Vodafone UK and Truphone ( a VoIP provider ) have agreed a Mobile Virtual Network Operator ( MVNO ) deal which means that Truphone become a virtual 3G mobile operator in the UK. The new service from Truphone is called Truphone Local Anywhere. Truphone claims that its Truphone Local Anywhere offers provides substantial savings when compared to other UK mobile operators for roaming and overseas voice calls and texts.

Examples are that a UK person in the US can make a mobile phone call within the US at only 10p a minute and save up to 90% on international calls. A list of the ways Truphone users can save money on Truphone Local Anywhere are listed below. Truphone Local Anywhere uses a single SIM card ( smart ) and roaming is available in 185 countries. The full pricing details a:

Local calling rates in Truphone countries: with Truphone Local Anywhere, a UK traveler in the US calling a local US number on their mobile pays only 10p/min, vs. £1.37/min standard mobile operator rate1

Local contact numbers in Truphone countries: local numbers mean people can call you on your mobile at local rates for them – at no cost to you.

Low-cost international calling: great rates to make international calls at home or abroad, offering savings of up to 90% over standard mobile operator charges

Low-cost roaming: great rates when roaming in non-Truphone countries offering savings of up to 40% over standard mobile operator charges As Truphone Local Anywhere combines low cost calling and convenience at home and abroad, it provides an all in one solution which can replace a standard operator’s SIM in an unlocked GSM phone, making it the only phone service you’ll ever need.

Business travellers: save as much as 90% on calls made in and from Truphone countries and act like a local by providing colleagues with a local number to reach you on. Outside Truphone countries, you continue to make savings on normal roaming charges.

International or gap year students: put your parents’ minds at rest by keeping them up to date with your travels, no matter what country you find yourself in. In the US, a quick 5 minute call to the UK once a week will cost just £26 year with Truphone, compared to over £350 on a standard mobile operator charge. Your parents can also call you on your UK number, at a local charge for them.

Frequent travellers: stay local to friends and family at home and abroad with one mobile phone without worrying about expensive phone bills. Take advantage of local call rates to call friends you’ve made overseas and low cost calls to those back home

Second home-owners: feel like a true local in your home away from home by taking advantage of local call rates. For example, in the US, call to book taxis or your favourite restaurant for as little as 10p per minute, compared to as much as £1.37 per minute on a standard mobile operator charge.