Area code 044 replaces 01
Biel-Bienne, 13.03.2006 - Today, more than half the Swiss population are already dialling using the 044 area code. Area code 01 is being replaced by 044 for all telephone numbers in the Zurich region. In about a year, from the end of March 2007, it will only be possible to dial current 01 telephone numbers using the 044 code. An information brochure from the Federal Office of Communications, OFCOM, will be sent to subscribers in March or April with their telephone bill. OFCOM is also providing an electronic postcard on the internet, so that the subscribers concerned can inform others quickly and simply (www.bakom.admin.ch/044).
A survey carried out by the Federal Office of Communications shows that just over two-thirds of Swiss people know about the impending change concerning the 01 area code. Nationwide, more than half of those questioned indicated that they are dialling the 044 code. Additional surveys in the 044 area code region show that some 60% are already dialling 044.
By means of an insert sent out with telephone bills, OFCOM, in conjunction with the major telephone service providers, is informing subscribers of the change from the 01 code to 044. Holders of 01 numbers are being requested to inform their professional and personal contacts at home and abroad as soon as possible about the switch to the 044 code and to make the necessary adjustments, e.g. on printed matter, on the internet, on signs on buildings and vehicles or in databases. Information about the change concerning the 01 area code can be provided quickly and simply by means of an electronic postcard which OFCOM is making available on its website (www.bakom.admin.ch/044).
In just over a year, i.e. from the end of March 2007, it will no longer be possible to dial using the 01 code. Anyone who does this will hear a recorded message. OFCOM is therefore already requesting subscribers to dial using the new 044 code instead of 01.
Address for enquiries
Caroline Sauser, OFCOM press spokesperson, +41 32 327 55 50
Links
Publisher
Federal Office of Communications
http://www.ofcom.admin.ch
