Think Mobile | Vodafone Regional Network FAQ
What is the Vodafone Regional Network?
The Vodafone Regional Network (VRN) is a network coverage extension that allows Think Mobile users who use the Vodafone network, to access more sites in outer metro and regional areas by roaming onto other network sites in certain coverage areas.
I’m not with Vodafone – why does this matter to me?
Your Think Mobile service uses the Vodafone network to provide your mobile coverage, so you’ll benefit from this extra coverage too!
What will it mean for me?
If you use your Think Mobile phone in outer metro or regional areas, you will now be able to use your phone in many areas where coverage is provided by another network, but not currently covered by the Vodafone network. This means you’ll get extra coverage in more places. Thousands of square kilometres of extra coverage will be provided.
How will it be charged? Will it cost more?
There is no difference in pricing when you are using the Vodafone Regional Network. You will be charged the normal pricing according to your Reward Mobile rate plan for calls, text messages and mobile data.
How will I know where there is new coverage on the Vodafone Regional Network?
You can check our coverage map. Click here to view Think Mobile coverage maps. From 1st July 2013 the expected coverage on the Vodafone Regional Network will be shown. You will know it is new coverage on the Vodafone Regional Network when coverage is indicated as “(Regional)” in the Type of Coverage information.
Is it available everywhere where another network is available?
No – it covers specific agreed sites. It will cover many outer metro and regional areas where another network provides coverage and the Vodafone network does not.
Which handsets can use the Vodafone Regional Network?
The Vodafone Regional Network uses LTE bands 1(2100MHz), 3(1800MHz) and 5(850MHz); 3G at 900MHz and 2100MHz and 2G (GSM) at 900MHz. Most current 4G, Dual Band or Tri Band handsets will work on the Vodafone Regional Network.
How do I get access to the Vodafone Regional Network?
Access to the Vodafone Regional Network will be provided automatically once it’s available. Your SIM service settings will be updated automatically during July 2013. Some very old SIM cards may be unable to be updated automatically. If you cannot access the Vodafone Regional Network after July 2013, please contact us and we will arrange a SIM replacement at no extra cost.
Can I use all of my normal services while I’m connected to the Vodafone Regional Network?
Yes – you will have access to all of your normal services.
Why won’t my Smartphone register on the Vodafone Regional Network?
Users of some Android Smartphones and other selected devices may have to turn roaming on in their phone software to gain access to the Vodafone Regional Network. Specifically, users of these phones may also need to turn on data roaming before they can use data on the Vodafone Regional Network.
Why is there a warning on my phone about Data Roaming Costs?
Some phones may display a warning or alert about data roaming usage costs. This is a standard feature in the software of many phones and when you see this warning when you are using the Vodafone Regional Network in Australia it’s nothing to worry about. Standard call charges apply for using data or any other voice or text service on the Vodafone Regional Network.
Will I need to do anything differently if I want to use my phone overseas?
If you need to allow data roaming in your phone settings to access data on the Vodafone Regional Network, you’ll need to remember to block data roaming if you travel overseas and you don’t want to incur global data roaming charges. You’ll get an SMS to remind you of this when you arrive in a new overseas country.
How does my phone know to switch networks?
Your phone will remain connected to the Vodafone network until coverage is no longer available. If coverage is available from an agreed Vodafone Regional Network site, your phone will roam onto that site . Every few minutes the handset scans for the Vodafone network and will connect to the Vodafone network as soon as adequate signal strength is available.
Who should I call if I have a problem?
You should always call Think Mobile Customer Care on 1300 2 THINK (1300 2 84465) if you have any problems.
How will I know if I am using the Vodafone Regional Network?
You may have a “Roaming” indicator displayed on the screen of your phone.
Are the free or included calls to other Think Mobile customers on my rate plan still no additional charge when I’m using the Vodafone Regional Network?
Yes. Your standard call plan rates apply regardless of whether you are using the Vodafone Regional Network or not.
Can I make International calls and calls to special numbers when I’m using the Vodafone Regional Network?
Yes – as long as these services are enabled on your Think Mobile service.
Does data cost more when I’m using the Vodafone Regional Network?
No – you’ll pay the same price and if you have data inclusions in your rate plan then the data usage will be deducted from your allowance as usual.
Will my contract details change?
No – there is no change to your contract.