message pickup from mexico

Hi ​@JerryG ,

Yes,  you can absolutely use WhatsApp (or similar internet apps) while abroad in places like Mexico, and this is one of the best ways to stay in touch without high roaming charges.

Here’s how it works:

• WhatsApp calls/messages use internet data (WiFi or mobile data), not your normal phone minutes
• So if you’re connected to hotel WiFi or free WiFi, it is effectively free to use
• You can also use it on a travel SIM or eSIM with data instead of roaming on your UK plan
 

Other ways to stay connected cheaply:

• Use WiFi Calling (if enabled on your device) to make/receive calls over WiFi
• Use apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, FaceTime Audio for calls and messages
• Switch off roaming to avoid accidental charges

If you use WhatsApp on mobile data while roaming, your network may still charge you for the data used. You won’t need to rely on expensive international callss. WhatsApp over WiFi or a travel data plan is usually the cheapest and easiest way to stay connected while in Mexico.

Lamiya

Hi Lamiya, thank you for the response but you don't mention how to do it. I've tried setting up the id message pickup number (full mobile number) on WhatsApp but it only allowed me to "invite" the number as you would with a person but it would need to be ok'd by id which I can't see happening so can you tell me how to do it? Thanks in advance. 

Hi ​@JerryG,

Thanks for coming back to us, and I apologise for the confusion caused, so I’ll try to clear things up. 

Unfortunately, it isn’t possible to link your iD Mobile voicemail or message pickup number to apps like WhatsApp. WhatsApp only works with real, active mobile numbers that can receive its own verification SMS or calls, it can’t be used to access your network voicemail or standard SMS messages.

What you were seeing when trying to “invite” the number is expected behaviour, as WhatsApp treats it like a normal contact rather than a service number, in order for WhatsApp to fully work, both you and the person that you are wanting to contact would need to have WhatsApp installed.

What you can do instead:

Voicemail:
You can access your voicemail from abroad by calling your voicemail as normal (this may incur roaming charges depending on your location and plan).
SMS messages:
You’ll still receive standard texts to your SIM while abroad (these are usually free to receive), but they won’t come through apps like WhatsApp.
Use WiFi apps to avoid costs:
For day-to-day messaging, using WhatsApp over WiFi is the best way to stay in touch without extra charges.

You can also purchase a roam beyond add-on, this would allow you to use your iD Mobile data, and you can read more on this by clicking here: https://www.idmobile.co.uk/help-and-support/international-and-roaming-charges.

I know it’s not quite the workaround you were hoping for, but hopefully that explains why it’s not working and what your options are instead.

If you need help checking roaming charges or options for your destination, just let us know.

Regards,

Gemma M

The iD Mobile Social Media Team