The distinction between "local" and "long distance" phone service is increasingly blurred due to advancements in technology and the variety of service providers. Local calls, traditionally transmitted over the local phone company's networks, can now involve multiple providers and technologies, such as VoIP and cellular networks. The classification of a call as long distance is determined by the local phone company's policies and regulatory approvals. This complexity challenges the traditional understanding of local versus long distance services.
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Long distance calls can also be transmitted only on the networks and equipment owned by the local phone company, it depends on what the phone company has decided is long distance and received approval to charge as long distance. With VoIP, cell phones etc... it all gets very blurry.Stephen Tashi said:Does the distinction between "local" versus "long distance" phone service still have any basis in the equipment used to implement the service? Are "local" calls actually transmitted only on the networks and equipment owned by the local phone company?