As local number portability was launched yesterday, CellOne sweetened the deal with a ‘$200 off’ promotion on some postpaid phone services.

Rival Digicel is promising mobile users “a smooth experience” when switching their numbers, by launching Digicel Refresh, a new phone pricing plan which allows customers to pay in monthly instalments with no money down.

The CellOne promotion gives new postpaid line activation customers three choices:

— $200 off a new feature phone or smartphone on a two-year contract;

— $200 off the PowerUp plan providing a zero dollar down option for cell phone device purchases;

— $200 off their mobile service if activating a new line with their existing phone.

Frank Amaral, CellOne chief executive offer, said in a press release: “CellOne is pleased to offer new customers the use of their current mobile number in order to benefit from our best-in-class customer service and reliable network.

“Our award winning customer service, as decided by Bermuda, has a proven track record for the highest satisfaction ratings for wireless carriers on the Island. We look forward to providing our services to customers looking for quality and cost savings.”

Digicel say to switch to their service “is easy, and involves just three simple steps”.

They explain: “In-store option: customers should visit any one of Digicel’s stores with a valid identification, a current debit or credit card, proof of their current address, the last bill from their existing carrier and their current cell phone.

“The second method allows customers to request the switch to Digicel by calling its 24-hour Customer Care at 500-5000, or by e-mailing info.bermuda@digicelgroup.com, or by submitting a request online at www.digicelbermuda.com. Customers choosing this method will be invited to come into a Digicel to complete the process, choose their plan and collect their new SIM cards and phones.

“For both options, Digicel will deliver SIMs and devices to customers within the Hamilton and hospital areas. Customers will also receive a call on their Digicel SIM to confirm the switch is complete.”

Digicel Bermuda CEO Wayne Caines stated: “Since Digicel’s launch in Bermuda, we have continuously worked to deliver on our promise of best service, and the introduction of local number portability is no different. As the only wireless carrier in Bermuda with a local call centre, we are fully committed to providing extraordinary customer service delivered by a team of dedicated professionals trained and ready to make the switching experience a seamless one.”

Their press release states that Digicel Refresh also allows customers to purchase smartphones by paying small monthly instalments, starting at $10 per month. Customers pay nothing upfront and may upgrade their handsets after six months by paying 50 percent of the total device cost, it states.

“At a time when the entire telecommunications industry in Bermuda is being refreshed with local number portability, it is fitting that we introduce our Digicel Refresh phone pricing,” continued Mr. Caines. “Digicel is proud to deliver best value and best service to its customers across Bermuda and this pricing plan and upgrade feature is testament to that — allowing customers to access the latest and greatest handsets through a payment plan that suits their wallet.”

Both existing and new postpaid customers are eligible for Digicel Refresh. The handset is not tied to a mobile plan contract; there is a separate agreement for the handset.

CellOne’s offer means that prepaid customers who choose to transfer to CellOne will be given a free SIM card along with their outstanding balance from their current provider.

CellOne stated: “Up to $25 will be placed as a one-time credit directly on the new CellOne prepaid account. New prepaid customers will now be able to enjoy the savings of CellOne’s $2.50 Prepaid Daily Plan where they will only pay for days used.”

CellOne also provided the following information for customers wanting to start their number transfer immediately:

— Ensure your phone is unlocked — carriers will unlock your phone for free within one business day of a request;

— Submit your number transfer request — online at www.cellone.bm, call 707-7000 or visit one of our three stores island-wide;

— Wait for approval;

— Activate your account.

For existing customers, CellOne’s ‘Friends and Family Referral Offer’ means existing customers will receive a $25 Gift Card plus entry into a draw for one of two giveaways for each successful referral activation, the winners of which will be awarded one free year of local mobile service.