Texting A Uk Number From Australia: The Complete Guide

how to text a uk number from australia

If you're wondering how to text a UK number from Australia, there are a few options available to you. Firstly, you can use OTT messaging applications such as WhatsApp, Viber, Telegram, or Messenger, which allow for international messaging with end-to-end encryption. Alternatively, you can use a virtual UK phone number from a virtual number provider, which will enable you to send SMS texts directly to UK phone numbers. Another option is to use a UK SIM card, which will work in Australia and other countries. If you wish to send a text message from an Australian mobile phone to a UK number, ensure that the UK mobile number is prefixed by +44 and exclude the initial 0.

Characteristics Values
UK mobile number prefix +44
Number of digits in a UK mobile number 10
Exclusion Initial 0
International access code from the UK + or 00
Australian country code 61
Mobile code 04
Area code for Sydney 02
Cost of calling Australia from the UK £2 to £5 per minute on average
OTT messaging applications WhatsApp, Viber, Telegram, Messenger

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Using a UK number from outside the UK

If you are based outside the UK and need a UK local number, you can opt for a virtual UK phone number. A virtual phone number is not bound to a fixed location and can be used to make or receive calls and text messages on any device, often through VoIP phones. Virtual numbers can be beneficial for individuals and businesses looking to make calls from outside the UK to avoid roaming charges.

There are several ways to get a UK virtual phone number. You can use platforms like VoIP service providers and apps like Google Voice, Skype, and Zadarma. Here are some detailed instructions for each method:

  • Google Voice: Sign in to your Google account on the Google Voice app or website. Choose the UK as your location and select a number. Link your existing phone number for verification, and once verified, set up call forwarding to that number. Google Voice offers a free UK number with basic call and text features.
  • Skype: Skype is a suitable option if you require advanced call management features like voicemail and call forwarding.
  • VoIP service providers: Providers like Calilio offer UK virtual numbers equipped with features like call analytics, voicemail by email, and live call monitoring. With Calilio, you can get multiple UK numbers and use them from a single device.
  • Zadarma: With Zadarma, you can make and receive calls through various mobile applications, including iOS, Android, and Windows. You can also use their call forwarding feature to forward your virtual number to any country. Zadarma offers widespread geographical coverage of virtual phone numbers, with the UK being one of their popular options.

Additionally, if you already have a UK number and want to keep it while living outside the UK, you can use Calilio's virtual phone number service to maintain your existing UK number regardless of your location.

It is important to note that when texting a UK number from Australia, ensure that you do not include the initial '0' of the UK number.

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Using OTT messaging services

OTT messaging services are a great way to text UK numbers from Australia. OTT stands for "over-the-top" and refers to messaging services that are provided by third parties as an alternative to traditional text messaging services offered by mobile operators. Examples of OTT messaging services include WhatsApp, Viber, Telegram, Messenger, and iMessage.

OTT messaging services have several advantages over traditional SMS. Firstly, they offer lower costs, especially when sending messages internationally. In countries like the UK, OTT messaging may be significantly cheaper than SMS, allowing users to connect at a fraction of the cost. Secondly, OTT messaging services provide always-on connectivity, meaning you can send and receive messages as long as you have an internet connection. This is particularly useful when travelling or when SMS services are unreliable or unavailable.

Another benefit of OTT messaging is that there is no limit to the number of characters you can use in a single message, unlike SMS, which restricts messages to 160 characters. This allows for more flexibility and expressiveness in your conversations. OTT messaging services also offer media-rich features, enabling you to send photos, videos, and other types of media easily.

To use OTT messaging services to text a UK number from Australia, simply download and install the relevant app on your device. Ensure that the person you want to communicate with also has the same app installed. Keep in mind that OTT messaging requires an internet connection, so make sure you have a stable data connection or Wi-Fi access.

By using OTT messaging services, you can easily communicate with friends, family, or business contacts in the UK from Australia, taking advantage of the low costs and rich features that OTT messaging provides.

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Using a virtual number

To text a UK number from Australia, you can use a virtual phone number service. This allows you to choose a UK phone number that is linked to your Australian phone number. When someone in the UK sends you a text, it will come through to your Australian phone.

There are several virtual phone number providers to choose from, including Calilio, Google Voice, RingCentral, and Sonetel. These providers offer a range of features, such as call recording, voicemail, SMS, and auto attendants. Some providers also offer advanced AI-powered services, such as call summaries and transcriptions.

  • Sign up for an account with a virtual phone number provider. You will need to provide some personal information, such as your name, email, and phone number.
  • Choose a UK phone number with the desired area code.
  • Purchase the number by selecting a plan that suits your needs. You may need to provide proof of your identity and address.
  • Download and install any required apps on your phone. Some providers offer free apps for Android and iOS devices, which you can use to make and receive calls and texts.
  • Start using your UK phone number to send and receive texts and make and receive calls.

It is important to note that some virtual phone number services may charge a fee for using a UK phone number, and you should check if there are any international calling or texting fees. Additionally, when texting a UK number, ensure that you use the correct country code (+44) and comply with any UK rules regarding text messaging, such as avoiding unexpected marketing messages.

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Using a short code

Since 1 June 2023, the UK has banned receiving text messages with international long codes, citing concerns over spam and security. This means that texting a UK number from Australia requires a different approach. One method to overcome this hurdle is by using short codes.

Short codes are special numbers, shorter than a full telephone number, used to send and receive text messages. They are designed for high-volume senders who need to deliver a large number of messages simultaneously. In the context of texting a UK number from Australia, short codes can be a viable solution.

To use a short code for this purpose, you would need to obtain a UK short code that is distinct from the short codes used in other countries. Each country maintains its own list of available vanity short codes, so it's important to refer to the UK's list specifically. Keep in mind that short codes are typically used for sending messages within a single country, so a UK short code would be tailored for messaging within the UK.

Obtaining a short code usually involves an application and approval process, and it may take several weeks to get approved. Once you have acquired a UK short code, you can leverage it to send bulk messages to UK numbers from Australia without encountering the restrictions imposed on international long codes. Short codes provide a convenient avenue for sending a large volume of messages efficiently.

It's worth noting that short codes may not be suitable for all businesses or individuals. They are primarily intended for high-volume senders, and there are eligibility criteria to consider. Additionally, short codes do not offer a personalised or branded experience as they are typically not associated with a specific brand or identity. Nonetheless, for those needing to send a high volume of messages to UK recipients from Australia, short codes present a practical solution within the current regulatory framework.

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UK's international exit code

To text a UK number from Australia, you'll need to know the international country code for the UK, as well as the UK number's area code and phone number.

The UK's international country code is the sequence of numbers that allows you to place an outbound call or send a text message to the UK from another country. This code is sometimes referred to as the international access code or international direct dialing (IDD) code. Each country has its own unique code, which is typically between one and three digits long.

The UK's international country code is 44. This code is used for both calls and text messages sent to the UK from another country.

When sending a text message or making a call to a UK number from Australia, you will need to include the UK country code, followed by the area code and phone number. The area codes in the UK span from two to five digits. If the UK number you are texting starts with a 0, you can omit this when entering the phone number. The phone number itself should have ten digits, including the area code. If it is a mobile number, it will have nine digits (without the mobile code).

As an alternative to dialling the UK's country code, you can use the plus (+) symbol as a universally recognised indicator that an international call or text message is being placed.

Frequently asked questions

As long as the UK mobile number is prefixed by +44 and excluding the initial 0 (so something like +44776543210 for 0776 543210) it will work fine. On most mobiles, when inserting the number, you hold the "0" button to get a "+" symbol.

This will depend on your service provider and plan. Some plans include free international SMS.

Yes, to call a UK mobile from Australia, dial the international exit code (00 or +), the UK country code (44), the mobile code (without the leading 0), and the recipient's phone number. For example, 00 44 7765 43210.

The cost of calling the UK from Australia depends on various factors, including your service provider and the type of call. Landline calls are generally cheaper than mobile calls. Traditional calls may cost around £2 to £5 per minute on average.

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