Can I use a UK sim card from U.S. to call a cell phone in the U.K./Would that save any money?

Question

I don't know about this so any help would be appreciated!

I am here in the UK for a month. I have a T-Mobile cell phone that I had the World Plan or whatever it is put on, so I am able to make/receive phone calls. However the rate is I believe 99 cents a minute. So I wanted to use an international phone card. I was told I needed a UK Sim card in my phone first. At the T-Mobile store here, the UK Sim card did not work and I was told I needed to have my phone unlocked. I called T-Mobile in the US, and they sent me an email saying they sent my request on to the manufacturer and it could take fourteen days. By the time all of this is done, I could be leaving.

But my question is, my friend is going to be living in the UK for the next year. If I do finally get a UK sim card before I leave, when I am back in the US can I switch that into my phone when I want to call my friend and if he has T-Mobile and a UK sim card in his phone, will it work and will that save us money?

Answer 1

You can find lots of places here that will unlock your phone for you. It only takes a few minutes and doesn't cost much. You can then pick up a SIM for around £5 = $10. Should be able to use a phone card then. Not sure the rate for calls to the US but it will be a lot less than 99c p/m. Enjoy your stay : )

Answer 2

Using a UK sim card in the States to call a UK phone is going to cost you a fortune. You won't find it easy to top up the credit unless you do this online.

What ever country your in get a calling card for that country if your planning on making a phone call abroad otherwise you'll find your spending over the odds on call charges.