‘All Ncell numbers are eligible to receive A2P messages"

KATHMANDU, AUGUST 14:  Ncell has said that all its numbers/customers are eligible to receive every Application to Person (A2P) message one-time passwords (OTPs), short message services (SMSes), and other notifications, irrespective of shortcodes or service providers.

Issuing a press communique today, the private telecom service provider stated so.  The A2P messages are especially important for the renowned government bodies that require customer numbers as part of their KYC requirements or maintain customer databases to ensure efficient and timely communication about their services/important notices etc. to the Nepali citizens, according to the company.

As the use of digital services continues to grow, customers often receive such messages from various service providers, including government bodies, semi-government agencies, banks and financial institutions (BFIs), private sector organizations, and global platforms like Google and Facebook.

“We have no issues with A2P messages or notifications delivery in any number range. The increasing flow of A2P messages every year is a positive indicator of the growing digitalization, ensuring that our end users remain Always On,” the communique quoted Umair Mohsin, Chief Commercial Officer of Ncell as saying. “Some initial issues were observed with our 970 number range however, we re-iterate that those have been resolved already with prompt understanding from various major service providers. For example, Ncell customers get notifications/OTPs from the Inland Revenue Department (IRD), Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA), BFIs, and social media platforms.”

Clarifying misconceptions about SMSes, OPTs, and notifications delivery, Ncell stated that all Ncell mobile numbers are eligible to receive such messages within the country and outside on international roaming.

The company also urged other short-code owners and service providers to include the new 970 number range in their system. Ncell began issuing new mobile numbers starting with this new number range last year to better serve its customers.

"There may be some short-code operators or service providers who are unaware of our new 970 range, so we sincerely request them to update their systems to support these numbers. All the Ncell number series is also accessible for incoming local and international calls as well," Mohsin reportedly added. 

According to the company, customers using the 970 range can personalise their mobile numbers with a Sadhain ON special number by selecting the last six digits after the initial 9705. This allows them an opportunity to avail numbers of their choice for themselves or their loved ones.