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Hong Kong has a sophisticated telecommunications system and one of the highest rates of telephone density in the world; its cellular telephone penetration is over 119 percent and virtually all households and commercial buildings have broadband access. The Government's Office of the Telecommunications Authority is the statutory body for regulating the telecommunications industry in Hong Kong. It answers inquiries regarding Internet and mobile phone charges and questions regarding telephone coverage throughout the territory. It also advises the public on what to do in case of commercial electronic messages or "spam" under the Unsolicited Electronic Messages Ordinance.
There are several companies offering a multitude of fixed line, mobile, Internet and broadband packages, the largest of which is:
Land LinesAll fixed line calls within Hong Kong are free. For all services, a Hong Kong ID card or passport and proof of residence are necessary. Bills are sent monthly.
Other telecom providers include:
Mobile TelephonesA Hong Kong ID card or passport and proof of residence is needed for a mobile telephone contract, but not for a prepaid SIM card. Many of the fixed line providers also provide mobile services:
Other mobile telephone providers include:
The Hong Kong mobile phone system allows people to keep telephone numbers even when switching providers. There is no need to notify the existing provider, as the new provider will handle the cancellation when transferring the number. This applies to long-term telephone contracts as well as prepaid SIM cards, so non-residents who started using prepaid cards can retain their telephone number even when switching to a long-term contract. Lost or stolen mobile telephonesMany mobile telephone providers offer Auto Phonebook Back Up services, ensuring that all stored data may be retrieved in the case of a lost or stolen phone. All mobile phones have a unique code, the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) code. This belongs to the handset and is associated with a card, the SIM (Subscriber Identification Module) card, which holds the telephone number assigned to a customer.
The IMEI number provides protection if a phone is lost or stolen. The IMEI code is clearly shown on the paperwork at time of purchase. Note it down and keep it separate from the mobile. Or to find the IMEI number, enter: *#06# on the keypad. The loss or theft of a mobile cell phone must be reported to the service provider. They will need the IMEI number or details of the SIM card. The service will be suspended and the telephone blocked making it impossible for anyone else to use it, and the phone may be traced. The owner is responsible for payment of any calls made until the SIM is blocked unless they have taken out insurance with the supplier. Internet Service ProvidersMany fixed-line and mobile telephone companies offer Internet packages. For all subscriptions a passport or Hong Kong ID card will be necessary, plus proof of residence. PCCW's broadband service is Netvigator.Other Internet Service Providers are: Further Information
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This is the "Telephone & Internet Service Providers in Hong Kong" INFOrmation Page at AngloINFO Hong Kong. AngloINFO Hong Kong's INFOrmation Pages provide an online encyclopaedia covering all aspects of "Life in Hong Kong, in English!". AngloINFO Hong Kong is your Hong Kong information source, for everyone living in Hong Kong or moving to Hong Kong, covering everything from the Hong Kong property and real estate contacts you need before and during your move to China, to all aspects of everyday life in the Hong Kong international community for those living their lives in China. » Find out more about AngloINFO in China | ||||||||||||||||||||||
