying the prepaid voucher?
I am thinking of getting a cell phone number and port it to Mobilicity and take advantage of their $200 credits promo.
Will that work?

Yes you can.
I activated a SIM, have my # and $0 (haven't purchased a topup voucher yet).
I've had it for weeks now (bought it 1 week after this thread was opened) and I've been receiving SMS on that # since then.
I still have not topped up.

[bridonca]

Can I buy the sim card and port the number right away to another provider without buying the prepaid voucher?
I am thinking of getting a cell phone number and port it to Mobilicity and take advantage of their $200 credits promo.
Will that work?

If you are going to do that, do it with Bell or Telus, or FIDO. You get a better choice of numbers than with a Speakout SIM card. Another option would be to get DID from a VOIP provider that allows porting like voip.ms. a number can cost you $2 or less.

[et3rn1ty]

If you are going to do that, do it with Bell or Telus, or FIDO. You get a better choice of numbers than with a Speakout SIM card. Another option would be to get DID from a VOIP provider that allows porting like voip.ms. a number can cost you $2 or less.

Actually what I want to do is just to try their unlimited data plan. I am still gonna keep my voice plan with Fido for now so then I'll be carrying two phones but the other one just acts as my mobile hotspot lol
I don't know much about voip porting but I don't think I can get the Mobilicity credits if I do that. I think the credits only apply when you port from rogers bell telus and friends

[chimp]

don't bother for the UMB unless you only want to use it for messaging based app. Many people are having problem getting 3G(which was only an informal offering and seems to be removed from SO) and at 200-300kbps, it is not usable for things like browsing or maps etc.

In fact, if it is at EDGE speed, I would expect it drop the price to 5 bucks/month.

[slowtyper]

don't bother for the UMB unless you only want to use it for messaging based app. Many people are having problem getting 3G(which was only an informal offering and seems to be removed from SO) and at 200-300kbps, it is not usable for things like browsing or maps etc.

In fact, if it is at EDGE speed, I would expect it drop the price to 5 bucks/month.

I disagree. I'm using it at edge speed and for browsing and maps it works fine. In fact it is very useful and at $10 a month I consider it a steal (which I think technically it is since we aren't supposed to be using it as such).

[chimp]

well I can only say that different people have different tolerance then, and I am not the kind of people who wants the fastest. I used to subscribe to the Telus Internet Lite, giving you an idea my idea of usable internet speed.

A modern day web page can easily chew up 500KB for each page, giving you an idea of about the scale we are talking about.

[qianquan]

but now it is too slow to use many app like youtube, even maps...I was thinking if they monitored my data usage, and dropped my speed...

[et3rn1ty]

sorry for being a bit off topic here, so you guys think mobilicity data plan is not worth it?

[M-e-X-x]

android phone needs something like autoproxy for most apps to work, unless you app has proxy support built in.

while talking about apps(which needs data), 7/11's UMB seems to be restricted to 2G(EDGE) speed now. So be warned if you want 3G data. The most impacted usage is of course iPhone where 95% of the apps work on UMB but now at a much reduced speed, we are talking about iPhone 2G experience now.


I get EDGE speed only with SO's unlimited browsing plan. :mad:


don't bother for the UMB unless you only want to use it for messaging based app. Many people are having problem getting 3G(which was only an informal offering and seems to be removed from SO) and at 200-300kbps, it is not usable for things like browsing or maps etc.

In fact, if it is at EDGE speed, I would expect it drop the price to 5 bucks/month.

Hmmm, might be an issue happening in BC? Out east we're ok at the moment? I switched to 2G just to save battery life on my Galaxy Gio (3G eats battery in a day.)

[got_it_4_cheap]

a bit ot but doesn't speakout usually have their buy $100 credit and get a free phone or $40 off phones around the holiday season? anyone know if there will be one this year?

[MJB]

Yes you can.
I activated a SIM, have my # and $0 (haven't purchased a topup voucher yet).
I've had it for weeks now (bought it 1 week after this thread was opened) and I've been receiving SMS on that # since then.
I still have not topped up.

Thanks, this is useful info. I have an extra phone and SIM lying around, useful to give the kids to receive texts on the odd occasion, all for $0. They are from a few years ago when you got a free phone with $100 top up.
Its interesting that they don't/can't charge the 911 fee or cut service.

[aasoror]

a bit ot but doesn't speakout usually have their buy $100 credit and get a free phone or $40 off phones around the holiday season? anyone know if there will be one this year?

That was a back to school promo from last year.
This year it replaced by buy $100 voucher and get 50% off any phone (this already expired).
The current running promo is buy $50 voucher and get $20 off any phone. This is a good one, given that the phones comes with a sim ($10 value) and $5 (credit) and as low as $20 (the Nokia 1661 with $50 voucher).

[Kurtz7834]

If you want 3G, don't get Speakout or Petro Canada then. And they are not data issues. 3G is not guaranteed by either carrier.

+1. It's $10 a month, and some people are expecting unlimited 3G access... :|

[Kurtz7834]

Yes you can.
I activated a SIM, have my # and $0 (haven't purchased a topup voucher yet).
I've had it for weeks now (bought it 1 week after this thread was opened) and I've been receiving SMS on that # since then.
I still have not topped up.

This will work for a short time, then I think your account will eventually be frozen when they cannot deduct the 911 fee which is roughly $1.50 per month.

[Kurtz7834]

Thanks, this is useful info. I have an extra phone and SIM lying around, useful to give the kids to receive texts on the odd occasion, all for $0. They are from a few years ago when you got a free phone with $100 top up.
Its interesting that they don't/can't charge the 911 fee or cut service.

Eventually they will cut service when your balance cannot cover the $1.50 911 fee. The fact you can keep an active line for free unlimited incoming texts as well as unlimited checking of voice mail from a remote number, call display etc. - all for under $2 a month is extremely generous.

People should not abuse this or they will change the plan, especially the $25 topup with 365 day expiry.

[bylo]

The current running promo is buy $50 voucher and get $20 off any phone. This is a good one, given that the phones comes with a sim ($10 value) and $5 (credit) and as low as $20 (the Nokia 1661 with $50 voucher).
I saw something the other day about the usual Christmas promo, buy $100 airtime and get their cheapest phone for free, will start again on 16Nov11. It might be worth waiting another week.

[Kurtz7834]

I saw something the other day about the usual Christmas promo, buy $100 airtime and get their cheapest phone for free, will start again on 16Nov11. It might be worth waiting another week.

The Nokia 1661 is a terrible phone though. No Bluetooth and feels like a phone from several years ago. Either get a C3 which is the only good Speakout phone, or just use another unlocked phone of your choice.

[iEye]

Anyone have a 2G iPhone with youtube working?

Mine does not work but Opera mini 6 does... HTTP

Youtube would be great...

[aasoror]

I saw something the other day about the usual Christmas promo, buy $100 airtime and get their cheapest phone for free, will start again on 16Nov11. It might be worth waiting another week.

Thanks for the heads up, would have saved $40 had I waited rather than switching earlier this month, but would have had to pay Koodo $30 + taxes for a one month of service.

[duckdown]

These ****ing SIM cards are nowhere to be found.

Called 5 7-11 locations in the area (1 in Brampton, 4 in Mississauga) and literally NONE of them have the SIM cards. They all said they're "supposed" to be getting them soon, but have 0 available

Which stores in the GTA have these god damn things, confirmed?

[duckdown]

Also, just out of curiosity, what happens if I pop the 7-11 speakout SIM card into my Mobilicity Nexus S? Would it work for just talk & text without data?

[Homer88]

Also, just out of curiosity, what happens if I pop the 7-11 speakout SIM card into my Mobilicity Nexus S? Would it work for just talk & text without data?

Yes. The Nexus S supports GSM850/1900 which is what Speakout/Rogers uses for talk/text. You can't do the other way around though (e.g Popping a Mobilicity sim into a Rogers phone)

[bargain_deal]

Also, just out of curiosity, what happens if I pop the 7-11 speakout SIM card into my Mobilicity Nexus S? Would it work for just talk & text without data?

i have tried it and it works. you have to go and change the setting to GSM.

[qca7e]

Anyone have experience porting to Speakout from Fido when you have more than one line on one account?

I am worried that they will port the wrong line over since my other lines are under contract and 7-11 website says they use your account number to port.

Is there a special procedure for this?

Want to make sure there is no chance for screw up b4 buying a 7-11 sim.

[aasoror]

Anyone have experience porting to Speakout from Fido when you have more than one line on one account?

I am worried that they will port the wrong line over since my other lines are under contract and 7-11 website says they use your account number to port.

Is there a special procedure for this?

Want to make sure there is no chance for screw up b4 buying a 7-11 sim.

What counts is the phone number you provide them for the port.
If you don't want to provide the account number they will also accept your name: first last, but again it serves the same effect "locating your account".

[got_it_4_cheap]

http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/asset/upload/image/speakoutPromotion/97-39-off-any-phone-920x400-920x400.jpg

time to get nokia c3 and surf the net for free on wifi :cheesygri

[chimp]

C3 is not for surfing, most people would be very disappointed about the experience.

[jafakin]

does anyone knows if the 7 eleven on queen and jones carries the sim?

[bylo]

does anyone knows if the 7 eleven on queen and jones carries the sim?
Have you phoned the store and asked? I imagine they have a better handle on their inventory than anyone here ;)

BTW the owner of this site is Yellow Pages Group. Somehow I suspect they might have a way for you to find the store's phone number ;)

Added: They do! They do! (http://www.yellowpages.ca/search/map.html#tabs=tabs-main&base=what%3D7%2Beleven%26uwhere%3Dontario%26lat%3D 43.66102623%26lon%3D-79.33418512%26dist%3D1%26perf%3D75%26tlGeo%3D43.66 742148485897%252C-79.34118032455446%26brGeo%3D43.654614783423014%252 C-79.32716846466066%26rotate%3D0%26zl%3D16&main=sflag%3Dbn%26pg%3D1%26lid%3D%26br%3D%26br_pid %3D%26nbWhat%3D%26blockMapUpdate%3Dfalse%26useWord %3Dfalse%26newData%3Dtrue%26initialGeoWhere%3DSudb ury%2BDistrict%252C%2BON%26prevGeoWhere%3D%26sendA nalytics%3Dfalse%26prevAEGeoWhere%3DToronto%252C%2 BON%26layerBlockMapUpdate%3Dfalse%26m%3Dtrue)

[RazzleDazzle]

Just to give everyone a heads up, as of November 2nd, there have been multiple reports of Rogers disabling 3G service for SO users across Canada.
It has not affected everyone, but it seems more prevalent in high density areas.
You can follow the threads at: http://www.speakoutwireless.ca/speak/phone-features/

[kashwashwa]

Just wondering if someone can give me a bit of help...

I recently bought an unlocked jailbroken iphone 3G. It came with no sim card.

I just bought one of these speakout sim cards and $35 voucher. I activated the SIM card on the website, and then installed it into the phone, but it won't actually make a phone call.

When I go to look at the phone number in settings it says "Unknown".

Does anyone know what I can do about this? Could it be related to the sim card, or do you think it may be something to do with the phone? Thanks for any info.

[Zunair]

Cant find any SIM anywhere.

Anyone has any confirm reports where SIM card is still available. They are saying that there has been a delay and it won't be available until next month or so.

Also any alternative way of gettin Sim Card? Online?

[iEye]

time to get nokia c3 and surf the net for free on wifi :cheesygri

Nokia C3 is a POS if you think you can surf on it you are on crack...

this thing is suck garbage even with opera mini you have to disable images for some sites!

and if you use the nokia native browser and disable images it will still crash the phone if you try to visit RFD..

[bylo]

Nokia C3 is a POS if you think you can surf on it you are on crack...
Presumably if you want SO's browsing option you'll want a real smartphone, not the C3, so you might as well spend $100 on airtime, get the free Nokia 1661 and flog it privately for whatever you can get. On the browsing option you'll burn through the $100 in 8 months ($100/$11.25) even if you don't make any phone calls.

I don't know if it would make more sense to flog the phone with a SIM (add $10) or not because I'd imagine most buyers would already have the SIM from their current carrier (assuming the want to replace a broken GSM phone to the end of their current contract with Robbers/Fido.)

[crazi]

If I were to say buy online, would shipping be free? It doesn't say.

[aasoror]

If I were to say buy online, would shipping be free? It doesn't say.

Why don't you go through checkout and see ?!

[taigong]

i have tried it and it works. you have to go and change the setting to GSM.

So, the Mobilicity Nexus S is not locked?

[bargain_deal]

nexus S always comes unlocked.

[grouch]

Cant find any SIM anywhere.

Anyone has any confirm reports where SIM card is still available. They are saying that there has been a delay and it won't be available until next month or so.

Also any alternative way of gettin Sim Card? Online?


These ****ing SIM cards are nowhere to be found.

Called 5 7-11 locations in the area (1 in Brampton, 4 in Mississauga) and literally NONE of them have the SIM cards. They all said they're "supposed" to be getting them soon, but have 0 available

Which stores in the GTA have these god damn things, confirmed?

don mills has unless they recently sold out
i have an extra lying around, if anyone still wants one shipped out.

[Sepharite]

Sooo glad 3G is back up in Scarborough. Hope it's up for everyone else!

[bmorris53]

Sooo glad 3G is back up in Scarborough. Hope it's up for everyone else!

Yes, it came back last week to Victoria too. Really makes you appreciate the speed when you are put on Edge for a few weeks!

[dngo12]

So I bought a sim card from 7-eleven and then I called in to port my phone number from Fido. The lady said that they would send me a new sim card?

I never ported a phone number before so I thought they would just do something to the sim card I have now.

[Avenger]

So I bought a sim card from 7-eleven and then I called in to port my phone number from Fido. The lady said that they would send me a new sim card?

I never ported a phone number before so I thought they would just do something to the sim card I have now.

They won't send you a new sim, your old number will activate on the current sim.

[radeonboy]

Hey guys sorry to bring this back up but this applies to this thread.

Say my account balance expires Jan 13, 2012...Do I top up BEFORE this date or will I be able to top up after this date?

What happens when Jan 1, 2012 comes around, will my balance from 2011 roll forward? Im confused...Does it expire at the end of the year or on the above date?

[twin]

Hey guys sorry to bring this back up but this applies to this thread.

Say my account balance expires Jan 13, 2012...Do I top up BEFORE this date or will I be able to top up after this date?

What happens when Jan 1, 2012 comes around, will my balance from 2011 roll forward? Im confused...Does it expire at the end of the year or on the above date?
Top up on Jan 13, 2012 latest.

Your balance will roll over until Jan 13, 2012.

[aasoror]

You can topup up to 45 days after the expiry, but your expired credit wont roll over. After 45 days you might lose your number.
For your credit to roll over you need to top up before the expiry date.


Hey guys sorry to bring this back up but this applies to this thread.

Say my account balance expires Jan 13, 2012...Do I top up BEFORE this date or will I be able to top up after this date?

What happens when Jan 1, 2012 comes around, will my balance from 2011 roll forward? Im confused...Does it expire at the end of the year or on the above date?

[kevv]

Hey guys sorry to bring this back up but this applies to this thread.

Say my account balance expires Jan 13, 2012...Do I top up BEFORE this date or will I be able to top up after this date?

What happens when Jan 1, 2012 comes around, will my balance from 2011 roll forward? Im confused...Does it expire at the end of the year or on the above date?


top up jan12 at the latest ,i got srewed thinking expiry date was the last day

[voltio8836]

i am trying to activate this speakout sim card and I have the activation code but no store number.

when i call they ask for the store number, wtf.

[Kurtz7834]

i am trying to activate this speakout sim card and I have the activation code but no store number.

when i call they ask for the store number, wtf.

When you activate online you don't need that.

[Dave98]

Can anyone who has purchased a SpeakOut SIM card recently tell me if it's a 2G style SIM or 3G?

http://i44.tinypic.com/rvdgzl.jpg

If you don't know the difference, you can point out whether you have the one on the left or right.

Apparently, iPhones with newer basebands such a the one in iOS 5 won't even detect the 2G cards.

Thanks

[dwalker19]

Can anyone who has purchased a SpeakOut SIM card recently tell me if it's a 2G style SIM or 3G?

http://i44.tinypic.com/rvdgzl.jpg

If you don't know the difference, you can point out whether you have the one on the left or right.

Apparently, iPhones with newer basebands such a the one in iOS 5 won't even detect the 2G cards.

Thanks

I have an iPhone 3GS running iOS 5 and the SIM card works fine. I get unlimited 3G for $10 a month! (it is the one on the right)

[duckdown]

I tried finding these SIM cards in-store last month and they were nowhere to be found. They had the empty SIM card packets on the shelf, but none of the stores actually had them physically in stock. Tried 2 locations in Mississauga and the one downtown Brampton.. Are they finally available now?

[thelefteyeguy]

I tried finding these SIM cards in-store last month and they were nowhere to be found. They had the empty SIM card packets on the shelf, but none of the stores actually had them physically in stock. Tried 2 locations in Mississauga and the one downtown Brampton.. Are they finally available now?

i had to drive to PICKERING! lol....that was about a month ago.

[duckdown]

i had to drive to PICKERING! lol....that was about a month ago.

LOL, wow.. Pretty weird that these are so hard to come by, especially when all the stores and their websites advertise them as being readily available, but clearly they are not.. How annoying

[Andro]

I tried finding these SIM cards in-store last month and they were nowhere to be found. They had the empty SIM card packets on the shelf, but none of the stores actually had them physically in stock. Tried 2 locations in Mississauga and the one downtown Brampton.. Are they finally available now?

before you go there, just call each store to check :idea:

[duckdown]

before you go there, just call each store to check :idea:

Tried that, most of their employees don't even speak English, getting an answer out of them for the SIM cards was like pulling teeth.. But yeah after I struck out at 3 stores I called the rest in the area and didn't have any luck

[paaji]

I purchased sim card from Petro-Canada and been using for a month or so. I am on unlimited plan (talk/text/data) for $49. So far all the apps on iPhone works fine. I had trouble with some of the apps before where it will disconnect. Something happened last week or so where all apps start working.
Good for those who doesn’t want to sign up for contract.

My question if I have locked Rogers/Fido phone will it work with Petro or Speakout since they use Rogers network?

Thanks OP

[rivet]

Rogers locked phone works not sure about fido pjones

[Dave98]

I have an iPhone 3GS running iOS 5 and the SIM card works fine. I get unlimited 3G for $10 a month! (it is the one on the right)

Thanks. The one on the right would be the correct 3G one. My issue was that I had the SIM card on the left and after updating to iOS 5, the iPhone would no longer detect it. It looks like I have to pick up a 3G card.

Has anyone else had this issue?



I purchased sim card from Petro-Canada and been using for a month or so. I am on unlimited plan (talk/text/data) for $49. So far all the apps on iPhone works fine. I had trouble with some of the apps before where it will disconnect. Something happened last week or so where all apps start working.
Good for those who doesn’t want to sign up for contract.

My question if I have locked Rogers/Fido phone will it work with Petro or Speakout since they use Rogers network?

Thanks OP

I don't know about Fido but a Rogers locked phone would work fine.

[frankw]

I tried finding these SIM cards in-store last month and they were nowhere to be found. They had the empty SIM card packets on the shelf, but none of the stores actually had them physically in stock. Tried 2 locations in Mississauga and the one downtown Brampton.. Are they finally available now?


Probably a silly question, but why not just order it online for delivery from 7-Eleven if there is no stock nearby?

[Sepharite]

Probably a silly question, but why not just order it online for delivery from 7-Eleven if there is no stock nearby?

Not possible unless you buy the $39 phone.

[WyldWolf]

i am trying to activate this speakout sim card and I have the activation code but no store number.

when i call they ask for the store number, wtf.

Just a thought but did u try 7-11 :cheesygri

[frankw]

Not possible unless you buy the $39 phone.

Ex-squeeze me, but I got mine last week and I am in Halifax.

http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/phones/speakout-sim-card

[Sepharite]

Ex-squeeze me, but I got mine last week and I am in Halifax.

http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/phones/speakout-sim-card

Oh, excuse my ignorance.

I didn't know they allowed that now. That's good to know!

[mcaj2]

Is there a way to change phone numbers and transfer remaining balance? A nasty automated telemarketer somehow got hold of my number and I get incessant calls .. sometimes upto 8 times a day! Really frustrating.

[chimp]

Is there a way to change phone numbers and transfer remaining balance? A nasty automated telemarketer somehow got hold of my number and I get incessant calls .. sometimes upto 8 times a day! Really frustrating.

You can call 611 and have them changed the number and the balance can be kept. I asked them before and they said it is not an issue(say if I have moved to another city), but for the same area code, they may ask more questions as they don't want you to pick numbers.

[bylo]

but for the same area code, they may ask more questions as they don't want you to pick numbers.
As long as you're changing exchanges within an area code, e.g. 519 iii 1234 (say in London, ON) to 519 jjj 9876 (say in K-W), you can make the perfectly valid argument that with jjj fewer of the people who call you will incur LD charges at their end.

[randomkidx]

Hey guys is it possible to get a text only plan with speakout? Any details would be appreciated.

[M-e-X-x]

Hey guys is it possible to get a text only plan with speakout? Any details would be appreciated.

Yes, $10/month for 2500 messages. Then there's the $1.25/month 911 fee which is unavoidable.

[immortal_kssss]

I have a question, I already have 7/11 sim card,and I looked into their website for call forward,but I couldn't find anything about if it's available and if it's free or I have to pay for each transfered phone call?

[bylo]

Call forwarding isn't available with SpeakOut (or Petro Canada Mobility.)

[qmark]

Question: May I use an new rogers SIM card(not activated) on 7/11 speakout plan? Thanks!

[Andro]

Question: May I use an new rogers SIM card(not activated) on 7/11 speakout plan? Thanks!

Speakout requires it's own "Speakout" SIM just like any other carrier. You can use Rogers cell phones with Speakout though, no unlocking required.

[kev604]

Noob question. If I switch over to Speakout can I port my number:?: It doesn't say anywhere on the website.

[bylo]

Noob question. If I switch over to Speakout can I port my number?Yes, you can.


It doesn't say anywhere on the website.Yes, it does. Right in the FAQ (http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/support/faq).

[mikka1989]

how easy or hard is it to 'cut' the sim to microSim size for the iphone4? i don't wanna screw it up! thanks

is there a websiteURL of a cutout i can trace over?

[Andro]

how easy or hard is it to 'cut' the sim to microSim size for the iphone4? i don't wanna screw it up! thanks

is there a websiteURL of a cutout i can trace over?


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I25UlXjpjK4

[bylo]

how easy or hard is it to 'cut' the sim to microSim size for the iphone4?
You need a relatively new SIM where the gold-plated pads are small enough to not get damaged. Yes you can DIY. You can also buy micro-SIM cutters at places like eBay that will make the job a lot easier/safer. I imagine you could also get your SIM cut at any phone shop that does unlocking.

[Dave98]

how easy or hard is it to 'cut' the sim to microSim size for the iphone4? i don't wanna screw it up! thanks

is there a websiteURL of a cutout i can trace over?


[vid=youtube;I25UlXjpjK4]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I25UlXjpjK4[/video]

Not that the youtube clip is bad advice but I wouldn't follow it 100% because the gold plate on the SpeakOut SIM is smaller than the one in the video.

http://i44.tinypic.com/rvdgzl.jpg

So you have to make sure the right side of the SIM isn't cut as close to the gold plate as it is in the video.

Otherwise, it's a fairly simple process. I suggest maybe cutting a little wider at first and then make adjustments as you go along so that the gold plate is fairly centered in the SIM tray.

[bylo]

Google is your friend: How to make your own iPad/iPhone micro SIM (http://www.touchuserguide.com/2010/04/05/how-to-make-your-own-ipad-micro-sim/)

http://www.touchuserguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/step.02-420-90.jpg

[chimp]

a clipper on ebay is less than 5 bucks.

[Jimboski]

TL;DR If I buy a Speakout Wireless prepaid card @ 7/11 I can use It with my Rogers locked phone right? (Does any Rogers SIM card laying around work?)

[Andro]

TL;DR If I buy a Speakout Wireless prepaid card @ 7/11 I can use It with my Rogers locked phone right? (Does any Rogers SIM card laying around work?)

Rogers SIM cards do not work with Speakout. Rogers locked phones do work with Speakout.

[Jimboski]

Rogers SIM cards do not work with Speakout. Rogers locked phones do work with Speakout.

Ahh I see, So In order to get this Rogers locked phone to work with speakout buying via 7/11 Is to get a SIM card and the Prepaid card from them correct?

Thanks btw!

[Andro]

Ahh I see, So In order to get this Rogers locked phone to work with speakout buying via 7/11 Is to get a SIM card and the Prepaid card from them correct?

Thanks btw!

Yep, that is how it works.

Btw you can probably still take advantage of their offer and get $100 prepaid card with $25 bonus when you top it up + free Nokia phone, which will come with SIM and $5 air time on top:

http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/promotions/free-speakout-phone

[Jimboski]

yep, that is how it works.

No problem.

thanked.

[Jimboski]

Yep, that is how it works.

Btw you can probably still take advantage of their offer and get $100 prepaid card with $25 bonus when you top it up + free Nokia phone, which will come with SIM and $5 air time on top:

http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/promotions/free-speakout-phone

Pretty good deal but I have a old phone that can just use the prepaid credit already :)!

[Andro]

Pretty good deal but I have a old phone that can just use the prepaid credit already :)!

The way I see it, you will get $25 additional credit + get sim ($10) + $5 additional credit + sell that Nokia phone for $20-$30. Still awesome deal even in your case.

After all said and done you would get additional $60-70 on the $100 you spent.

[Jimboski]

The way I see it, you will get $25 additional credit + get sim ($10) + $5 additional credit + sell that Nokia phone for $20-$30. Still awesome deal even in your case.

After all said and done you would get additional $60-70 on the $100 you spent.

Yeah I guess but Is It worth the hassle!?

I mean I would but I'm not sure yet.. The deal Is still going on till Dec 31st so I have time!

[chimp]

Yeah I guess but Is It worth the hassle!?

I mean I would but I'm not sure yet.. The deal Is still going on till Dec 31st so I have time!

get the voucher, refill your existing #. Leave the free phone + SIM alone and sell it later or on ebay. You may not fetch much but what else you can ask for something that is already free ?

[firetree]

It's probably answered somewhere in thread,but what i like to know is i just bought an android phone on boxing day. Can i unlock it and use the $10 speakout for unlimited data without purchasing the voice plan?
Also my friend has an iphone with a contract with Fido,can he cancel the contract,pay the fee,unlock the phone and go with speakout?? Coz he's paying around $100/month.

[mikka1989]

gonna try this template to cut the SO sim


http://www.thechinacellphone.com/micro_sim_template.pdf

[nu-eh?]

It's probably answered somewhere in thread,but what i like to know is i just bought an android phone on boxing day. Can i unlock it and use the $10 speakout for unlimited data without purchasing the voice plan?
Also my friend has an iphone with a contract with Fido,can he cancel the contract,pay the fee,unlock the phone and go with speakout?? Coz he's paying around $100/month.
Yes to the first question, UMB cost $10.00/month plus another $1.25 for 911 which is unavoidable.

Find out first if your friend's iPhone can be unlocked by Fido if paid in full or if baseband is unlockable by other means before going with the SO. Cost to cancel might be too prohibitive, just saying.

[sonajatt]

- so 55 long distance US/Canada minutes?
Does this mean the 55 minutes will include:
-meaning you will get local GTA number and if you make or receive calls (receive or make calls to Canada or US while roaming in USA) it will be 55 minutes total, so roughly 50cents per minute.?

[bylo]

UMB cost $10.00/month plus another $1.25 for 911 which is unavoidable.
If you buy $100 air time before year end you get a 25% bonus (plus free low-end phone/SIM) so your $125 of airtime lasts almost a year (based on $125/$11.25.) That said, since you have to pay the $1.25/month even if you just use the phone for voice calls or text, it's not fair to allocate it all against UMB.

IMO the big risk in getting a $100 voucher now is that UMB abusers force SO to tighten up UMB (2G/EDGE, port 80 only, etc.) in the next few months so as to make it mostly useless with a smartphone. If that happens you don't want to be stuck with a large airtime balance that you can't transfer elsewhere.

[Master]

I agree with Bylo. I have a strong feeling that the UMB will be cancelled by Jan 2012 once the promotion is over. The key is to lure people into SO with the promotion. Lots of money will be locked in SO. It's a smart business plan.

We all know that when a deal hits RFD, it will be over before you know it!

[mikka1989]

good thing SO doesn't use IMEI filtering to weed out the iphone4's using UMB etc :D , or just not yet :confused:

sooner or later ...

[nu-eh?]

If you buy $100 air time before year end you get a 25% bonus (plus free low-end phone/SIM) so your $125 of airtime lasts almost a year (based on $125/$11.25.) That said, since you have to pay the $1.25/month even if you just use the phone for voice calls or text, it's not fair to allocate it all against UMB.

IMO the big risk in getting a $100 voucher now is that UMB abusers force SO to tighten up UMB (2G/EDGE, port 80 only, etc.) in the next few months so as to make it mostly useless with a smartphone. If that happens you don't want to be stuck with a large airtime balance that you can't transfer elsewhere.
I was just replying to the poster and I agree with everything else you said. Hopefully we have sensible users not abuse the UMB plan.

[Kurtz7834]

I agree with Bylo. I have a strong feeling that the UMB will be cancelled by Jan 2012 once the promotion is over. The key is to lure people into SO with the promotion. Lots of money will be locked in SO. It's a smart business plan.

We all know that when a deal hits RFD, it will be over before you know it!

I don't think UMB will be canceled, but probably throttled, ports blocked and / or with a bandwidth cap.

I don't think the people at the top are that smart and cunning for a bait and switch.

It's more likely that there is going to be massive abuse of bandwidth and Rogers will come down hard on SO and they'll be forced to throttle it.

Those are abusing the 7-11 unlimited *browsing* have themselves to blame for this, you know who you are.

[chimp]

Personally, I prefer them to revert back to the UMB it was designed for and give me another option of EDGE only option for 5/month.

The old UMB works exceptionally well for iPhone sans VOIP and the like whereas I want a 5 bucks option for my messaging need(yes, I am cheap).

[Jimboski]

I have a question regarding 711 Speakout..

I'm looking at the Value Plans (http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/rates-add-ons) and It says;

$30 - 100 Minutes + Unlimited Browsing & Texting - Would this be the fee I would be paying every month? Because I know Texting and Data/Browsing are $10 each.

As for the minutes, Can I just buy like 100 minutes and reload It when I want too?

What I want Is to get the Value Plan of $30 then the next couple of months I just pay $20/Month for Browsing & Texting then for the minutes as I run out I just want to reload more, I can do that right?

Thanks In advance!

[aasoror]

What I want Is to get the Value Plan of $30 then the next couple of months I just pay $20/Month for Browsing & Texting then for the minutes as I run out I just want to reload more, I can do that right?

Thanks In advance!

Do you mean signup for text $10 and signup for browsing $10 then pay as you for the minutes ? you can certainly do that.

[Jimboski]

Do you mean signup for text $10 and signup for browsing $10 then pay as you for the minutes ? you can certainly do that.

Yes, Have the texting & browsing applied every month for $20 total, Then the minutes I can reload another time whenever I need It.

Alright Thanks!

[chimp]

I have a question regarding 711 Speakout..

I'm looking at the Value Plans (http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/rates-add-ons) and It says;

$30 - 100 Minutes + Unlimited Browsing & Texting - Would this be the fee I would be paying every month? Because I know Texting and Data/Browsing are $10 each.

As for the minutes, Can I just buy like 100 minutes and reload It when I want too?

What I want Is to get the Value Plan of $30 then the next couple of months I just pay $20/Month for Browsing & Texting then for the minutes as I run out I just want to reload more, I can do that right?

Thanks In advance!

noop. 30/month.

If you don't use that many minutes, just pay the 10 for UMB and 10 for 2500 SMS, and 25c/min for whatever minutes you use.

[Jimboski]

noop. 30/month.

If you don't use that many minutes, just pay the 10 for UMB and 10 for 2500 SMS, and 25c/min for whatever minutes you use.

Oh so I can just buy a $25 - 100 minutes for 25c/minute card and load It In my SIM or whatever right?

Then just have the UMB and Texting applied every month for $20, Then when the minutes are running out I can just reload right?

or

Is It just $10 for UMB and $10 for Texting totaling to $20 then how many minutes I use they will just charge 25c/each minute talked?

[chimp]

Oh so I can just buy a $25 - 100 minutes for 25c/minute card and load It In my SIM or whatever right?

Then just have the UMB and Texting applied every month for $20, Then when the minutes are running out I can just reload right?

or

Is It just $10 for UMB and $10 for Texting totaling to $20 then how many minutes I use they will just charge 25c/each minute talked?

Let's say you buy the 10/month UMB + 10/month 2500 SMS. They will deduct 20/month from your balance, whether you use or not.

Then if you make 2 calls, it would be 50c deducted from your balance. How much you put in is up to you.

The 30/month is just giving you a discount on the first 100 minutes(of each month) at the expense that even you don't use that, they will still take 30 from your balance each month.

[Jimboski]

Let's say you buy the 10/month UMB + 10/month 2500 SMS. They will deduct 20/month from your balance, whether you use or not.

Then if you make 2 calls, it would be 50c deducted from your balance. How much you put in is up to you.

The 30/month is just giving you a discount on the first 100 minutes(of each month) at the expense that even you don't use that, they will still take 30 from your balance each month.

Alright I understand now I think?

So I throw In $100 cash and they give me $100 credit, That $100 credit can be used for UMB/Texting for $20/MONTH, Then how many minutes I use they deduct 25c/MINUTE on the $100 credit I paid right?

I won't use 100 minutes a month so that $30 Value Plan Isn't worth It In my case.. So I just gotta go for default UMB&Texting for $20 and Pay as you go Minutes.

Also Is It true that you can change some setting so that your Android phone can access everything via 711 speakout unlimited browsing/internet service? If yes then that's the main reason why I'm going to switch to speakout.
http://forums.redflagdeals.com/speakout-data-android-calling-all-users-tips-tricks-1053209/

THANKS!

[chimp]

Alright I understand now I think?

So I throw In $100 cash and they give me $100 credit, That $100 credit can be used for UMB/Texting for $20/MONTH, Then how many minutes I use they deduct 25c/MINUTE on the $100 credit I paid right?

I won't use 100 minutes a month so that $30 Value Plan Isn't worth It In my case.. So I just gotta go for default UMB&Texting for $20 and Pay as you go Minutes.

Also Is It true that you can change some setting so that your Android phone can access everything via 711 speakout unlimited browsing/internet service? If yes then that's the main reason why I'm going to switch to speakout.
http://forums.redflagdeals.com/speakout-data-android-calling-all-users-tips-tricks-1053209/

THANKS!

yup. you get it 100% correct.

EDIT:
that compares favorably with any bargain you can get from those so called 'retention' department :-)

[Jimboski]

yup. you get it 100% correct.

EDIT:
that compares favorably with any bargain you can get from those so called 'retention' department :-)

Yup, It's Rogers' line too, Very cheap and no contract needed!

!

[RawkHawk]

So if I'm reading all this right I could buy an unlocked iPhone 4s, buy a sim card, cut it to fit and get unlimited text and data for like $30/month?

[Jimboski]

So if I'm reading all this right I could buy an unlocked iPhone 4s, buy a sim card, cut it to fit and get unlimited text and data for like $30/month?

iPhones aren't Android phones.

[RawkHawk]

iPhones aren't Android phones.

Oh, thought the OP mentioned using an iPhone.

[chimp]

iPhones aren't Android phones.

But it still works. In fact, more iPhone apps work with the UMB(in its limited form).

[Jimboski]

But it still works. In fact, more iPhone apps work with the UMB(in its limited form).

I see, Everyone keep this on the low down LOL.

[aasoror]

I see, Everyone keep this on the low down LOL.

Says the guy who just linked to "the thread" couple of posts above ;)

[slowtyper]

Anyone want to buy sim with $70 credit in Toronto?

[Jimboski]

Anyone want to buy sim with $70 credit in Toronto?

How much?

[Jimboski]

How's speakout been for people?

I'm looking to just get the Texting + UMB plan for $20/month then 25c on top of how many minutes I use. It should be reliable as It's just 711 selling Rogers service for cheaper right?

Might get a Rogers locked phone and use It for this!

[bridonca]

How's speakout been for people?

I'm looking to just get the Texting + UMB plan for $20/month then 25c on top of how many minutes I use. It should be reliable as It's just 711 selling Rogers service for cheaper right?

Might get a Rogers locked phone and use It for this!

That is what I do. I use google voice for my texting purposes though, it is worth the hassle to act like I live in America to get a google voice account, if only to save $10 a month on texting fees.

[l69norm]

There's an app called textme that assigns a cdn phone number for texting. Its available for iPhone, android and wp7

You send txt from the app and it appears to be coming from your assigned number. Anyone can just txt you back at that number and it appears in the app

[firetree]

Does anyone know how to get the $10 UMB and be able to get free outgoing and incoming calls? I looked at Skype ,but i believe you need to pay $10/month to get a number that can be forwarded to your Skype account.

[bylo]

Google Voice with the GrooVe IP app ($5 one-time) will do that, however, you'll need to find a way to get a GV number from Canada. You'll need to fool GV into thinking you're in the US in order to open the GV account and get a US number. Ironically Google search is your friend ;)

[Andro]

There's an app called textme that assigns a cdn phone number for texting. Its available for iPhone, android and wp7

You send txt from the app and it appears to be coming from your assigned number. Anyone can just txt you back at that number and it appears in the app

Thanked, app works quite nicely on Android (Samsung Gio).

[Jimboski]

That is what I do. I use google voice for my texting purposes though, it is worth the hassle to act like I live in America to get a google voice account, if only to save $10 a month on texting fees.

So basically what you're saying Is that I can get the $10 UMB only and basically use an app that gives me text and save $10/month?

[bridonca]

So basically what you're saying Is that I can get the $10 UMB only and basically use an app that gives me text and save $10/month?

Yes. I cannot vouch for the other apps, but with google voice, you can also use a web page on your phone's browser to send texts if there is no app for your particular phone. Incoming messages on your Speakout account are free, if that is useful to you.

[Andro]

So basically what you're saying Is that I can get the $10 UMB only and basically use an app that gives me text and save $10/month?

Yes, I am doing this right now with textme. UMB gives you internet and textme can be used with either internet or Wi-Fi.

[Major_Malfunction]

I bought sims and set my daughters up on the $30 100 mins unlimited text and browsing plan

Service is working great on thier iPhones

However one thing we didn't find out until after we signed up is 7/11 doesn't support MMS

Have tried searching and can't find anyway to get MMS working on SO with the iPhone

So if MMS is important to you I don't recommend this service

However if you can live without MMS I highly recommend this service

[rivet]

How is textme compare to the textplus app, can it send text to people using SO or petro canada mobility? Textplus only support bigger carriers.

[Andro]

How is textme compare to the textplus app, can it send text to people using SO or petro canada mobility? Textplus only support bigger carriers.

Tested textme today. It sends texts to Rogers, Fido, Speakout phones with no problems at all. It seems like it can probably send texts to any carrier. I have no experience with textplus.

[Jimboski]

Yes. I cannot vouch for the other apps, but with google voice, you can also use a web page on your phone's browser to send texts if there is no app for your particular phone. Incoming messages on your Speakout account are free, if that is useful to you.

Yup comes with Caller ID and all those other bonuses including Free Incoming texts.


Yes, I am doing this right now with textme. UMB gives you internet and textme can be used with either internet or Wi-Fi.

Thank you both will check It out when I get my secondary phone ready!

Seems like such a sick deal considering you pay $10 for UMB and can text with the UMB!

I see that you guys listed some apps that can text via wifi/internet; I'll check that out when I actually get my prepaid phone ready!

[chimp]

I use GV rather than those other apps is I fail to see their business model and worry that people I text to may get hit by spam. SMS is not free so how else do they make money ?

[Dave98]

I use GV rather than those other apps is I fail to see their business model and worry that people I text to may get hit by spam. SMS is not free so how else do they make money ?

Free texting apps are usually supported by the ads they display. They also have some dubious privacy policies which typically state somethings along the lines of storing a bunch of your info and including all text messages. Although if you don't care about that then it's not an issue.

[chimp]

Free texting apps are usually supported by the ads they display. They also have some dubious privacy policies which typically state somethings along the lines of storing a bunch of your info and including all text messages. Although if you don't care about that then it's not an issue.

thanks. in general i would not treat sms as highly sensitive message channel, but spam is a concern especially certain type of message is not free even for the receiving side(for example windows live's sms mail alert service).

[firetree]

Google Voice with the GrooVe IP app ($5 one-time) will do that, however, you'll need to find a way to get a GV number from Canada. You'll need to fool GV into thinking you're in the US in order to open the GV account and get a US number. Ironically Google search is your friend ;)

Read somewhere that u have to somehow get a number in Alberta with area code (403) in order to get around the restriction Google Voice have in Canada. I read too that they ran out of numbers,so i'm not sure if that method still works,but anyone have success recently to get Google Voice or Skype to work on their smartphone for a small fee?

[chimp]

Read somewhere that u have to somehow get a number in Alberta with area code (403) in order to get around the restriction Google Voice have in Canada. I read too that they ran out of numbers,so i'm not sure if that method still works,but anyone have success recently to get Google Voice or Skype to work on their smartphone for a small fee?

403 has long been blocked for registration and I was told recently that even forward no longer works.

I am using talkatone(on iPhone) which can still works with GV for both voice(via data) and sms. The native GV apps also works(but sms only). And all done in canada.

[Corleone187]

i got a NY GV # by simply using a VPN.

I dont have it anymore though cause google said i wasn't using the # enough and took i away. :(

[DGirl]

403 has not been blocked for registration

Actually tried to register my 403 today as my GV forwarding number and was unsuccessful.
"Country of the new forwarding phone does not match the existing ones."

Congrats to those who got in under the wire.
For the rest of us... well we had a few years - back to the drawing board.

[chimp]

Actually tried to register my 403 today as my GV forwarding number and was unsuccessful.
"Country of the new forwarding phone does not match the existing ones."

Congrats to those who got in under the wire.
For the rest of us... well we had a few years - back to the drawing board.

ah, didn't know what I was typing(must visit the doctor soon), meant to say '403 has LONG been blocked for registration'.

[firetree]

403 has long been blocked for registration and I was told recently that even forward no longer works.

I am using talkatone(on iPhone) which can still works with GV for both voice(via data) and sms. The native GV apps also works(but sms only). And all done in canada.

Thanks Chimp! Wonder if the reception is good? Any lag?

[bylo]

403 has long been blocked for registration and I was told recently that even forward no longer works.
Correct. I have a 403 number that's associated with my phone via GV. Although that continues to work I can no longer change any GV related settings because they now consider it to be a Canadian number. Similar message to the other poster's "Country of the new forwarding phone does not match the existing ones."

I recall in the early days of GV (and Grand Central before it) there was a way to get a US number and account using a VoIP provider. I don't recall the details. That's what I was alluding to when I suggested using Google Search to look for ways to hack your way to a GV number.

[chimp]

Thanks Chimp! Wonder if the reception is good? Any lag?

reception is only related to the mobile data provider. I use voip.ms(SIP) and talkatone and both can lag or have skip problems. That is the nature of VOIP unfortunately(lots of factor affecting it).

Basically VOIP(be it GV or Skype or SIP) is ok for general use but I always use real PSTN for critical calls.

[slowtyper]

How much?

How about $65 for SIM card+$70 credit+UMB and some minutes left for the rest of this month.

[Kurtz7834]

Quick question about the Speakout branded phones - will they work with Rogers service without being unlocked? Thanks.

[FunSave22]

Quick question about the Speakout branded phones - will they work with Rogers service without being unlocked? Thanks.
Yes. If they are locked (which they aren't always) they are locked to Rogers.

[animatic]

Would I be able to buy the cheapest Nokia through the website, then take the SIM out of it and activate with my unlocked iPhone?
(Keeping the Nokia as a backup I guess)

[rocke]

Would I be able to buy the cheapest Nokia through the website, then take the SIM out of it and activate with my unlocked iPhone?
(Keeping the Nokia as a backup I guess)

Yes. Its cheaper to buy the sim card for 10 bucks.

[FunSave22]

Don't some iPhones use micro SIMs?

If yours does, I believe you'll need to cut the SIM down to size. I've never done it myself, but I believe there are plenty of websites with instructions on how to do it.

[bylo]

Don't some iPhones use micro SIMs? Yes, (except for CDMA-only models that have no SIM at all.)


If yours does, I believe you'll need to cut the SIM down to size. I've never done it myself, but I believe there are plenty of websites with instructions on how to do it.Yes. Google is your friend. So is RFD Forum Search.

[chimp]

buy a clipper on ebay, easiest to make microSIM and it is not expensive.

[Jimboski]

Even though I know there are tutorials on how to make a microSIM but does the new iPhone 4S require a regular sim or microSIM card?

[bylo]

Is it really that hard? http://www.google.ca/search?q=iphone+4s+sim+size

It's actually fewer keystrokes than posting the question on RFD.

[robertla]

http://forums.redflagdeals.com/archive/index.php/t-1127266.html the wind deal beats this deal by far

[chimp]

http://forums.redflagdeals.com/archive/index.php/t-1127266.html the wind deal beats this deal by far

depends on your need. If you need data(even assume UMB is limited form of 80/443 only), SO is a much better option than Wind. If you are looking for voice/sms service, Wind is much better. Wind to me is a CityFido like service but at a siginficantly lower cost.

I have mentioned on that thread that I would get a cheap C414 on wind to have almost free voice service then an iPhone on SO(just for the data).

[bylo]

http://forums.redflagdeals.com/archive/index.php/t-1127266.html the wind deal beats this deal by far
How?

From your thread:

How does this compare to 711's speakout?
Unlimited incoming is the only good thing about this deal (though it is a BIG advantage). Speakout wins in other departments, like coverage (Rogers coverage and signal is very good). In lecture at St George campus, I got full bars with Speakout while my friend with Wind got absolutely no signal. Top ups last longer, texts are a bit cheaper, and best of all, you get the $10/month unlimited browsing deal which is very useful if you use a smart phone.

Both have their merits, it really depends on your uses.
In addition Wind charges extra for features like VoiceMail that are included in SpeakOut. With the sole advantage of free incoming—IFF you use it a lot—I don't see any area where Wind is better.

[Dave98]

I agree it depends on usage. I used to use SpeakOut and now I'm currently giving Wind a try.


Top up length -
with online top up, I don't see this as an issue. If you're paying $10/month on SO for UMB then you likely won't be buying the small top ups anyway. If you're a voice/text user and pay the $40/180day top up amount on Wind, you really only end up paying $80/year in top ups.

Texting -
if you're a light texter then SOs rates are cheaper but texting addon on Wind is much cheaper
Speakout ($0.10/outgoing text - or - $10/month 2500 outgoing texts)
Wind ($0.15/outgoing text - or - $5/month "unlimited" texts)

Voice -
Speakout ($0.25/min incoming and outgoing) - Local rates only - Add an additional $0.20/min for LD
Wind (Free incoming - $0.20 outgoing) - $0.20/min is for all of Canada/US

MMS
Speakout - No MMS support
Wind - $1 per MMS

Data
Speakout - $10 Unlimited browsing - Some have said it works with most apps. It didn't for me (mainly browsing only) on my iPhone4 but this was maybe 10-12 months ago.
Wind - $0.10 per 25kb - or - $5/month for a "social data" addons or an unlimited BBM package if you have a Blackberry

$1.25/month 911 fee on SO
No such fee on Wind

+ Possible roaming costs on Wind

I personally don't see a need for voicemail and never have, so again, it depends on personal usage. It's only free on SO if you check them from a landline and not on your SO phone itself, otherwise airtime rates apply.

You also have to factor in the cost of an AWS phone for Wind/Mobilicity compatibility. Not that it negates the cost of a phone for speakout but regular GSM/Rogers compatible phones are easier to find.


So really.. SO is a clear winner for coverage and data but it's debatable for almost everything else IMO.

[petert]

I agree it depends on usage. I used to use SpeakOut and now I'm currently giving Wind a try.


Top up length -
with online top up, I don't see this as an issue. If you're paying $10/month on SO for UMB then you likely won't be buying the small top ups anyway. If you're a voice/text user and pay the $40/180day top up amount on Wind, you really only end up paying $80/year in top ups.

Texting -
if you're a light texter then SOs rates are cheaper but texting addon on Wind is much cheaper
Speakout ($0.10/outgoing text - or - $10/month 2500 outgoing texts)
Wind ($0.15/outgoing text - or - $5/month "unlimited" texts)

Voice -
Speakout ($0.25/min incoming and outgoing) - Local rates only - Add an additional $0.20/min for LD
Wind (Free incoming - $0.20 outgoing) - $0.20/min is for all of Canada/US

MMS
Speakout - No MMS support
Wind - $1 per MMS

Data
Speakout - $10 Unlimited browsing - Some have said it works with most apps. It didn't for me (mainly browsing only) on my iPhone4 but this was maybe 10-12 months ago.
Wind - $0.10 per 25kb - or - $5/month for a "social data" addons or an unlimited BBM package if you have a Blackberry

$1.25/month 911 fee on SO
No such fee on Wind

+ Possible roaming costs on Wind

I personally don't see a need for voicemail and never have, so again, it depends on personal usage. It's only free on SO if you check them from a landline and not on your SO phone itself, otherwise airtime rates apply.

You also have to factor in the cost of an AWS phone for Wind/Mobilicity compatibility. Not that it negates the cost of a phone for speakout but regular GSM/Rogers compatible phones are easier to find.


So really.. SO is a clear winner for coverage and data but it's debatable for almost everything else IMO.


http://www.pictureshack.us/images/3298071.jpg (http://www.pictureshack.us/)

20 cents every 6 minutes

_http://www2.windmobile.ca/en/Pages/Pay-Your-Way-Prepaid-Cell-Phone-Service.aspx

[Sepharite]

Wind may be okay, but it depends on your area. The signal may be terrible, and non-existent.

SO has by far been the best phone carrier I've had. I talk to my friends about their phone bills, and they pay $60 a month just for texting. They have barely any data, and they don't call.

I tell them my plan, and they **** their pants, wondering if I'm SO is fake. I tell them, remind me next time when you're changing your plan. 3 years from now.... sad.

[chimp]

I tell them, remind me next time when you're changing your plan. 3 years from now.... sad.

But they have a retention service where they can get plans no one on the street can get and upgrade to new phone like 4s ;-)

[bylo]

Yabbut after spending $60 x 36 months = $2,160 only a "free" iPhone just adds insult to injury.

[chimp]

Yabbut after spending $60 x 36 months = $2,160 only a "free" iPhone just adds insult to injury.

you should tell those on the rention threads on RFD :lol:

seriously though, it is not a bad option if people really want a brand new 4s and don't want to pay upfront. It is usually amortized to about 18-20 dollars a month so they are paying 30 bucks for voice + data. For those who don't want the hassle of absolutely lowest cost, not too bad.

[Jimboski]

you should tell those on the rention threads on RFD :lol:

seriously though, it is not a bad option if people really want a brand new 4s and don't want to pay upfront. It is usually amortized to about 18-20 dollars a month so they are paying 30 bucks for voice + data. For those who don't want the hassle of absolutely lowest cost, not too bad.

Yup, It's much much better If you have a good plan that you want and are willing to pay for monthly.. That way the phone Is discounted a high amount!

[JustBob]

Is this the best option for very low usage? I'm currently with Koodo (50/50 plan, $17/month) but I barely use my phone, i.e. a couple of calls/text messages per month, if even that. Some months I have no usage at all...

Is it possible to get a SIM card and a 514 number in Montreal since we don't have 7/11 here???

[Jimboski]

Is this the best option for very low usage? I'm currently with Koodo (50/50 plan, $17/month) but I barely use my phone, i.e. a couple of calls/text messages per month, if even that. Some months I have no usage at all...

Is it possible to get a SIM card and a 514 number in Montreal since we don't have 7/11 here???

It's 25c/minute and 10c/text (Outgoing texts only) since Incoming texts are free IIRC. Other then that you would be charged $1.25 monthly If you don't use anything at all!

As for your second question, Not to sure..

[crazycoward]

you should tell those on the rention threads on RFD :lol:

seriously though, it is not a bad option if people really want a brand new 4s and don't want to pay upfront. It is usually amortized to about 18-20 dollars a month so they are paying 30 bucks for voice + data. For those who don't want the hassle of absolutely lowest cost, not too bad.

New fido and rogers retention plans suck. You used to be able to get an iphone with a voice and data plan under $30 and now it's a minimum $50 plan.

$17.50 unlimited talk text data with mobilicity vs $50+ plan with rogers or fido... Thats a big difference. (granted if reception sucks in your area there's no point in switching)

[Jimboski]

New fido and rogers retention plans suck. You used to be able to get an iphone with a voice and data plan under $30 and now it's a minimum $50 plan.

$17.50 unlimited talk text data with mobilicity vs $50+ plan with rogers or fido... Thats a big difference. (granted if reception sucks in your area there's no point in switching)

Some CSR says that you just need a data plan and VP that equals to $40/month, Some say otherwise and say you need a minimum of $25 data..

YMMV, Gotta get the right csr!

[bridonca]

Is this the best option for very low usage? I'm currently with Koodo (50/50 plan, $17/month) but I barely use my phone, i.e. a couple of calls/text messages per month, if even that. Some months I have no usage at all...

Is it possible to get a SIM card and a 514 number in Montreal since we don't have 7/11 here???

Speakout is the best plan for people that rarely use their phone. You only need $25 airtime, which can last a year, And a $10 Speakout SIM card. If you do not have a compatible phone, you have get a Speakout phone for as low as $39, which comes with a SIM and $5 airtime. You get charged $1.25 a month, as already said.
http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/

Quebec is a bit of an issue, because the Speakout web site is unable to process credit cards from Quebec for some reason.
If you have a friend near a 7-Eleven, preferably in Alberta because of the low sales tax, get them to buy and mail you a $10 Speakout SIM card and $25 airtime.

You can get a Montreal number, but there are no guarantees it will be a 514 number. You do not even have a choice of number other than it should work in the city you selected. However, you can port your Koodo number to Speakout for free.

[bylo]

Quebec is a bit of an issue, because the Speakout web site is unable to process credit cards from Quebec for some reason.That can't be the issue because PCM (http://mobility.petro-canada.ca/en/locations/139.aspx) (also Ztar) accepts online orders from QC. PCM may be an option for some because they have stations in QC. They're a bit more expensive ($15 for the SIM, $25 airtime lasts only 90 days) than SO however.


If you have a friend near a 7-Eleven, preferably in Alberta because of the low sales tax, get them to buy and mail you a $10 Speakout SIM card and $25 airtime.You could also order online from QC, put AB in the province field then put something like "Montreal - QC" in the city field and your actual postal code in that field. I haven't tried it so it might fail the credit card or INTERAC address validation.

[chimp]

New fido and rogers retention plans suck. You used to be able to get an iphone with a voice and data plan under $30 and now it's a minimum $50 plan.

$17.50 unlimited talk text data with mobilicity vs $50+ plan with rogers or fido... Thats a big difference. (granted if reception sucks in your area there's no point in switching)

Counting in the value of the 4s(50 - 18 = 32), it is still a difference but whether a worth paying one is a YMMV. new iPhone with plan under 30 ? When was it ? It means the service is < 10 bucks ? I have my doubt.

[Haz]

Counting in the value of the 4s(50 - 18 = 32), it is still a difference but whether a worth paying one is a YMMV. new iPhone with plan under 30 ? When was it ? It means the service is < 10 bucks ? I have my doubt.I remember those plans. Check out the Rogers retentions thread. There use to be some pretty epic plans with iPhones people were able to get but no more.

[chimp]

I remember those plans. Check out the Rogers retentions thread. There use to be some pretty epic plans with iPhones people were able to get but no more.

Too long a thread for me to check :-)

I haven't seen one service provider that would treat existing customer nicely(and that is not just a Canadian phenomina) so if throughout the time when the basic phone service was 20+(25+ most of the time), a < 10 monthly service for mobile is really unthinkable. May be we are looking at the number differently.

[JustBob]

Speakout is the best plan for people that rarely use their phone. You only need $25 airtime, which can last a year, And a $10 Speakout SIM card. If you do not have a compatible phone, you have get a Speakout phone for as low as $39, which comes with a SIM and $5 airtime. You get charged $1.25 a month, as already said.
http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/

Quebec is a bit of an issue, because the Speakout web site is unable to process credit cards from Quebec for some reason.
If you have a friend near a 7-Eleven, preferably in Alberta because of the low sales tax, get them to buy and mail you a $10 Speakout SIM card and $25 airtime.

You can get a Montreal number, but there are no guarantees it will be a 514 number. You do not even have a choice of number other than it should work in the city you selected. However, you can port your Koodo number to Speakout for free.

Thanks for the info. I know a couple of people in Toronto so I'll probably ask them.

What is a "compatible phone"? Will that work on my unlocked LG Optimus One?

[jackie999]

Thanks for the info. I know a couple of people in Toronto so I'll probably ask them.

What is a "compatible phone"? Will that work on my unlocked LG Optimus One?

I'm using my speakout 7-11 sim in my unlocked Samsung Galaxy Ace. The old koodo sim (which has a time left on it) is running in an old iphone 3g.

[FunSave22]

Will that work on my unlocked LG Optimus One?
Yes.

[bylo]

What is a "compatible phone"?
For voice and 2G data on the incumbent carriers (Bhell, Robbers/SpeakOut, Telus), any unlocked phone that can handle the GSM, 850/1900 MHz bands. For 3G data, the phone has to also support HSPA. For the new players like Wind and Mobilicity you'd need support for 1700 MHz.

[Mulder and Scully]

What is a "compatible phone"? Will that work on my unlocked LG Optimus One?

Speakout uses Rogers' network so any unlocked GSM phone will work. Locked Rogers/Fido/Chattr phones will also work.

When Speakout first came to market in Canada they sold unlocked Nokia phones, but in the past two years have moved to Rogers network locked phones.

[bylo]

Speakout uses Rogers' network so any unlocked GSM phone will work. Locked Rogers/Fido/Chattr phones will also work.
Are you sure about Fido and Chatr? While they're both owned by Robbers, my understanding is that phones locked to them won't work on SpeakOut.

[Clee]

Anyone can send me one?
I'm in Montreal and I don't have any friends in Toronto or Alberta to send me one :(

[chimp]

Anyone can send me one?
I'm in Montreal and I don't have any friends in Toronto or Alberta to send me one :(

One thing I am wondering is if SO doesn't do business in QC(i.e. you cannot order online to ship to you), will they allow you to get number in that province ? If not, do you intend for your friends(local) to call LD just to reach you ?

Of course if it is data that you are after, that would not be a problem. I have a set 1661+SIM(unactivated) if you are interested.

[JustBob]

I just talked to a CSR. As stated by those who responded here, if you are in Quebec, you can't buy the SIM card online ("we will not ship it to Quebec"). So you need to have someone who has access to a 7/11 buy one for you. After that, when you activate, you can get a Montreal (or Quebec area code) number or port your existing number (must be active) from your current provider.

Note that I first got some contradictory info. The first CSR I spoke to said I could buy the SIM card online. But the checkout process does not allow you to enter Quebec as a province. The 2nd CSR I spoke to confirmed that. I also read that at least one person was able to talk the CSR into mailing him a SIM card to Quebec. So I guess that's YMMV.

[sixshot28]

This Sim card thing seems amazing...
I'm with Telus as of till june and will be discounting with any other carrier as I've been following this thread and getting how it works...

Can some just let me If a Iphone 4G unlocked compatible with a speakout sim?

[Jermyzy]

MMS
Speakout - No MMS support
Wind - $1 per MMS


Can anybody confirm speakout does not support MMS??? I'm about to switch-over from Fido and would like to be able to send MMS!

[Sepharite]

Holy crappers. 800kb/s downloading speed.

This is faster than my Teksavvy DSL...

[Jimboski]

Holy crappers. 800kb/s downloading speed.

This is faster than my Teksavvy DSL...

Hahah nice, Looking to switch soon - Possibly.

[FunSave22]

Can some just let me If a Iphone 4G unlocked compatible with a speakout sim?
Yes it is, but you may need to convert the sim into a micro sim, if that's what your iPhone takes.

[bridonca]

Can anybody confirm speakout does not support MMS??? I'm about to switch-over from Fido and would like to be able to send MMS!

No MMS with Speakout, no short codes either. With the unlimited browsing option, I have been able to send emails with attachments, but your mileage may vary.

[tropics]

If you activate browsing, will be charged $10 each month from your $25 balance as well as a $1.25 system access fee. $11.25 a month. With $25 you can get 2 months of unlimited web browsing, with enough credit left over for 10 minutes of talking.

Your experience with speakout browsing has a lot to do with the phone, because speakout goes through a proxy. Aplle and Nokia phones do pretty good, Android phones need to be rooted and patched to do more that web browsing.

does anyone know if I can get the browsing feature with a blackberry bold 8900?

[Andro]

does anyone know if I can get the browsing feature with a blackberry bold 8900?

Can you get that feature with Rogers? if yes then i see no problem with Speakout.

[belfour]

There are a few left at Don Mills / Overlea location

[Jimboski]

I failed In cutting a regular SIM card Into a microSIM LOL..

[barto]

I failed In cutting a regular SIM card Into a microSIM LOL..

I found someone local through Kijiji offering that service for $2. Turned out to be a young girl (18-20-ish) who took my SIM, put a flyer down on the frozen ground, then something that looked like a stapler, then another flyer on top of that, and JUMPED ON IT. Done.

Not quite sure what I had expected, but it worked great... using an iPhone 4 now on Speakout! I'm ordering a SIM adapter tray so in an emergency I can switch the SIM back to a phone that takes a full-sized one.

So far very happy with the iPhone 4, and the browsing/Internet thing has been fun to play around with. Still got a problem trying to get tethering to work, though... :(

[Haz]

I found someone local through Kijiji offering that service for $2. Turned out to be a young girl (18-20-ish) who took my SIM, put a flyer down on the frozen ground, then something that looked like a stapler, then another flyer on top of that, and JUMPED ON IT. Done.

Not quite sure what I had expected, but it worked great... using an iPhone 4 now on Speakout! I'm ordering a SIM adapter tray so in an emergency I can switch the SIM back to a phone that takes a full-sized one.

So far very happy with the iPhone 4, and the browsing/Internet thing has been fun to play around with. Still got a problem trying to get tethering to work, though... :(

Those SIM cutters are cheap on eBay. I was lucky one of my co-workers have one so I just had him do it.

[barto]

This Sim card thing seems amazing...
I'm with Telus as of till june and will be discounting with any other carrier as I've been following this thread and getting how it works...

Can some just let me If a Iphone 4G unlocked compatible with a speakout sim?

I bought someone's jailbroken iPhone and reset it back to factory, so I guess it was locked to Rogers at that point, and it's working fine after having my old Speakout SIM card cut down to fit.

If the Telus phone would work on Rogers now that it's unlocked, then I would bet that it'll work on Speakout. Good luck, keep us posted!

[belfour]

I just cut the sim card by a pair of sharp scissors (very easy to do) .. and activated on my iphone 4 (ultrasnow unlocked). Works great!

[l69norm]

No MMS with Speakout, no short codes either. With the unlimited browsing option, I have been able to send emails with attachments, but your mileage may vary.

For those with UMB, the app called textme can be used to send and receive MMS to/from other cellphones as well as regular SMS

[Jimboski]

Alright anyone know a reliable tutorial to cutting a regular sim Into a MicroSIM?

Got me my 711 speakout sim as It has credit already and don't wanna destroy this like I did to the other.. Where I'd lose $50+ rather then $11 regular sim card..

[slowtyper]

I found someone local through Kijiji offering that service for $2. Turned out to be a young girl (18-20-ish) who took my SIM, put a flyer down on the frozen ground, then something that looked like a stapler, then another flyer on top of that, and JUMPED ON IT. Done.

This is hilarious. I'd pay $2 to see this and I don't even need a microsim.

[Jimboski]

This is hilarious. I'd pay $2 to see this and I don't even need a microsim.

Haha yeah imagining that I can tell It's funny lol.

[chimp]

Alright anyone know a reliable tutorial to cutting a regular sim Into a MicroSIM?

Got me my 711 speakout sim as It has credit already and don't wanna destroy this like I did to the other.. Where I'd lose $50+ rather then $11 regular sim card..

I would recommend NOT follow tutorials to do it(say DIY using paper cutter). For the reason that a clipper is so cheap and that using a clipper, you can keep the original size SIM in good shape and put the microSIM back into it and still use it in normal SIM slot. Try to do that with just the microSIM in say a Samsung Gio/Ace.

[Jimboski]

I would recommend NOT follow tutorials to do it(say DIY using paper cutter). For the reason that a clipper is so cheap and that using a clipper, you can keep the original size SIM in good shape and put the microSIM back into it and still use it in normal SIM slot. Try to do that with just the microSIM in say a Samsung Gio/Ace.

You mean that stapler microsim cutter thing right? Yeah I need to look for that as I don't trust cutting It!

Pretty sure PMALL has It right? Considering there are so many cellphone kiosks there!

[chimp]

You mean that stapler microsim cutter thing right? Yeah I need to look for that as I don't trust cutting It!

Pretty sure PMALL has It right? Considering there are so many cellphone kiosks there!

Yup. I bought it on ebay for 4 bucks or something, forgot. It comes with a microSIM to SIM holder but it is some silicone/rubber material that is useless for case like Gio/Ace where you need to slide the SIM in and why I recommend use the clipper.

[Jimboski]

Yup. I bought it on ebay for 4 bucks or something, forgot. It comes with a microSIM to SIM holder but it is some silicone/rubber material that is useless for case like Gio/Ace where you need to slide the SIM in and why I recommend use the clipper.

Ya I don't need the adapter only the cutter. Is the clipper/stapler thingy you're talking about the same thing? I'm kind confused.

[chimp]

Ya I don't need the adapter only the cutter. Is the clipper/stapler thingy you're talking about the same thing? I'm kind confused.

same thing, shaped like a paper hole puncher. Still needs a few practice in order to properly preserve the original SIM.

like this

http://www.ebay.ca/itm/Micro-SIM-Card-Cutter-2-Sim-Adapter-iPhone4-/290656752644?pt=US_Tablet_Accessories&hash=item43ac7e1404

[Jimboski]

same thing, shaped like a paper hole puncher. Still needs a few practice in order to properly preserve the original SIM.

like this

http://www.ebay.ca/itm/Micro-SIM-Card-Cutter-2-Sim-Adapter-iPhone4-/290656752644?pt=US_Tablet_Accessories&hash=item43ac7e1404

Ships from HK, That will be awhile If I do order It.. ****************! I DON'T NEED THE CUTTER BUT WOULD JUST NEED TO HAVE IT CUT!

[Jimboski]

Got me Sim card cut for $3 today.. Now I got everything ready but.. I need to figure out what good texting app I can use so I can text people without paying $10/monthly for texting, That's possible right?

Like use the UMB to text as all incoming texts are free!

EDIT : Installed TextPLUS I think what It's called and It says "Sorry, We cannot connect to the server. Please check your network connection and try again." - I tried turning off wifi and going 3G and vice versa, Still doesn't work; Help!?

[duckdown]

Got me Sim card cut for $3 today.. Now I got everything ready but.. I need to figure out what good texting app I can use so I can text people without paying $10/monthly for texting, That's possible right?

Like use the UMB to text as all incoming texts are free!

Check out TextPlus

Even lets you pick a city and will give you a free local phone number so people can text your TextPlus account # directly

[Jimboski]

Check out TextPlus

Even lets you pick a city and will give you a free local phone number so people can text your TextPlus account # directly

Yup.. It's not letting me register an account.. Says I can't connect to the server but It seems to be on their end? I seem to be downloading apps/surfing fine on the phone!

EDIT : Okay I had to use another phone to register the account.. Anyway how does this work. I can use Wifi/3G to send out texts and they text me back by the # the "TextPlus" app gives me or just regular calling #?

Thanks!

[Jimboski]

So.. I'm using TextPlus right now and all seems fine except that texts that are sent to my real # are going Into TextPlus which doesn't output any noise or notification that I've been texted and what not.. Although the other day the texts were going to my default message box, Is there a way to still do that?

Also for people who tested both TextPlus and TextMe, Which one Is better? TIA!

[sixshot28]

My contract is up with telus In june hehe I can't wait to grab a unlocked Iphone and not have to pay stupid contract fee's and be locked in!
very big savings in the long run...:razz:

[Jimboski]

My contract is up with telus In june hehe I can't wait to grab a unlocked Iphone and not have to pay stupid contract fee's and be locked in!
very big savings in the long run...:razz:

You don't need to wait for your contract to end to get a unlocked iPhone from the Apple Store to use with Telus.

or

Do you mean you're switching to month-month?

[Jermyzy]

What app are you guys using to send picture messages since MMS doesn't work?

[Jimboski]

What app are you guys using to send picture messages since MMS doesn't work?

I don't send pictures :-0!

[Jimboski]

Anyone here familiar with TextPlus?

For some reason all incoming texts aren't going to the TextPlus app but Is going to my default texting program thingy.. Is this how It's mean to work?

TIA!

[Clee]

There is another app called TextMe
They assign you a Canadian number also

[Jimboski]

There is another app called TextMe
They assign you a Canadian number also

The # that TextPlus provides you Is like a (289) area code.. What # does TextMe provide? Would you think TextMe Is a better application?

[dinglik]

How do i know what they are charging me for?

for example, i started with $50.....i activated UMB and sent 2 txt messages....balance is $38.55, is that correct?

[CheapBastard]

How do i know what they are charging me for?

for example, i started with $50.....i activated UMB and sent 2 txt messages....balance is $38.55, is that correct?

Sounds right: $10 for UMB, $1.25 for 911 charge, 10cents a text.

[SovereigN]

I'm having a browsing issue using the UMB, the images will always turn up blurry and low res when on 3g, but is perfectly fine over wifi. Anyone else get this issue?

[jobby]

I'm having a browsing issue using the UMB, the images will always turn up blurry and low res when on 3g, but is perfectly fine over wifi. Anyone else get this issue?

I have the same issue.

[armaan]

I trasnfer my number from Rogers to Speakout, purchased $10 simcard?

What is UMB and how does it work?

Thank you very much if someone can explaint!!

[springbok]

I'm having a browsing issue using the UMB, the images will always turn up blurry and low res when on 3g, but is perfectly fine over wifi. Anyone else get this issue?

remove the proxy settings. remove the ip address and port #.

[Jimboski]

I trasnfer my number from Rogers to Speakout, purchased $10 simcard?

What is UMB and how does it work?

Thank you very much if someone can explaint!!

UMB Is Unlimited Browsing - Let's you do all the basic stuff like Email, Surfing. No videos.

[Redfisher]

Youtube works fine on UMB.

[Jimboski]

Youtube works fine on UMB.

Did you have to do "that trick?".

[armaan]

UMB Is Unlimited Browsing - Let's you do all the basic stuff like Email, Surfing. No videos.

Thank You So Much,

Can i do Skype / netlalk or similar thing??

Thanks once again!

[Redfisher]

Did you have to do "that trick?".

Not sure what you mean? i just unlocked a pay as you go motorola phone and put in a 7/11 sim card and it worked great.

[rivet]

I think texplus assign you a number and your friends have to text that number and the text goes to the app. But you can text them at their regular number and they will see it as a regular SMS if they don't have textplus installed.


Anyone here familiar with TextPlus?

For some reason all incoming texts aren't going to the TextPlus app but Is going to my default texting program thingy.. Is this how It's mean to work?

TIA!

[uruha]

Question for those who bought the 39 dollars Nokia.. Where is the SIM card in the package? In the phone?

I told them to look for a credit-card-size card with a simcard on it.

I am trying to get them to mail me the sim card, but they can't seem to locate it in the package at all.

Does Speakout no longer include simcard with that phone purchase or did my parents happen to get a faulty package, which requires an exchange?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[Haz]

Question for those who bought the 39 dollars Nokia.. Where is the SIM card in the package? In the phone?

I told them to look for a credit-card-size card with a simcard on it.

I am trying to get them to mail me the sim card, but they can't seem to locate it in the package at all.

Does Speakout no longer include simcard with that phone purchase or did my parents happen to get a faulty package, which requires an exchange?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

It's in the phone.

[jackie999]

It's in the phone.

The first phone I bought didn't have a sim...I paid and then had the 7-11 clerk open the box to make sure it was all included ..and no sim! He exchanged with another that had the sim - but it wasn't in the phone..it was separate...

[Jimboski]

I think texplus assign you a number and your friends have to text that number and the text goes to the app. But you can text them at their regular number and they will see it as a regular SMS if they don't have textplus installed.

The # they assign you can't be texted or at least I won't receive It.

They have to text me at my regular number for me to receive It.. It's just some contacts/messages go to the default messages app and some goes to TextPlus app... It's annoying but yeah..

Wondering If you can make It all go to TextPlus app.

[Haz]

The first phone I bought didn't have a sim...I paid and then had the 7-11 clerk open the box to make sure it was all included ..and no sim! He exchanged with another that had the sim - but it wasn't in the phone..it was separate...

Curious. Mine was in the phone.

[goat]

Does anybody know how long it takes to arrive if I order one online?

[Hawkinomics]

I'm switching as soon as I get out of my Rogers contract. It looks like smartphones are good to go with the data package, correct?

[Sepharite]

I'm switching as soon as I get out of my Rogers contract. It looks like smartphones are good to go with the data package, correct?

Yes. I've used LG Chich, Samsung Galaxy S, and iPhone3G and all work no problem.

[Jimboski]

I'm switching as soon as I get out of my Rogers contract. It looks like smartphones are good to go with the data package, correct?

Not worth getting data If you don't have a smartphone TBH.

[JustBob]

Well, neither of my contacts in Toronto panned out so I've been unable to obtain that SIM card... So if anyone would be kind enough to purchase one for me and mail it to me (Montreal), I would surely appreciate it. I could pay you via Paypal. Send me a PM if interested. Thanks.

[Jimboski]

Well, neither of my contacts in Toronto panned out so I've been unable to obtain that SIM card... So if anyone would be kind enough to purchase one for me and mail it to me (Montreal), I would surely appreciate it. I could pay you via Paypal. Send me a PM if interested. Thanks.

TBH people would do It If you pay them extra! Because to buy It and package It and Ship It Is a hassle!

Closest 711 for me Is like 30 minute drive lol.

[JustBob]

Ok well assuming that someone goes by a 7/11 every day or has to make a trip to buy the SIM then it isn't a hassle. Or if someone buys one online, perhaps they could buy two, that also would not be a hassle. And putting a SIM card in an envelope and mailing it isn't a hassle either. If you are looking to profit, sell SIM cards on eBay. That's not what I asked. :)

[Asad_A203]

The # they assign you can't be texted or at least I won't receive It.

They have to text me at my regular number for me to receive It.. It's just some contacts/messages go to the default messages app and some goes to TextPlus app... It's annoying but yeah..

Wondering If you can make It all go to TextPlus app.

You are doing something wrong or you don't actually have a static TextPlus number (the static numbers are only provided on iOS devices, not Android; on Android you get a "shared" number that requires you to message the contact first and then your contact messages the number they receive and it goes to the app). If you don't have a static number, borrow an iPhone from someone and create a textplus account on there and then use those credentials on your Android phone (the static number carries over).

If you have a static number, textplus works exactly the same as a SMS service and your contacts can message your static number whenever they want and it will reach you.

[Jimboski]

You are doing something wrong or you don't actually have a static TextPlus number (the static numbers are only provided on iOS devices, not Android; on Android you get a "shared" number that requires you to message the contact first and then your contact messages the number they receive and it goes to the app). If you don't have a static number, borrow an iPhone from someone and create a textplus account on there and then use those credentials on your Android phone (the static number carries over).

If you have a static number, textplus works exactly the same as a SMS service and your contacts can message your static number whenever they want and it will reach you.

I have an iPhone and the # TextPlus assigned me Is a 289 area code. I asked all my buddies and they said that's the number they see also but to text me back Is at my real phone #.

[Pragmatic]

Moving back to speakout in a few months and I'm having a tough time deciding which unlocked phone to pick up.

I plan on using the data feature so can anyone suggest a phone for less than $250?

Thanks!

[Andro]

Moving back to speakout in a few months and I'm having a tough time deciding which unlocked phone to pick up.

I plan on using the data feature so can anyone suggest a phone for less than $250?

Thanks!

Samsung Gio from Bell prepaid. By far the best and least expensive option IMO. Usually can be found under $100. Can be easily unlocked by yourself in 10-15min, even if you have no experience in unlocking (I unlocked 3 of them, with no experience). I have data option on mine with Speakout, works flawlessly (Skype, Gmail, Textme, Google Maps, Navigation, Weather, Browser, etc...)

[bylo]

Samsung Gio from Bell prepaid.
+1 although surely there's something better if you're prepared to spend $250, e.g. to get a 4" higher-res screen or to get HSPA bands that work overseas.

But yeah, the Gio (or LG Optimus One) are good basic smartphones and SpeakOut $10 UMB is the best way to use them. (Even better if you can get a Google Voice number and GrooVe IP for free calling within North America. I now rarely use SO's own cellphone service so my monthly cost is $10 UMB plus $1.25 911.)

[uruha]

Curious. Mine was in the phone.

My parents found the sim in the phone as well. Won't know for sure until I get that in the mail though.. haha... giving instructions over the phone is a tedious process.. ;)

[Troy_McClure]

just curious, when activating a sim, why does it need an imei number?

[Jimboski]

just curious, when activating a sim, why does it need an imei number?

Maybe to see what phone It Is or maybe to see If It's compatible to be used with speakout.

[LanEvoVII]

just curious, when activating a sim, why does it need an imei number?

Probably will ask what your IMEI is if you port your number from speakout to another provider

[Troy_McClure]

Maybe to see what phone It Is or maybe to see If It's compatible to be used with speakout.

Ya i guess, don't all phones now work on gsm?


Probably will ask what your IMEI is if you port your number from speakout to another provider

what if you change phones and a year from now you want to port, should I keep the original imei that I registered with written down? I thought the pin number created when activating would serve as the security code when porting.

[Tender]

Ya i guess, don't all phones now work on gsm?



what if you change phones and a year from now you want to port, should I keep the original imei that I registered with written down? I thought the pin number created when activating would serve as the security code when porting.

When I switched my wife's phone to Mobilicity, I called SO customer service for the IMEI and they provided on the spot.

[Jimboski]

Phone Number top up will be activated upon purchase. If used for airtime only, it will expire 365 days from purchase date. See individual expiry dates when phone top up is used for value plans and/or add-ons.

$25 Account Top Up
$35 Account Top Up
$50 Account Top Up
$100 Account Top Up


I don't really get that.. Does that mean If I top up $25 It will extend my service life for another 365 days/1 year?

I only use the UMB feature and no minutes or texting feature.

[Troy_McClure]

When I switched my wife's phone to Mobilicity, I called SO customer service for the IMEI and they provided on the spot.

so when you ported from SO to Mobi, Mobi asked for the imei as a security measure right?

[aasoror]

just curious, when activating a sim, why does it need an imei number?

I think they only do this if you are using your own phone (i.e. buying just the SIM), its means nothing probably just a field the agent need to fill in their activation form.
If you got the SIM with a SO phone they wont ask you for any phone info (apparently it pops up on the system with they input the SIM info).

[jobby]

I don't really get that.. Does that mean If I top up $25 It will extend my service life for another 365 days/1 year?

I only use the UMB feature and no minutes or texting feature.

It will push the date till you need to retop your account by 1 year. But you may runout of $$$ before that. If you use only UMB, 25$ will last 2 months assuming you have 0 balance.

[Troy_McClure]

I think they only do this if you are using your own phone (i.e. buying just the SIM), its means nothing probably just a field the agent need to fill in their activation form.
If you got the SIM with a SO phone they wont ask you for any phone info (apparently it pops up on the system with they input the SIM info).

I see, so a sim comes with every phone right?

For the current $20 off phone promotion, can I buy 2x $25 vouchers or does it have to be a single $50 voucher?

[Jimboski]

It will push the date till you need to retop your account by 1 year. But you may runout of $$$ before that. If you use only UMB, 25$ will last 2 months assuming you have 0 balance.

So basically If I keep putting low amount of credit I would be good to go in terms of service life right?

Like let's say $40 for 4 months/$10 a month and rinse and repeat would extend back to 1 year every time right.

[EdLeafs]

Hey guys, I'm not sure if this has been asked but for the $10 browsing add on, it say on their site that it will only work with certain capable phones. Has anyone try with a smartphone or iphone? Does it work?

[Jimboski]

Hey guys, I'm not sure if this has been asked but for the $10 browsing add on, it say on their site that it will only work with certain capable phones. Has anyone try with a smartphone or iphone? Does it work?

I'm using a iPhone myself and It works as Intended, I'm pretty sure It works for ALL smartphones also.

IMO A UMB/Data plan would be useless If not used on a smartphone.

[EdLeafs]

I'm using a iPhone myself and It works as Intended, I'm pretty sure It works for ALL smartphones also.

IMO A UMB/Data plan would be useless If not used on a smartphone.

Yup. Thanks, Just want to make sure it's not blocked or banned since there was no mention about it.

[arsamore]

I am still on the fence about getting a sim. Honestly, I would most like to use it as a casual wifi hotspot with a Samsung Gio. I have no intention of overusing this service but it would be nice to be able to get my email, sync with dropbox and surf while on the train or out without wifi. Has anyone had success using the service in this capacity?

[aasoror]

I see, so a sim comes with every phone right?

For the current $20 off phone promotion, can I buy 2x $25 vouchers or does it have to be a single $50 voucher?

Yup every phone comes with a $10 SIM and $5 Credit :)
Nope you need to buy at least a single $50 voucher.

[dngo12]

I am leaving the country for a few weeks. Do you guys think the unlimited data will work overseas?(Asia)

[Jimboski]

I am leaving the country for a few weeks. Do you guys think the unlimited data will work overseas?(Asia)

I don't think It will work.. If It does then you'll be charged "roaming charges" I would think where It varies on what you do..

[dngo12]

I don't think It will work.. If It does then you'll be charged "roaming charges" I would think where It varies on what you do..

Ah okay.

People with iPhones, have you gotten iMessage and Facetime to activate? I heard it was because Apple sends out a short code to activate and Speakout doesn't send short codes.
I sent a message to Speakout on their site about turning on short code for me temporarily so I can get it activated. Not sure if they can do that but it is worth a try. Waiting for a reply.

[Jimboski]

Ah okay.

People with iPhones, have you gotten iMessage and Facetime to activate? I heard it was because Apple sends out a short code to activate and Speakout doesn't send short codes.
I sent a message to Speakout on their site about turning on short code for me temporarily so I can get it activated. Not sure if they can do that but it is worth a try. Waiting for a reply.

I haven't tried FaceTime yet but I don't think It works.. Also what's iMessage? Is that the stock messaging/texting program iOS uses?

If you get the texting plan on speakout then It should work.. If you're talking about texting on the stock app that iOS comes with.

Let me know what their response Is, I'd like to know as I'm using an iPhone also!

[FunSave22]

I am leaving the country for a few weeks. Do you guys think the unlimited data will work overseas?(Asia)
Speakout only works in Canada. It does not support any roaming outside the country.

So you can't even make a simple phone call (with the exception of 911 and other emergency numbers) if you are outside Canada.

[FunSave22]

I am still on the fence about getting a sim. Honestly, I would most like to use it as a casual wifi hotspot with a Samsung Gio. I have no intention of overusing this service but it would be nice to be able to get my email, sync with dropbox and surf while on the train or out without wifi. Has anyone had success using the service in this capacity?
If you look at the speakout thread in the cell phone forum, you'll see people have been able to get it to work as a wifi hotspot. People have had problems to get tethering working though.

[mikefromcanmore]

Have been using the Speakout card on my Samgsung Gio for the last month without any problems to get a data connection. Have also tethered my Acer Aspire (windows 7) to it without any problems. Have an older Acer laptop (XP) but can't seem to get it to tether properly.

[icemasta]

If only SO/Petro offered unlimited nights and weekends to their value plans.... I'd probably switch.

[boblepp]

I am leaving the country for a few weeks. Do you guys think the unlimited data will work overseas?(Asia)

Yes, while you are in Asia your phone back here in Canada will still get data.

Oh, you mean you and the phone go overseas.... of course not. Rogers network is large but not that large. ;-)

[Jimboski]

If only SO/Petro offered unlimited nights and weekends to their value plans.... I'd probably switch.

Yeah that would be sweet but I don't see It happening.

[LanEvoVII]

what if you change phones and a year from now you want to port, should I keep the original imei that I registered with written down? I thought the pin number created when activating would serve as the security code when porting.

Yes write down your IMEI and pin number, you may need both

[Jimboski]

Yes write down your IMEI and pin number, you may need both

Is that's what needed to port your # to somewhere else? I might consider It but I don't remember my original IMEI/Pin #..

[l69norm]

Is that's what needed to port your # to somewhere else? I might consider It but I don't remember my original IMEI/Pin #..

You can port out with just the PIN.

I think there used to be a way to activate SO without creating a PIN, so the IMEI number would be required in that case

[Jimboski]

You can port out with just the PIN.

I think there used to be a way to activate SO without creating a PIN, so the IMEI number would be required in that case

The SIM PIN right?

[scouzi]

+1 although surely there's something better if you're prepared to spend $250, e.g. to get a 4" higher-res screen or to get HSPA bands that work overseas.

But yeah, the Gio (or LG Optimus One) are good basic smartphones and SpeakOut $10 UMB is the best way to use them. (Even better if you can get a Google Voice number and GrooVe IP for free calling within North America. I now rarely use SO's own cellphone service so my monthly cost is $10 UMB plus $1.25 911.)

Does this phone have a hotspot WiFi?

[l69norm]

The SIM PIN right?
No, the 4 digit pin you selected when you activated the phone or sim card.

[bylo]

Does this phone have a hotspot WiFi?
The Gio (dunno about the LG OO) has both tethering and portable WiFi hotspot capability.

[FunSave22]

The Gio (dunno about the LG OO) has both tethering and portable WiFi hotspot capability.
The LG Optimus One and Chic also support both tethering and Wifi hotspots. Although people have been having problems getting the tethering working with some laptops. But no problems with the wifi.

[Jermyzy]

Is that's what needed to port your # to somewhere else? I might consider It but I don't remember my original IMEI/Pin #..

I had the same problem when I tried to port my number over from Fido. I've changed phones 3 times since I registered with Fido prepaid so I didn't have the IMEI. Also, I don't remember selecting a PIN when I opened my accout ~10 years ago. I gave them my voicemail PIN, hopefully it's the same...still no response yet from SO whether my porting is successful yet or not. My Fido becomes inactive on Tuesday, so hopefully it works before then...

[Jimboski]

No, the 4 digit pin you selected when you activated the phone or sim card.

Argh.. Remembering that from like 10+ years ago Is going to be a pain In the butt.. Anyway to get It back If I forgot It?

[Jermyzy]

Looks like my port-out was successful. In my case, my voicemail PIN was the same as my account PIN, so maybe give that a try?

[Jimboski]

Looks like my port-out was successful. In my case, my voicemail PIN was the same as my account PIN, so maybe give that a try?

I don't use voicemail though lol.

[Jermyzy]

So I registered my account online, and it looks like there is no transaction record showing how the money is deducted from your account (which Fido does), which kinda sucks :( I guess that's how they can afford to keep their rates so low...

[bylo]

there is no transaction record showing how the money is deducted from your account (which Fido does), which kinda sucks
Yup. That (and total lack of roaming—even at Robbers' extortionary rates) is my main peeve with SpeakOut. That said, at least with UMB and, I presume, other $x/month options, I do get a text message every month when they deduct the fee.

[Jimboski]

Yup. That (and total lack of roaming—even at Robbers' extortionary rates) is my main peeve with SpeakOut. That said, at least with UMB and, I presume, other $x/month options, I do get a text message every month when they deduct the fee.

Yeah when they re-activate your monthly plan thingy they send you a text correct? The way I keep track Is I write my balance down somewhere that I have on the account and just calculate from then on what I got charged for. A tracking system would be nice; Someone go complain to them and tell them to add one!

[Troy_McClure]

Yup. That (and total lack of roaming—even at Robbers' extortionary rates) is my main peeve with SpeakOut. That said, at least with UMB and, I presume, other $x/month options, I do get a text message every month when they deduct the fee.

there's no roaming? I thought it used the rogers network. So if I go outside of the gta like in barrie or something, phone can't make any calls?

[Jimboski]

there's no roaming? I thought it used the rogers network. So if I go outside of the gta like in barrie or something, phone can't make any calls?

It Is used by the Rogers Network although 711 probably didn't purchase the roaming feature from Rogers Is what I'm guessing.

[FunSave22]

there's no roaming? I thought it used the rogers network. So if I go outside of the gta like in barrie or something, phone can't make any calls?
There's no roaming outside the country is what I believe he meant. It works everywhere in Canada that Rogers supports, but it won't work at all outside of Canada.

[animatic]

I just signed up to SpeakOut with my iphone 3GS. I added the $10 Data option but get a message stating 'Not Subscribed to Cellular Data Service'
when I use Safari (or any data app).

Do I need to add an APN or anything? Thanks

[dngo12]

I just signed up to SpeakOut with my iphone 3GS. I added the $10 Data option but get a message stating 'Not Subscribed to Cellular Data Service'
when I use Safari (or any data app).

Do I need to add an APN or anything? Thanks

I don't have data so I can't really answer your question.

Can you activate iMessage and Facetime? I have an iPhone 4s and I can't activate them.

[animatic]

Quick solve:

Had to go to unlockit.co.nz and THEN reboot. Thanks for the response, looking forward to a data plan. :)

[Jimboski]

Quick solve:

Had to go to unlockit.co.nz and THEN reboot. Thanks for the response, looking forward to a data plan. :)

The speeds are pretty solid, Posting around 80-90 MS; 5 Down, 1-1.5 Up!

[jackie999]

Quick solve:

Had to go to unlockit.co.nz and THEN reboot. Thanks for the response, looking forward to a data plan. :)

I also got that unlockit when I couldn't get my SO data working on my iphone 3G ...I have since removed it because I think it was making the phone unresponsive. I found, the enable 3G and Cellular data On was all it needed.

[animatic]

I tried those but no-go. How do you mean 'unresponsive'? For data connections or performance?

If I have issues I will try to remove it and see. Thanks!

[dngo12]

Can you guys with an iPhone activate iMessage and Facetime? I have an iPhone 4s and I can't activate them.

[jackie999]

I tried those but no-go. How do you mean 'unresponsive'? For data connections or performance?

If I have issues I will try to remove it and see. Thanks!

Everything was just way slow..web browsing just seemed to hang...

[springbok]

Can you guys with an iPhone activate iMessage and Facetime? I have an iPhone 4s and I can't activate them.

Speakout does not allow the activation of facetime and imessage with the phone number as short message codes have been blocked.

imessage will still work, but your email address will show up on the other parties phone instead of a phone number. solution: let the recipient add your email address to their contacts under your name.

[JustBob]

I finally managed to find someone in TO to buy me a SIM and mail it to me. But what about the $25 voucher? Do you have to buy that with the SIM or, can I just activate the SIM once I get it and then buy the voucher online?

[Troy_McClure]

I finally managed to find someone in TO to buy me a SIM and mail it to me. But what about the $25 voucher? Do you have to buy that with the SIM or, can I just activate the SIM once I get it and then buy the voucher online?

yes you can refill ur account online

[gn22]

I finally managed to find someone in TO to buy me a SIM and mail it to me. But what about the $25 voucher? Do you have to buy that with the SIM or, can I just activate the SIM once I get it and then buy the voucher online?

Can't you buy the SIM online and have SpeakOut mail it directly to you ? The website seems to indicate they do that...

[McLaren__F1]

People who ported out from rogers to speakout.

Do you just call speakout CS and tell them the number your porting?

Hows the data speeds?

[Jimboski]

People who ported out from rogers to speakout.

Do you just call speakout CS and tell them the number your porting?

Hows the data speeds?

80-95 Ping, Roughly 4.5-6 Down; 1-1.5 Up.

For $10 a month I'm more then happy!


Can't you buy the SIM online and have SpeakOut mail it directly to you ? The website seems to indicate they do that...

He's from Montreal and they don't ship there because there are no 711 locations there.

[McLaren__F1]

80-95 Ping, Roughly 4.5-6 Down; 1-1.5 Up.

For $10 a month I'm more then happy!

4-6 good enough for me.

Which plan do you have? 100 Minutes + Unlimited Browsing & Texting $30?

Im thinking of cancelling Robbers and porting out

[Troy_McClure]

People who ported out from rogers to speakout.

Do you just call speakout CS and tell them the number your porting?

Hows the data speeds?

Call speakout and give the number you're porting plus one other piece of information (rogers account number, imei, etc). Here's more info (http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/support/faq):


What information will you need from me to transfer my number to SpeakOut? My Swiss bank account info?

Nah, it won’t be that bad. To transfer a wireless number to SpeakOut here’s what you need:

Your current wireless phone number and most recent monthly bill, OR
Your phone number and one of the following: your account number, your password/PIN, or your phone’s Electronic Serial
Number/Mobile Equipment Identifier (ESN/IMEI) number which is located on the back of your phone under the battery.

Transferring a landline number to SpeakOut:

Your most recent monthly bill, as we require your name and address exactly as it appears on your bill.”

[woof]

Can't you buy the SIM online and have SpeakOut mail it directly to you ? The website seems to indicate they do that...

Yes, that's what I did. Bought both the sim and a $25 voucher from their web site. Came in the mail a week or more later. Didn't look very professional, an ordinary envelope in my mail box with my name and address hand written on it, some unknown company as the return address. I didn't know what it was until I opened it. I think I paid $4 for shipping that was supposed to come via some courier company - with tracking. Instead they just chucked it in the mail box with an ordinary 1st class stamp. I think they owe me about $3 back! >:(

[Jimboski]

4-6 good enough for me.

Which plan do you have? 100 Minutes + Unlimited Browsing & Texting $30?

Im thinking of cancelling Robbers and porting out

Lol I'm on the $10 UMB that's It; I use the Data plan to text out while all Incoming texts are FREE. As for the minutes I just pay as I go but I use this app called "Talkatone" which I'm still new on using and not really sure yet but It uses an American # which I can call out to the US/Canada via Wifi or 3G and It won't cost me anything; IIRC It won't be charged as a LD call to the person you're calling but that's the thing I'm unsure about. Incoming calls would be free using this Talkatone app but It's only for Americans; The free incoming that Is but free outgoing Is for both Canada/US. Talkatone Is a iPhone app btw.

If you have any questions just hit me up!


Call speakout and give the number you're porting plus one other piece of information (rogers account number, imei, etc). Here's more info (http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/support/faq):

There you go on what's required to port out and what not!


Yes, that's what I did. Bought both the sim and a $25 voucher from their web site. Came in the mail a week or more later. Didn't look very professional, an ordinary envelope in my mail box with my name and address hand written on it, some unknown company as the return address. I didn't know what it was until I opened it. I think I paid $4 for shipping that was supposed to come via some courier company - with tracking. Instead they just chucked it in the mail box with an ordinary 1st class stamp. I think they owe me about $3 back! >:(

Haha go complain to them but I doubt they'll give you a minor refund unless you really did pay for a tracking # lol.

[M-e-X-x]

If anyone is looking for SIM cards in the GTA and can't find in stores, I have 2 unactivated.

[Jimboski]

If anyone is looking for SIM cards in the GTA and can't find in stores, I have 2 unactivated.

Why you haz so many? Also how much?

[thelefteyeguy]

anyone able to connect to internet this morning :(

[jackie999]

anyone able to connect to internet this morning :(


Can't connect here either..I looked on the unofficial 7-11 speakout forums and it looks like they've started blocking ports again...party's over :(

[FunSave22]

Can't connect here either..I looked on the unofficial 7-11 speakout forums and it looks like they've started blocking ports again...party's over :(
Browser access still works if you set up your APN to the first section of the first post of this thread.

http://forums.redflagdeals.com/speakout-data-android-calling-all-users-tips-tricks-1053209/


And if you install autoproxy (on an Android phone), you can get some of the apps to work.

[Jimboski]

Browser access still works if you set up your APN to the first section of the first post of this thread.

http://forums.redflagdeals.com/speakout-data-android-calling-all-users-tips-tricks-1053209/


And if you install autoproxy (on an Android phone), you can get some of the apps to work.

Any fix for the iPhone? :(.

This sucks, [WTS] 711 Speakout SIM with $60 Credit LOL.

[CheeseDie]

Any fix for the iPhone?

Yea, throw it in the trash.

Android +1

Hey, what happened to your Optimus one /LG Chic... you were the one who were constantly posting in the thread I made about the sale at FS/BB back in December..

You meant to tell me you never got one?

[Jimboski]

Yea, throw it in the trash.

Android +1

Hey, what happened to your Optimus one /LG Chic... you were the one who were constantly posting in the thread I made about the sale at FS/BB back in December..

You meant to tell me you never got one?

I have one but what do I do with the iPhone? LOL.

[Troy_McClure]

There you go on what's required to port out and what not!


huh lol?

[CheeseDie]

I have one but what do I do with the iPhone? LOL.

I wiped mine down with a micro fiber and %70 alcohol, charge it to %40 and put it in the box...

I'm also going to try the LG Quantum.. let see what works in WP7 with the proxy... As I recall no GPS maps and No App store/Updates...

[Jimboski]

huh lol?

It was what you said and your link that MCLAREN was asking for!

[Redfisher]

the proxy and port got my data back, just need to get my email working again...

[Jimboski]

the proxy and port got my data back, just need to get my email working again...

Wheres the love for the iOS users!?!? :(.

[CheeseDie]

Wheres the love for the iOS users!?!? :(.

in this case it is iOS Losers!

http://m5.paperblog.com/i/6/66240/trolling-cyber-bullying-the-dark-side-of-the--L-NAIsdu.jpeg

[rivet]

So I have to root my phone and use autoproxy? That sucks.

That is why I couldn't get skype work this morning, so parties over.

[Jimboski]

in this case it is iOS Losers!

http://m5.paperblog.com/i/6/66240/trolling-cyber-bullying-the-dark-side-of-the--L-NAIsdu.jpeg

:cry:!


So I have to root my phone and use autoproxy? That sucks.

That is why I couldn't get skype work this morning, so parties over.

Hey! At least you have another way of getting It work, iOS people are left In the cold!

[CheeseDie]

:cry:!



Hey! At least you have another way of getting It work, iOS people are left In the cold!

AHHAHAHAHA!!!

I have a solution.. Take that $55 Android phone, then use it to create a wifi hotspot and then connect your iPhone to it...

iPhone, powered by Android!

I am packing up my iPhone right now. no way I pay more than $10 a month...

But I can tell you that you are going to miss the glass screen...

[M-e-X-x]

Why you haz so many? Also how much?

Same price, but comes with $5 airtime on top.

[Jimboski]

AHHAHAHAHA!!!

I have a solution.. Take that $55 Android phone, then use it to create a wifi hotspot and then connect your iPhone to it...

iPhone, powered by Android!

I am packing up my iPhone right now. no way I pay more than $10 a month...

But I can tell you that you are going to miss the glass screen...

Yeah I really like iOS but I don't mind Android at all; Not a fanboy of either OS.. If there's no fix for this I'm going to go with an Android phone and sell my iPhone LOL. As for setting up a hotspot on my android phone.. I'd have to have TWO data plans to get one phone working when I can just connect my iPhone to my wifi network anyways!? Seems like a rip-off haha!


Same price, but comes with $5 airtime on top.

I see, I was just curious as I already have a SIM card :)!

[rivet]

There is fix, see my post in the 7-11 android thread in cellphone forum
http://forums.redflagdeals.com/speakout-data-android-calling-all-users-tips-tricks-1053209/44/#post14195436

Btw, I have both iphone and LG optimus one, I am about to sell my iphone simply because the android phone (like the LG optimus one) is so cheap and I can get some money back from iphone.


Yeah I really like iOS but I don't mind Android at all; Not a fanboy of either OS.. If there's no fix for this I'm going to go with an Android phone and sell my iPhone LOL. As for setting up a hotspot on my android phone.. I'd have to have TWO data plans to get one phone working when I can just connect my iPhone to my wifi network anyways!? Seems like a rip-off haha!



I see, I was just curious as I already have a SIM card :)!

[rivet]

You still needs to set up the proxy setting on your iphone or computer if you use your android phone's mobile hotspot.

AHHAHAHAHA!!!

I have a solution.. Take that $55 Android phone, then use it to create a wifi hotspot and then connect your iPhone to it...

iPhone, powered by Android!

I am packing up my iPhone right now. no way I pay more than $10 a month...

But I can tell you that you are going to miss the glass screen...

[animatic]

:facepalm:

Shoulda known it wouldn't last...

On IOS: TextMe app still works , Talkatone is now useless... Also the native Email app won't connect for me.
Browser still works.

[Jimboski]

:facepalm:

Shoulda known it wouldn't last...

On IOS: TextMe app still works , Talkatone is now useless... Also the native Email app won't connect for me.
Browser still works.

Try this one right here; LINK (http://forums.redflagdeals.com/speakout-data-android-calling-all-users-tips-tricks-1053209/17/#post14195436)

It worked for me for the most part on whatever I tried.. Texting/Safari/Speedtests. Much much slower but better then nothing really. Ping Is like 190; 2.5 Down / ??? Up, Lol.

[McLaren__F1]

Lol I'm on the $10 UMB that's It; I use the Data plan to text out while all Incoming texts are FREE. As for the minutes I just pay as I go but I use this app called "Talkatone" which I'm still new on using and not really sure yet but It uses an American # which I can call out to the US/Canada via Wifi or 3G and It won't cost me anything; IIRC It won't be charged as a LD call to the person you're calling but that's the thing I'm unsure about. Incoming calls would be free using this Talkatone app but It's only for Americans; The free incoming that Is but free outgoing Is for both Canada/US. Talkatone Is a iPhone app btw.

If you have any questions just hit me up!

How you call your LG's like this?

[animatic]

Thanks Jimboski, just tried that Utility.

For me the VOIP apps (talkatone, Viber) still don't work anymore as well as the email (strangely?)
They were great yesterday (very good audio on a 3G call.. shame)

I'll try a reboot just in case.

[Jimboski]

How you call your LG's like this?

They call me; Then I be like "honey bunny I'll call you back" that way It's free minutes, Sup? Free for both me and her!

But yeah hopefully all the apps works with this since It's a default port I think..

[rivet]

It is not strange, it was like this before the port open recently. VOIP and texting apps are not supposed to work as Rogers intentionally blocked them so you can pay more for voice minutes and texting. It is not an iOS problem as most voip apps do not work for android either even after the autoproxy. You should be happy that textme works, lol. Maps should work.

As for gmail, set it up as a microsoft exchange account and you are good to go.


Thanks Jimboski, just tried that Utility.

For me the VOIP apps (talkatone, Viber) still don't work anymore as well as the email (strangely?)
They were great yesterday (very good audio on a 3G call.. shame)

I'll try a reboot just in case.

[CheeseDie]

funny.. youtube streaming is blocked but mobile p0rn streaming works... :o

[Jimboski]

It is not strange, it was like this before the port open recently. VOIP and texting apps are not supposed to work as Rogers intentionally blocked them so you can pay more for voice minutes and texting. It is not an iOS problem as most voip apps do not work for android either even after the autoproxy. You should be happy that textme works, lol. Maps should work.

As for gmail, set it up as a microsoft exchange account and you are good to go.

TextMe works BUT there are no push notifications :(.. Kind of useless now IMO If you constantly have to check for updates yourself!


funny.. youtube streaming is blocked but mobile p0rn streaming works... :o

Hahah really? Hook It up LOLOL.

[Redfisher]

funny.. youtube streaming is blocked but mobile p0rn streaming works... :o

Youtube works fine on mine, I lost my weather updates and had to switch to push mail.

[Jimboski]

Youtube works fine on mine, I lost my weather updates and had to switch to push mail.

Actually YouTube does work for me also, I didn't expect It to work.. As I didn't think YouTube counted as "Browsing"..

Anyone know how to get Push notifications to work for the default Email app on the iOS? My Hotmail doesn't send push notifications but others said their Gmail does? I did the MS trick thingy..

[Master]

I predicted that after the promotion that things will be tightened up. They waited one month after...

Next step should be selective abusers' phone numbers black listing blockade

[Jimboski]

I predicted that after the promotion that things will be tightened up. They waited one month after...

Next step should be selective abusers' phone numbers black listing blockade

They should just blacklist the people that abuse It too hard and keep It how It was a couple of days ago!

^ Of course that's too good to be true haha.

[chimp]

Actually YouTube does work for me also, I didn't expect It to work.. As I didn't think YouTube counted as "Browsing"..

Anyone know how to get Push notifications to work for the default Email app on the iOS? My Hotmail doesn't send push notifications but others said their Gmail does? I did the MS trick thingy..

If you use exchange mode, gmail/hotmail would have push working on iPhone, even using the restricted UMB. Even yahoo mail should work assuming the iPhone client is designed specifically for yahoo mail(which also has http based push).

ActiveSync(i.e. Exchange mail) + data plan is one of the key nail in the coffin for RIM.

[hironomous]

Jimboski, were you getting push notifications for text me before? Mine has always been eratic. i sent their helpdesk a message to ask about it, and it got better for a while. In the last week or so, I get notifications hours late, which is worse than useless. I'm using ASProxy My son on the other hand with the same setup, but different phone was getting imediate notifications all the time at least when the ports were open - I haven;t checked in the last few days.

[Jimboski]

If you use exchange mode, gmail/hotmail would have push working on iPhone, even using the restricted UMB. Even yahoo mail should work assuming the iPhone client is designed specifically for yahoo mail(which also has http based push).

ActiveSync(i.e. Exchange mail) + data plan is one of the key nail in the coffin for RIM.

What's exchange mode? I went Into "Settings" -> "Mail,Contacts,Calendars" -> "Add Email" and selected "Microsoft Exchange"; After that everything got authorized properly but I don't seem to get any notifications. Is that the right steps?


Jimboski, were you getting push notifications for text me before? Mine has always been eratic. i sent their helpdesk a message to ask about it, and it got better for a while. In the last week or so, I get notifications hours late, which is worse than useless. I'm using ASProxy My son on the other hand with the same setup, but different phone was getting imediate notifications all the time at least when the ports were open - I haven;t checked in the last few days.

Yeah TextMe sent me notifications properly; It was kind of odd though.. Some of the text messages I received would sometimes go to my stock Messaging app and then most of the rest goes to TextMe. Other then that everything worked fine. My messages seem to come In instantly!

Now that the ports are closed no more notifications for anything :(.

[chimp]

What's exchange mode? I went Into "Settings" -> "Mail,Contacts,Calendars" -> "Add Email" and selected "Microsoft Exchange"; After that everything got authorized properly but I don't seem to get any notifications. Is that the right steps?


Can you read the email ? If yes, that is already correct. The notification is a feature on the server side. Microsoft hotmail can be iffy. gmail is better.

[Jimboski]

Can you read the email ? If yes, that is already correct. The notification is a feature on the server side. Microsoft hotmail can be iffy. gmail is better.

Yes I can, So It's based on "Hotmail's" servers If I get push notifications or not?

[chimp]

Yes I can, So It's based on "Hotmail's" servers If I get push notifications or not?

yup. hotmail only has this feature for a few months if I am not mistaken and still have quite some glitches in this department.

[Jimboski]

yup. hotmail only has this feature for a few months if I am not mistaken and still have quite some glitches in this department.

Alright thanks!

[ryecatcher]

Perhaps this thread should be merged with the one below which is actually the proper forum for this type of discussion.

http://forums.redflagdeals.com/speakout-data-android-calling-all-users-tips-tricks-1053209/

[Jimboski]

Perhaps this thread should be merged with the one below which is actually the proper forum for this type of discussion.

http://forums.redflagdeals.com/speakout-data-android-calling-all-users-tips-tricks-1053209/

I think the mods will leave It as Is as the other thread has a lot of replies and would cause confusion If they do merge It.

[l69norm]

Push usually only works for a little while through a proxy. The proxy doesn't like permanent connections and shuts them down after about 5 mins. Unless the server or client realizes what happened and restarts the connection, push then stops working until you manually restart it.

[uruha]

Just got my sim card yesterday~ Took them roughly 8 hrs to port my prepaid number from Fido, went faster than I thought :)

Guess I am too late to the party... >///< Oh well..activated UMB for a month if they start blocking everything then I'll take it off after this month~

[Jimboski]

Just got my sim card yesterday~ Took them roughly 8 hrs to port my prepaid number from Fido, went faster than I thought :)

Guess I am too late to the party... >///< Oh well..activated UMB for a month if they start blocking everything then I'll take it off after this month~

Some Apps will work depending If your using an Android or an iPhone. Some of them won't give you push notifications which I find annoying! Especially my Texting app haha.

[uruha]

I have a rooted Gio + 4s~

I usually have access to wifi.. so mobile data is only for emergency use :)

I am fine w/ keeping the speakout sim in the Gio~ So far Whatsapp/Youtube/LINE/OperaMini/Facebook/Market all seem to work fine~ half of an HQ video on Youtube ate away 15mb @__@ <== Will not do that from now on..
I don't want to be blacklisted.. :o

PS: did a quick speedtest => ping: 317ms d/l: 1269kbps u/l: 2611kbps <= u/l > d/l?! @__@

[bylo]

Another app that doesn't work with ProxyDroid is µTorrent Remote.

(And no, I'm not using it to fileshare on my phone. I'm using it to start and monitor torrents on my desktop when I'm away.)

[CheeseDie]

Cannot tether to the TOUCHPAD or PLAYBOOK now!!!! arrrrg!

[FunSave22]

Cannot tether to the TOUCHPAD or PLAYBOOK now!!!! arrrrg!
While I'm not certain about tethering, people have been able to get the wifi hotspot working with the playbook. You just need to enter the proxy info into the wifi connection in the playbook. The same may be true for tethering, I'm not sure.

http://forums.redflagdeals.com/speakout-data-android-calling-all-users-tips-tricks-1053209/51/#post14207492

[CheeseDie]

While I'm not certain about tethering, people have been able to get the wifi hotspot working with the playbook. You just need to enter the proxy info into the wifi connection in the playbook. The same may be true for tethering, I'm not sure.

http://forums.redflagdeals.com/speakout-data-android-calling-all-users-tips-tricks-1053209/51/#post14207492

Ya, I am using the hotspot in my LG optimus one, and autoproxy enabled. nothing on the TOUCHPAD... or iPod touch.

[FunSave22]

Ya, I am using the hotspot in my LG optimus one, and autoproxy enabled. nothing on the TOUCHPAD... or iPod touch.
I got the wifi hotspot working on my friends iPad a couple of hours ago.

He just entered the proxy number and port number in the wifi info.


This was using a LG Chic and ProxyDroid, but I don't see why this would make a difference as they are both nearly the exact same.



Maybe the ipad and ipod touch are different, I'm no sure.

[CheeseDie]

I got the wifi hotspot working on my friends iPad a couple of hours ago.

He just entered the proxy number and port number in the wifi info.


This was using a LG Chic and ProxyDroid, but I don't see why this would make a difference as they are both nearly the exact same.



Maybe the ipad and ipod touch are different, I'm no sure.

Ya, I did enter the proxy info into the iPod touch (actually old iPhone) but I made a mistake in thinking that it was not working...

Some things are blocked just like if you had the sim card in it. Like mail app and youtube. Weather app works as does opera mini and safari... app store loads...
maps are a go also... just video does not work...

[Tender]

I have a sim card that was activated when my parents came for a visit. Now they went home and I don't need it any more. It was already activated with $1.25 left on it.

Any interested can have it for free as I don't want to waste it. Pick up only either downtown Toronto or Markham.

Edit: gone.

[Jimboski]

I have a sim card that was activated when my parents came for a visit. Now they went home and I don't need it any more. It was already activated with $1.25 left on it.

Any interested can have it for free as I don't want to waste it. Pick up only either downtown Toronto or Markham.

Free? I'll take It! I won't be re-selling It of course, Just a back up!

[uruha]

i think someone else has mentioned this earlier, but I also found the browsing experience (& facebook works. market works and downloads) is a lot nicer on the LG Quantum~ too bad whatsapp doesn't work on it (unless i haven't looked hard enough for an autoproxy-equivalent on the market.. :confused:)

[CheeseDie]

i think someone else has mentioned this earlier, but I also found the browsing experience (& facebook works. market works and downloads) is a lot nicer on the LG Quantum~ too bad whatsapp doesn't work on it (unless i haven't looked hard enough for an autoproxy-equivalent on the market.. :confused:)

I can confirm that Windows Phone 7 (quantum) and Windows Mobile 6.5 (Samsung Omnia 2) for some reason work much better than iPhone or Android phones, that I also have..

Actually I have all 4. (just traded in my Omnia 2)

[asuro]

I am using LG Chic unlocked from Bell, the 3G connection works well during most of January while it looks most of the apps were blocked through 3G except the browser now.....even opera does not work, can anyone help to confirm it is the general situation? or i am "black listed"?

thanks!



I have a rooted Gio + 4s~

I usually have access to wifi.. so mobile data is only for emergency use :)

I am fine w/ keeping the speakout sim in the Gio~ So far Whatsapp/Youtube/LINE/OperaMini/Facebook/Market all seem to work fine~ half of an HQ video on Youtube ate away 15mb @__@ <== Will not do that from now on..
I don't want to be blacklisted.. :o

PS: did a quick speedtest => ping: 317ms d/l: 1269kbps u/l: 2611kbps <= u/l > d/l?! @__@

[Corleone187]

so they blacklist people who use a lot of data?

that seems to be a better solution then just canning the umb plan for everyone?

[CheeseDie]

I am using LG Chic unlocked from Bell, the 3G connection works well during most of January while it looks most of the apps were blocked through 3G except the browser now.....even opera does not work, can anyone help to confirm it is the general situation? or i am "black listed"?

thanks!

Nope.. I have the Optimus one... same thing as the chic... Opera MOBILE works opera mini does not.

[bylo]

so they blacklist people who use a lot of data?So far there have been no reports of that AFAIK. One poster claimed he was told by SO that they flag people who use more than 350MB per month but there was no explanation of what "flag" means.


that seems to be a better solution then just canning the umb plan for everyone?Another approach would be that after you crossed a threshold your speed would degrade from 3G to 2G until the end of the month. That way you at least still have some service, albeit slower than usual.

[Haz]

Nope.. I have the Optimus one... same thing as the chic... Opera MOBILE works opera mini does not.Opera Mobile is regular browsing while Opera Mini uses the Opera servers as a proxy I think.

[l69norm]

Nope.. I have the Optimus one... same thing as the chic... Opera MOBILE works opera mini does not.
In opera mini, under settings ...advanced ...protocol
Pick http. Sockets/http won't work.

Opera mobile in turbo mode is like opera mini - uses opera servers for compression. In regular mode, it uses regular browsing, no data compression

[Jimboski]

so they blacklist people who use a lot of data?

that seems to be a better solution then just canning the umb plan for everyone?

That's what they should have done, Not this port blocking crap!

[uruha]

Nope.. I have the Optimus one... same thing as the chic... Opera MOBILE works opera mini does not.

hmm.. Opera Mini worked for me though (i didn't change the default settings on it..)

but I had other problems with Whatsapp and Line. With autoproxy on Gio, I could send message out okay.. but I couldn't seem to receive them properly (sometimes i don't get the messages until I got back on wifi...)

[chimp]

hmm.. Opera Mini worked for me though (i didn't change the default settings on it..)

but I had other problems with Whatsapp and Line. With autoproxy on Gio, I could send message out okay.. but I couldn't seem to receive them properly (sometimes i don't get the messages until I got back on wifi...)

as mentioned by another poster, proxy tend to have relatively short 'session' so once your connection is cut, there is no way the server can send you anything back. This also affect Microsoft's ActiveSync/Exchange push. There are support documents telling enterprise IT how to configure their proxy server to be ActiveSync friendly. Rogers obviously has every reason to make the session short :-)

[mikka1989]

was too lazy to switch over to this 7/11 SO, kinda scared to cut my regular sim card to micro size

[Jimboski]

was too lazy to switch over to this 7/11 SO, kinda scared to cut my regular sim card to micro size

If your In the GTA then go to PMALL, They cut It for like $3.. If not then try going to like the Wireless Carriers' stores.

[aasoror]

That's what they should have done, Not this port blocking crap!

You do know that UMB stands for "Unlimited Mobile Browsing" ? this is exactly what we are getting right now. Whatever we used to (can) get by exploiting loopholes is irrelevant. When they start offering real data plans it wont be for $10 ;)

[Jimboski]

You do know that UMB stands for "Unlimited Mobile Browsing" ? this is exactly what we are getting right now. Whatever we used to (can) get by exploiting loopholes is irrelevant. When they start offering real data plans it wont be for $10 ;)

Alright what I meant was we were getting more then we're paying for! Yeah It's probably just going to be regular Rogers data plans except you can get them on a prepaid plan Is my guess..?

[uruha]

as mentioned by another poster, proxy tend to have relatively short 'session' so once your connection is cut, there is no way the server can send you anything back. This also affect Microsoft's ActiveSync/Exchange push. There are support documents telling enterprise IT how to configure their proxy server to be ActiveSync friendly. Rogers obviously has every reason to make the session short :-)

Yeah.. I am aware of the short proxy sessions.. :) but I was hoping that by manually opening the app again it would force the app to sync with the server again (it sorta appears to work with GMAIL app with this manual refresh method..) I thought manual refresh would work with whatsapp or line too.. guess not.. hmm..

A quick question though, if I leave mobile data on overnight, even if I am not doing anything, it seems to consume about ~15 mb on its own on my Gio. Is this normal?

[CheeseDie]

So far there have been no reports of that AFAIK. One poster claimed he was told by SO that they flag people who use more than 350MB per month but there was no explanation of what "flag" means.

Another approach would be that after you crossed a threshold your speed would degrade from 3G to 2G until the end of the month. That way you at least still have some service, albeit slower than usual.

highly doubt they "flag" anything...

I am using this hotspot as my main internet at home... oh yes I eat gigs...

LET ME PUT IT THIS WAY!

I have had this phone on 24/7 plugged into the wall so long to the point the phone had to be reset!

The battery is not shot, but word down badly... I just bought this phone during the boxing day sale 2012.... :|

[chronos]

I just bought this phone during the boxing day sale 2012.... :|

Time machine go! :lol:

[CheeseDie]

Time machine go! :lol:


you know I mean 2011

I started the LG Optimus one / Chic thread and then that opened the flood gate for everyone and their pet fish to use up the 7-11 / petro $10 data plan...http://forums.redflagdeals.com/lg-chic-optimus-one-technical-thread-1122617/#post13982512

regardless of how much any one person uses be it 500 MB or 30GB Rogers aint gonna like keeping a proxy server open just for us cheap prepaid peeps... they would just knock us all down to 2G or cancel it all together...


unlimites 2G internet.com would be great for $10.. at least apps would work...

[chimp]

Yeah.. I am aware of the short proxy sessions.. :) but I was hoping that by manually opening the app again it would force the app to sync with the server again (it sorta appears to work with GMAIL app with this manual refresh method..) I thought manual refresh would work with whatsapp or line too.. guess not.. hmm..

A quick question though, if I leave mobile data on overnight, even if I am not doing anything, it seems to consume about ~15 mb on its own on my Gio. Is this normal?

client side polling should always work, it is your apps issue. As you mention, GMAIL works.

As for data consumption, you need to find the culprit app that is using it, not sure which one it is.

[l69norm]

.....
regardless of how much any one person uses e it 500 MB or 30GB Rogers aint gonna like keeping a proxy server open just for us cheap prepaid peeps... they would just knowck us all down to 2G or cancel it all together...

The rogers proxy has the ability to limit umb to only official so/petro phones. Rogers could easily implement filtering and ban smartphones. Rogers already do this for rogers umb.

[CheeseDie]

The rogers proxy has the ability to limit umb to only official so/petro phones. Rogers could easily implement filtering and ban smartphones. Rogers already do this for rogers umb.

Actually they cannot ban smartphones, just the IMEI's. there ARE official smarphones with 3G that are allowed on the ROGERS UMB plan...

But the problem is that Speakout already advertized the feature, so they would have to change the terms and say "only speakout phones" and inform people that if you buy the SIM only , voice and text is all that will work. Also The Nokia C3 from speakout does not fully work with the proxy server... The Nokia C3 from Rogers has internet.com because the IMEI is in the allowed data base.

I know this because I have the Rogers C3 and I have been using a FIDO Nokia to tether to my computer! :D for $3 it really is all you can use data! internet.com too not compressed data!

anyhoo we all had a good run.

[Kurtz7834]

That's what they should have done, Not this port blocking crap!

They should have stopped the UMB, leaving all ports open and had a bandwidth cap?

If you want this, you can easily find it with *every other carrier.* Go to them, bye.

I think what Speakout did is ideal. It gets rid of the majority of abusers and those with technical know how and the right software can continue to use the service the way they want for $10 a month and not worry about huge bills and data caps.

[l69norm]

....Also The Nokia C3 from speakout does not fully work with the proxy server... The Nokia C3 from Rogers has internet.com because the IMEI is in the allowed data base..

C3 is s40 or java based, so its really a dumbphone or a java featurephone. True smartphones would be the 5800 s60, Sony x10 mini android or viaza pro.

Anyway, Speakout never advertised that you can use a smartphone and as well it depends on what their contract with rogers says. Rogers could unilaterally slam the door shut on SO if its in the contract. Rogers could careless about what so might have promised its customers. Rogers owns the proxy goam.com, not SO

[Kurtz7834]

The rogers proxy has the ability to limit umb to only official so/petro phones. Rogers could easily implement filtering and ban smartphones. Rogers already do this for rogers umb.

AFAIK Rogers / Bell / Telus and all their little child companies only filter based on IMEI lists of their own phones. I don't think that all three carriers have access to the others' IMEI databases, thank God.

Speakout is NOT Rogers owned, they just lease access to the Rogers network. If Speakout was Rogers owned its UMB would be long dead, as all the Big 3 have killed their UMB plans.

My suspicion is that soon Speakout will take away more $ value in business from Rogers than it pays to Rogers to lease the network.

The norm in Canada is not for big companies to compete, just buy your competitors.

Given that this is Canada with its useless Competition Bureau, my biggest worry is that Rogers BUYS Speakout / Petro Canada and ruins all the plans, prices and features. The way Bell did with Virgin Mobile.

[l69norm]

Rogers white lists certain phones for rogers umb. All other phones are banned, even the same models from another carrier

[Kurtz7834]

Rogers white lists certain phones for rogers umb. All other phones are banned, even the same models from another carrier

Interesting. Bell does not do this AFAIK.

[Jimboski]

Rogers white lists certain phones for rogers umb. All other phones are banned, even the same models from another carrier

I don't get what you mean.. If the phone Is unlocked then It shouldn't be effected right? Either way the phone has to be locked to Rogers or unlocked In general anyways to use 711 SO.

[Kurtz7834]

I don't get what you mean.. If the phone Is unlocked then It shouldn't be effected right? Either way the phone has to be locked to Rogers or unlocked In general anyways to use 711 SO.

IMEI is the 'serial number' / ID of the phone you are using. From the IMEI you can determine the model of the phone and the carrier it was originally locked to. Carriers can tell the IMEI of devices on their network regardless of whether the phone is locked or unlocked.

[Jimboski]

IMEI is the 'serial number' / ID of the phone you are using. From the IMEI you can determine the model of the phone and the carrier it was originally locked to. Carriers can tell the IMEI of devices on their network regardless of whether the phone is locked or unlocked.

I see, Alright nevermind on what I said then haha.

Although I haven't read any complaints regarding buying another carrier's phone and trying to use It here and not having It work.

[jakemtl]

Anyone using a Gevey Ultra S to unlock an iPhone 4S for use on Speakout? I'm looking to pick one up but just noticed the following on the distributor's web site: (http://applenberry.com/store/simcard)

This is an older version of the SIM card and will not work with GEVEY SIM, GEVEY Pro, or GEVEY Ultra. Notice the larger metal area of the SIM card.http://applenberry.com/images/old_sim.jpg

In order to unlock your iPhone 4, you will need the newer version of the SIM card which look like this. Also note that the SIM card that is used to activate your iPhone 4 will not work because that SIM card is already unlocked to your iPhone 4.
http://applenberry.com/images/new_sim.jpg

I have an older speakout SIM card with a really large chip. The SIM is cut down and the chip takes up basically the entire space of the SIM card. Is anyone using one these with the Gevey on an iPhone 4s?

If it is in fact an issue, do the newer speakout sim cards have smaller chips per the second image?

[Bugs119]

All iphones can be soft unlock now. I unlock my old 3gs to work with speakout now :)

[Jimboski]

Anyone using a Gevey Ultra S to unlock an iPhone 4S for use on Speakout? I'm looking to pick one up but just noticed the following on the distributor's web site: (http://applenberry.com/store/simcard)

This is an older version of the SIM card and will not work with GEVEY SIM, GEVEY Pro, or GEVEY Ultra. Notice the larger metal area of the SIM card.http://applenberry.com/images/old_sim.jpg

In order to unlock your iPhone 4, you will need the newer version of the SIM card which look like this. Also note that the SIM card that is used to activate your iPhone 4 will not work because that SIM card is already unlocked to your iPhone 4.
http://applenberry.com/images/new_sim.jpg

I have an older speakout SIM card with a really large chip. The SIM is cut down and the chip takes up basically the entire space of the SIM card. Is anyone using one these with the Gevey on an iPhone 4s?

If it is in fact an issue, do the newer speakout sim cards have smaller chips per the second image?


All iphones can be soft unlock now. I unlock my old 3gs to work with speakout now :)

This! :arrowu:

[aznblitz]

too lazy to read through all those pages..but can anyone tell me what works with the umb from speakout? does it work like a real data plan ? or is it basically the like 3g network?

and has anyone here used it with an unlocked android tablet?

recently bought a samsung galaxy tab 8.9 4g that i wanted to get unlocked ....can the speakout data plan work with this tablet? thanks

[Jimboski]

too lazy to read through all those pages..but can anyone tell me what works with the umb from speakout? does it work like a real data plan ? or is it basically the like 3g network?

and has anyone here used it with an unlocked android tablet?

recently bought a samsung galaxy tab 8.9 4g that i wanted to get unlocked ....can the speakout data plan work with this tablet? thanks

No, Browser based apps will work, Also the usual Mobile Browsing.
Not sure If you can use autoproxy on tablets but If you can some of the other apps will unlock but It's not FULL DATA.
It might be 3G connection depending on your location.

[aznblitz]

No, Browser based apps will work, Also the usual Mobile Browsing.
Not sure If you can use autoproxy on tablets but If you can some of the other apps will unlock but It's not FULL DATA.
It might be 3G connection depending on your location.

thanks for the information...so basically if all i wanted to do was use the tablet as a browsing machine no need to download games or anything of that nature..would the speakout work? also im not sure the tablet like you said would be able to access the proxy settings..even though the tab has 4g and would accept the sim card

[Jimboski]

thanks for the information...so basically if all i wanted to do was use the tablet as a browsing machine no need to download games or anything of that nature..would the speakout work? also im not sure the tablet like you said would be able to access the proxy settings..even though the tab has 4g and would accept the sim card

As for a tablet working with Speakout UMB I'm not to sure.. You would have to wait for someone else to reply to that.
But browsing on a phone works fine without anything except punching In Speakouts APN settings.
I'm 70% sure It works for Tablets but wait for someone that knows 100% If It does work or not.

[UTSC]

Does any of the prepaid service providers in Canada offer International Roaming (roaming in Europe/Asia)

[bylo]

Does any of the prepaid service providers in Canada offer International Roaming (roaming in Europe/Asia)
I'm not aware of any. But even if they did you probably couldn't afford the roaming fees.

Better bet while outside Canada:
• buy individual SIMs and airtime in each country you visit
• buy a single "global" SIM like e-Kit or Mobal (see e.g. www.prepaidgsm.net )

The former is cheaper but much more of a hassle since you have to switch SIMs in each country. The latter is more convenient but also more (sometimes much more) expensive. Both are much cheaper than international roaming.

[rulerman]

I am using Speakout on my Samsung Galaxxy Tab 7" GSM version for more than 6 months. It is working nice.
I am using AutoProxy and everything is working, from youtube(app) to Gmail(push email) and also Google play. I didn't find any application that is not working. Only problem is when your data seems that is not working you have to restart Autoproxy or after you reboot autoproxy is not starting automaticaly. My tablet is rooted and unlock with custom ROM on it.

[aznblitz]

I am using Speakout on my Samsung Galaxxy Tab 7" GSM version for more than 6 months. It is working nice.
I am using AutoProxy and everything is working, from youtube(app) to Gmail(push email) and also Google play. I didn't find any application that is not working. Only problem is when your data seems that is not working you have to restart Autoproxy or after you reboot autoproxy is not starting automaticaly. My tablet is rooted and unlock with custom ROM on it.

can anyone tell me what this autoproxy is.? is it need to run the speakout sim? ...is it an app that needs to be downloaded? and can it be downloaded on a tab that isnt rooted but unlocked?

also, basically all you have to do is buy the speakout sim and add funds to the account and if say if you want to use the tablet with data all you have to do is subscribe to the data service ?? or do you have to go through the full activation to get a new number and does subscribing to a plan take out money from the account monthly if you dont use any talk time?

thanks

[Jimboski]

can anyone tell me what this autoproxy is.? is it need to run the speakout sim? ...is it an app that needs to be downloaded? and can it be downloaded on a tab that isnt rooted but unlocked?

also, basically all you have to do is buy the speakout sim and add funds to the account and if say if you want to use the tablet with data all you have to do is subscribe to the data service ?? or do you have to go through the full activation to get a new number and does subscribing to a plan take out money from the account monthly if you dont use any talk time?

thanks

Autoproxy Is an app on Android that let's you change things like VPN or APN something like that. I would think you have to root your phone/tablet to get the autoproxy app to work not sure.

1. Buy Speakout SIM.
2. Add money onto SIM and subscribe to UMB.
3. Put SIM In Tablet or Phone depending.
4. Setup Auto proxy OR just setup default APN/VPN settings.

If you only want to browse on your tablet you can just punch In the default APN/VPN settings listed on the Speakout site or In the original post.
If you want more apps to work then what It's offered on REGULAR UMB then you change the APN/VPN with autoproxy.
I think this Is how It works.

[rulerman]

Autoproxy Is an app on Android that let's you change things like VPN or APN something like that. I would think you have to root your phone/tablet to get the autoproxy app to work not sure.

1. Buy Speakout SIM.
2. Add money onto SIM and subscribe to UMB.
3. Put SIM In Tablet or Phone depending.
4. Setup Auto proxy OR just setup default APN/VPN settings.

If you only want to browse on your tablet you can just punch In the default APN/VPN settings listed on the Speakout site or In the original post.
If you want more apps to work then what It's offered on REGULAR UMB then you change the APN/VPN with autoproxy.
I think this Is how It works.

Yes, exactly like this. But indeed you need to root your tablet.

[UTSC]

I'm not aware of any. But even if they did you probably couldn't afford the roaming fees.

Better bet while outside Canada:
• buy individual SIMs and airtime in each country you visit
• buy a single "global" SIM like e-Kit or Mobal (see e.g. www.prepaidgsm.net )

The former is cheaper but much more of a hassle since you have to switch SIMs in each country. The latter is more convenient but also more (sometimes much more) expensive. Both are much cheaper than international roaming.

Thanks for the input. I was told that Rogers/Fido prepaid roaming works internationally. I am not going to make or receive calls overseas. I just need to receive my CaSMS and voice message notices form my Canadian number to my mobile phone handset and I call use some voip services to retrieve the message and to call people back.

I like SpeakOut wireless because of their 365 days expiry dates on even the $10 recharge but I guess no international roaming. Fido/Rogers only offer 365 days expiry on thier $100 recharges. I heard that Wind Mobile prepaid has international roaming but I have not tried it.

[bylo]

Thanks for the input. I was told that Rogers/Fido prepaid roaming works internationally.... I just need to receive my CaSMS and voice message notices... I heard that Wind Mobile prepaid has international roaming but I have not tried it.
That's why I said "I'm not aware of any." ;)

Even with SMS I'd contact Rogers/Fido to find out how much an SMS is going to cost you in the countries you plan to visit.

Another option to consider is to change your VM while you're away to ask people to send you an e-mail insread of leaving a VM message. You can check e-mail and/or return calls by VoIP using free WiFi from almost anywhere these days so the cost to you is zero.

[madman604]

anyone tried a galaxy Note on Speakout?

[rulerman]

If anybody wants I have a Speakout SIM card activated with 82$ credit on the account.

[Jimboski]

If anybody wants I have a Speakout SIM card activated with 82$ credit on the account.

Free? I'll take It!

[nickj524]

How is the service/coverage. Is it decent for voice and SMS in the gta?

I tried searching, but mostly everything that comes up is talking about data.

[jackie999]

How is the service/coverage. Is it decent for voice and SMS in the gta?

I tried searching, but mostly everything that comes up is talking about data.

No problems here..Speakout runs on the Rogers network...

[Jimboski]

No problems here..Speakout runs on the Rogers network...

+1.

[rvs007]

I have a question for those on SO who had their wireless number ported over from another carrier.

After you received the text message letting you know the number has been successfully ported, how long did it take to register that number on SO's website so that you can start topping up the account with credit?

I ported my number over this morning, and I'll been trying to register the number to my online account, but the website complains the number is not an active SO number.

[Jimboski]

I have a question for those on SO who had their wireless number ported over from another carrier.

After you received the text message letting you know the number has been successfully ported, how long did it take to register that number on SO's website so that you can start topping up the account with credit?

I ported my number over this morning, and I'll been trying to register the number to my online account, but the website complains the number is not an active SO number.

Call them and see If you can top up via phone. Although they might know your CC info..

[rvs007]

Call them and see If you can top up via phone. Although they might know your CC info..

Ya, that's what I want to avoid if at all possible. It shouldn't take this long for the website to recognize the number, should it?

Their web support phone line closes at 5pm, so unfortunately, they might not get back to me until Monday at the earliest. It sucks because I wanted to be able to use the phone on the weekend.

[Jimboski]

Ya, that's what I want to avoid if at all possible. It shouldn't take this long for the website to recognize the number, should it?

Not sure, Well you can just call them up and ask how long this process usual take. Then wait It out.
I'd rather ask them and wait It out rather then giving them your CC info.

[rvs007]

Not sure, Well you can just call them up and ask how long this process usual take. Then wait It out.
I'd rather ask them and wait It out rather then giving them your CC info.

Their customer service rep forwarded me to their web support line, but their web support line doesn't have a queue so I'm forced to leave a voicemail and have someone call me back.

[rvs007]

I have a question to those on SpeakOut Wireless... does SO offer their customers a listing/summary of all calls made through the account so you can track usage/minutes?

[bylo]

does SO offer their customers a listing/summary of all calls made through the account so you can track usage/minutes?
No.

I'm hoping they'll add that to their online My Account, however, I'm not optimistic. By providing that level of detail they'd expose themselves to people who call customer service to complain that some call or other isn't theirs. I suspect that would end up being a no-win situation. One the one hand, if they were liberal in giving callers credit for such calls it would cost them a lot of revenue. OTOH if they took a hard position on credits then their reputation would suffer. Better, at least for them, to let sleeping dogs lie.

[pipolchap]

Just reading the thread and I need some confirmation on my 2 choices.

1) Buy SIM alone, Cost $10, Result $5 airtime (valid 1 year)

2) Buy Nokia 1616 + $50 Card, Cost $69, Result $55 airtime (valid 2 years, if you activate and use $50 card one year later)

Does this work?

[riccd2001]

You have to pay HST so the $Can69 is really $Can 77.97. >:( Also the 911 service will eat away $1.25 monthly (not sure if HST is extra to that) and before you know it, you'll have to top up to keep service going. But as they state on receipt, "Account value expires 365 days from PIN activation."

In any event, I bought mine yesterday and so far so good. For basic cell phone service this is currently the best deal out there. :cheesygri

[bylo]

2) Buy Nokia 1616 + $50 Card, Cost $69, Result $55 airtime (valid 2 years, if you activate and use $50 card one year later) Does this work?
Not quite. Airtime vouchers have to be applied to your account within 90 days of purchase. Otherwise they expire worthless. So with option 2) you only have 90 days plus 365 days of validity.

[bylo]

You have to pay HST so the $Can69 is really $Can 77.97. >:(
The same taxes at the same rate apply to the purchase of a $10 SIM.


Also the 911 service will eat away $1.25 monthly (not sure if HST is extra to that) and before you know it, you'll have to top up to keep service going.You paid HST on the airtime so the $1.25 includes it. In any case, 24 x $1.25 = $30 so even if the airtime could be made to last 24 months (but they can't), 911 charges alone won't exhaust it in that period.


"Account value expires 365 days from PIN activation."
The issue is that the PIN has to be activated within 90 days of purchase.

[sixshot28]

getting a unlocked T moblie HTC HD7 from the US,buddies selling It too me for a great price..
picking up this SIM...
can I use wifi surfing with this phone even If I
m on this SIM???

[boblepp]

getting a unlocked T moblie HTC HD7 from the US,buddies selling It too me for a great price..
picking up this SIM...
can I use wifi surfing with this phone even If I
m on this SIM???

Yes, but that is up to your phone. An iPhone (all I have used) always defers to wifi if present... uses 3G when no wifi is available. You can always turn off 3G and leave wifi on to have control yourself.

[mikka1989]

i had to drive ALL THE WAY TO WHITBY to get this POS sim card! :facepalm:

[bylo]

i had to drive ALL THE WAY TO WHITBY to get this POS sim card! :facepalm:
That depends on where you live. There are two 7-11s within 5 minutes drive from me.

If you're not near a 7-11 then you can order a SIM from them online and they mail it to you anywhere in Canada (outside of QC.) IIRC they charge ~$4 for shipping. That's less than the cost of driving in many situations.

P.S. If you decide to drive, phone the store first to make sure they have stock. I didn't do that last week when I needed another SIM and the first 7-11 was OOS. They were kind enough to phone the other store to confirm that there was stock there.

[rvs007]

If you're not near a 7-11 then you can order a SIM from them online and they mail it to you anywhere in Canada (outside of QC.) IIRC they charge ~$4 for shipping. That's less than the cost of driving in many situations.I think ordering SIMs online is no longer an option available from their website.

[MrFrugal1]

I think ordering SIMs online is no longer an option available from their website.

That's right. Not sure why they stopped shipping. Glad I got one beforehand...Closest 7-11 is 2 hours away.

[bylo]

I think ordering SIMs online is no longer an option available from their website.
Interesting. Thanks for the clarification. The way I read their website now, the "Discount and product only available in store. While quantities last." applies to not only the SIM but also to all of their phones. Maybe this is temporary while the current promo runs.

If I lived far from a 7-11 I'd call Customer Service and see if they could sell me the SIM over the phone. If not I suppose there's always PetroCan Mobility.

[can2000]

Any stores in missisdauga still sell sim? Thanks

[bylo]

Any stores in missisdauga still sell sim?
What did the stores tell you when you phoned them to ask?

[Jimboski]

Any stores in missisdauga still sell sim? Thanks

Mostly all 7/11's should sell them.
If you aren't sure If they do you should just call them up and make sure so you don't go there empty handed!

[dealhunter2011]

Question: I want to maintain a phone number by porting it over to 711, after I do that, do I actually need to have the SIM card in the phone to receive voicemail? Or can I just leave the SIM card out of the phone, and have that number still go straight to voicemail? The idea is to keep hold of my current number while I'm away for a while.

[Jimboski]

Question: I want to maintain a phone number by porting it over to 711, after I do that, do I actually need to have the SIM card in the phone to receive voicemail? Or can I just leave the SIM card out of the phone, and have that number still go straight to voicemail? The idea is to keep hold of my current number while I'm away for a while.

Yes you will need the SIM inside the phone and the phone has to be on In order to receive voicemail. If there Is no SIM inserted and someone tries to call no one can get through because the line Isn't active meaning the SIM Is out of the phone or the phone Is off! Basically when you call a phone that's powered off It would say something about the # you are calling Isn't available or something like that..

Basically what you can do Is top off like $20 and every month It'll only drain about $1.50 In monthly fees. There shouldn't be any other fees other then that since the phone won't be used.
Also any amount you top off renews the prepaid duration back to 365 days/1 year.

[dealhunter2011]

Yes you will need the SIM inside the phone and the phone has to be on In order to receive voicemail. If there Is no SIM inserted and someone tries to call no one can get through because the line Isn't active meaning the SIM Is out of the phone or the phone Is off! Basically when you call a phone that's powered off It would say something about the # you are calling Isn't available or something like that..

Basically what you can do Is top off like $20 and every month It'll only drain about $1.50 In monthly fees. There shouldn't be any other fees other then that since the phone won't be used.
Also any amount you top off renews the prepaid duration back to 365 days/1 year.

Ok, cool. I'll be taking my good phone with me, so maybe I'll just get a really cheap unlocked phone to put the sim in and leave powered on. To thicken the plot more, if I were to take that powered-on phone out of Canada, say to the US, would the voicemail still work? I assume 711 has no US coverage?

[Jimboski]

Ok, cool. I'll be taking my good phone with me, so maybe I'll just get a really cheap unlocked phone to put the sim in and leave powered on. To thicken the plot more, if I were to take that powered-on phone out of Canada, say to the US, would the voicemail still work? I assume 711 has no US coverage?

Wouldn't work, Speakout doesn't have any kind of roaming feature.
So just get a crappy phone that has good battery life like a dumbphone and just keep the charger In or whatever, Should be good after that.
711 Speakout uses Rogers' service, So you won't need a unlocked phone.. Just a Rogers locked phone or whatever works.

[bylo]

Ok, cool. I'll be taking my good phone with me, so maybe I'll just get a really cheap unlocked phone to put the sim in and leave powered on. To thicken the plot more, if I were to take that powered-on phone out of Canada, say to the US, would the voicemail still work? I assume 711 has no US coverage?
What he told you is complete, utter nonsense.

The SIM doesn't have to be in a phone and the phone doesn't have to be on. Well, duh! Isn't VM designed for situations when your phone is off or you're out of range of a cell tower, etc?

People who call your SO number will still get a prompt to leave VM and the VM system will accept their messages. The problem is that if your phone isn't turned on and connected to the SO (i.e. Robbers) network, in Canada, you won't get any notification that that there's a VM message for you.

A further complication is that SO keeps a maximum of 10 VMs for a maximum of only 5 days. That makes it inconvenient when you're out of cell phone range or out of the country. You can check for VM from your phone but that incurs SO air time charges. You can also check for VM from another phone, including VoIP and Skype, without any charges from SO. This lets you check for VM from anywhere in the world.

The point is that once you top-up airtime, even $25, it stays valid for a year (unless you use it faster.) Each month SO will deduct $1.25 for "911" fees so you can go a full year without making calls for less than the $25 minumum top up. At that point you'll need to spend another $25 to keep the account and phone number alive. And yes, you'll get to keep unused air time so your balance will continue to grow (assuming you make few calls.)

And yes, even though SO is on the Robbers network, they have no roaming agreements so their service ends at the US border.

[can2000]

So, what benefit of this function if you can't get VM notification? thanks

I am thinking to get one SIM, and use their $10/month unlimited browsing + skype or FreePhoneLine (or dell voice). Does it work?

[bylo]

So, what benefit of this function if you can't get VM notification? thanks
You'll get immediate VM notification if your phone is on and connected to a Canadian cell tower. Otherwise you have 5 days to get back in cell tower range or check your VM from another phone.


I am thinking to get one SIM, and use their $10/month unlimited browsing + skype or FreePhoneLine (or dell voice). Does it work?See this megathread: Speakout data and android... calling all users for tips/tricks (http://forums.redflagdeals.com/speakout-data-android-calling-all-users-tips-tricks-1053209/).

The short answer is that UMB means unlimited browsing not unlimited data. You can hack your way to extending the function beyond simple browsing, i.e. root the phone, install/run a proxy but some functions will still not work. Specifically, Skype will work but Dell Voice won't.

[can2000]

You'll get immediate VM notification if your phone is on and connected to a Canadian cell tower. Otherwise you have 5 days to get back in cell tower range or check your VM from another phone.

See this megathread: Speakout data and android... calling all users for tips/tricks (http://forums.redflagdeals.com/speakout-data-android-calling-all-users-tips-tricks-1053209/).

The short answer is that UMB means unlimited browsing not unlimited data. You can hack your way to extending the function beyond simple browsing, i.e. root the phone, install/run a proxy but some functions will still not work. Specifically, Skype will work but Dell Voice won't.

Thanks and thanked!

[Jimboski]

What he told you is complete, utter nonsense.

The SIM doesn't have to be in a phone and the phone doesn't have to be on. Well, duh! Isn't VM designed for situations when your phone is off or you're out of range of a cell tower, etc?

People who call your SO number will still get a prompt to leave VM and the VM system will accept their messages. The problem is that if your phone isn't turned on and connected to the SO (i.e. Robbers) network, in Canada, you won't get any notification that that there's a VM message for you.

A further complication is that SO keeps a maximum of 10 VMs for a maximum of only 5 days. That makes it inconvenient when you're out of cell phone range or out of the country. You can check for VM from your phone but that incurs SO air time charges. You can also check for VM from another phone, including VoIP and Skype, without any charges from SO. This lets you check for VM from anywhere in the world.

The point is that once you top-up airtime, even $25, it stays valid for a year (unless you use it faster.) Each month SO will deduct $1.25 for "911" fees so you can go a full year without making calls for less than the $25 minumum top up. At that point you'll need to spend another $25 to keep the account and phone number alive. And yes, you'll get to keep unused air time so your balance will continue to grow (assuming you make few calls.)

And yes, even though SO is on the Robbers network, they have no roaming agreements so their service ends at the US border.

:o

[sixshot28]

Just too give you guys a heads up...
I went too 7/11 here in Winnipeg MB and apprently the voucher 50.00 refill cards are on sale for 30.00 you save 20.00 automatically...
this is great espically while the 200 airtime is bumped too 400 min a month...

I'm currently on the 25.00 a month monthly plan this giving me 100 local airtime calling,caller ID,call forwarding,call waiting,voicmail,unlimited txting/sms,unlimted data browsing(which I'm still working on getting too run)
all this for 30.00 for 60.00 because of the saving on the refill voucher!

i'm never agian going on a contract mwhahaha:cheesygri

btw YMMV I'd just check with with the cashier too make sure...

[Jimboski]

Just too give you guys a heads up...
I went too 7/11 here in Winnipeg MB and apprently the voucher 50.00 refill cards are on sale for 30.00 you save 20.00 automatically...
this is great espically while the 200 airtime is bumped too 400 min a month

Hmm, YMMV?
I don't see any kind of promotion on the site!
Buy me some!

[rebjorne]

Anyone know where you can buy this bloody SIM card in the GTA? I've called like 8 stores and none of them have it in stock.

[jackie999]

Anyone know where you can buy this bloody SIM card in the GTA? I've called like 8 stores and none of them have it in stock.

You could check/ask here http://www.speakoutwireless.ca/speak/in-store-availability/sim-card-in-gta/

[bylo]

You could check/ask here http://www.speakoutwireless.ca/speak/in-store-availability/sim-card-in-gta/
Some excellent advice there:

Buying the Nokia 1616 phone with the special promotion is worth considering. When you buy the $50 airtime, you get the phone for $19. But as it comes with the sim and $5 credit on it, the phone only costs you $4. It's good to keep around as a spare.

[bylo]

I think ordering SIMs online is no longer an option available from their website.

http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/asset/upload/image/speakoutPhoneAds/136-1208-280x251-SIM-promo-w4-280x251.jpg (http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/prepaid-cellphones/speakout-sim-card)

[Jimboski]

http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/asset/upload/image/speakoutPhoneAds/136-1208-280x251-SIM-promo-w4-280x251.jpg (http://www.speakout7eleven.ca/prepaid-cellphones/speakout-sim-card)

Yup, It's back after the complaints on RFD!