I’ve had a mobile phone since 1998. Over that time, mobile phone coverage has gone from literally zero, to 4G coverage. Over the years, I’ve learnt lots of ways to improve your mobile phone signal. So keep reading to find out what options are available to you.
5 Ways To Improve Your Mobile Phone Signal
Back in 1998, mobile phone signal was zero in pretty much any suburban home. It was commonplace for my friends and I ho have to hang our arms out of our bedroom windows to get a text message to send, or receive. I used to leave my mobile phone on the windowsill of whichever room I was in, as the signal was always best, as far away from the solid brick walls of my red-brick home.
Turn Your Phone Off and On Again
When considering ways to improve your mobile phone signal, the most common “fix” is to turn your phone off and on again. I know it’s cliche, but turning your phone off and on again really does resolve a lot of mobile phone issues. If you’ve got no service or your signal is low, a reboot will reconnect you to your mobile phone network, and will often resolve temporary issues. (Did you know I worked for a mobile phone network’s Customer Service back in the 00’s? I learnt a lot during my time on technical support – I have some call centre confessions to make, too).
Consider A Signal Amplifier
If your signal is always awful at home or work, it’s worth considering investing in a signal amplifier. While it’s not a cheap fix, this is a great way to ensure everyone in the vicinity can benefit from improved mobile phone service. Many bars and cafes will opt to install them, in the hope customers will stay longer, and spend more money. If you live in an apartment block, have a chat with your neighbours or landlord to see if they’d like to contribute towards the cost of installing one.
Use Wifi Where Possible
If your mobile service is lost temporarily, you can always connect to wifi and make audio calls via Facebook, WhatsApp and other service providers. You can also use Wifi to make video calls and send text messages via messenger services. If you’re at home, many modern phones will automatically switch to wifi if your signal drops while you’re making a call or sending a message. Isn’t technology brilliant!
Upgrade Your Phone
Speaking of modern phones, if your handset is getting a little old, it may be worth upgrading. Check the mobile coverage with your mobile service provider to see what level of service you should have. If it’s 5G and you’re using a phone that’s 10+ years old, it’s probably going to struggle to keep a 3G connection. Speak to your mobile phone network – even if you’re on a pay & go plan as many will offer you a discount to keep you on their network.
Something else worth trying is putting your SIM card in another phone to see if that helps. If your signal is better, you know the issue is your own mobile phone. If that doesn’t help, phone your service provider as your SIM card may be faulty. They should be willing to send you out a replacement SIM card free of charge, if they agree the sim sounds like the issue.
Consider Switching Networks
If you’ve tried everything above and still don’t have a decent signal, it may be time to switch networks. Don’t worry though – you can keep your existing number! If you want to switch and keep your existing phone number, decide which network you want to move to, and then get a SIM card on the tariff you want.
Then, from the number you want to keep, text ‘PAC’ to 65075 to begin the process. Your provider will reply by text within a minute. They will send you your switching code, called a ‘PAC’, which will be valid for 30 days. You then contact the network you’re moving your number to, and they’ll tell you when the move will happen. It usually happens within 48 hours, and you’ll lose service on your old SIM card, then your number will usually move to your new SIM card within an hour.
Finally, let me know in the comments if you know of any other ways to improve your mobile phone signal.
