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?
The main difference between "local" and "long distance" phone service is the geographical area that the service covers. "Local" phone service typically covers a smaller area, such as a city or town, while "long distance" phone service covers a larger area, such as multiple cities or states.
"Local" phone calls are typically charged at a flat rate, while "long distance" calls may be charged based on the distance between the calling and receiving parties. Additionally, long distance calls may also have per-minute charges or be included in a specific calling plan.
Yes, you can make a "local" call from a "long distance" phone number. The location of the phone number does not affect the type of call that can be made. The type of call is determined by the area code and the location of the receiving party.
The distance between the calling and receiving parties, as well as the area codes of the two parties, are the main factors that determine if a call is considered "local" or "long distance." Additionally, phone service providers may have specific definitions and boundaries for what they consider to be "local" and "long distance" calls.
It depends on your phone service provider and your calling habits. Some providers may offer a single plan that includes both "local" and "long distance" calls, while others may have separate plans for each type of call. If you frequently make long distance calls, it may be beneficial to choose a plan that includes those calls at a discounted rate.