How does the "fusion" phone differ from a standard mobile?

The phone will operate on two different networks. When you are on the move it will use the Vodafone mobile network, but within your home it will automatically switch to BT’s fixed-line network. In this mode it will behave like a cordless landline telephone.

What happens if I leave home mid-way through a phone call?

The phone will automatically switch from the fixed-line to the mobile network without interrupting the call.

Will this new service save me money?

You will be charged two different rates, one for calls made over the mobile network and another for calls made in the home. Inside the home, the standard BT landline rates will apply (5.5p for up to an hour at evenings or weekends and 3p per minute during peak times). For calls using the mobile network, BT has packages offering either 100 minutes of calls to any network for £9.99 per month or 200 minutes for £14.99. Additional call time will cost 10p per minute for calls to Vodafone users and 30p per minute for calls to other networks, at any time of the day.

What are the costs other than call charges?

You will need a BT landline (£10.50 per month) and BT broadband connection (from £17.99 per month, depending on the speed of the connection).

What will it cost for other phone users to call a BT Fusion number?

If you phone somebody who uses the new system you will be charged as if you were calling a mobile phone. With most phone packages, this is more expensive than calling a landline.

Will I be able to use my current mobile phone with the service?

No. You will need a new handset that is capable of switching between the two networks. The first phone to offer this facility is the Motorola v560, which will be provided free to people who sign up for the service.

What other equipment will I need?

You will need a base station that allows the phone to access the fixed-line network. This device, called a BT Hub, will be provided free of charge and will also allow other wireless-enabled products, such as computers, games consoles and printers, to connect to the internet.

Can my family have more than one handset?

Yes, the system supports up to three handsets per household, and all three can be used at the same time. This is because the system uses a broadband connection rather than the traditional phone-line, and can therefore carry more data simultaneously.

Will I be able to make landline calls from someone else’s house using my phone?

Yes. You will be able to enter a PIN that allows you to make calls at landline rates from another customer’s home. Calls will be charged to the owner of the phone, not the phone line.

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