Telecommunications

Cell Phones

Singapore has one of the highest percentages of cell phone (known locally as ‘handphone’) ownership in the world. Mobile services operate on standard GSM 900 and GSM 1800 networks. Cell phones are everywhere in Singapore, and they are used for everything from paying bills, to confirming appointments to receiving information updates. 

NYU Tisch School of the Arts Asia recommends that students arrange to have a cell phone while living in Singapore. There are several options available to students, including both prepaid and subscription plans. The three major service providers are SingTel, MobileOne, and StarHub.

Telephones

Singapore’s country code is 65. All phone numbers are eight digits long. Toll-free numbers begin with 1800 and are followed by seven or eight digits. Phone cards are the most cost-effective means of making international calls. You may purchase phone cards at the airport, upon arrival, at any ‘Singpost’ local post office, or at various convenience stores, including 7-11.

Internet

Singapore is also one of the most wired cities in the world, and Internet access is widely available.  Wireless hotspots exist throughout the city, internet cafes are abundant, and most apartments can be wired for high speed internet.  StarHub is the major internet provider in Singapore.