Truphone recently launched Local Anywhere. I think it’s pretty cool. It allows you to make calls at local rates by purchasing their international sim card, so it’ll be very convenient for frequent travellers. Not having to manage various SIMs and unlocking and searching and topping up would be great.

International SIM cards aren’t anything new, but worth re-visiting when an innovator decides to take a turn at it. However, I’m not too convinced by Truphone’s “local” pricing yet. I think it’s still a bit expensive. For example, if I were to use this for my upcoming trip to Siera Leone, I’d have to pay £1.80/min to call within the country.

In addition, the data rate is not appealing at all. I don’t know if 3G is good over there either. I don’t think Truphone at this time has a strong value proposition but it’s definitely on the right track to help people have more access to technology for cheaper. So I added it to my Guide on how to travel with iPhone.

They also have an iPhone app which is similar and compatible with Skype. The only advantage of this app over Skype is if it allowed VOIP calls over 3G, which it used to claim in its iPhone ads. It’s misleading. Actually it seems they don’t allow it through the app itself but through its Truphone Anywhere service (not to be confused with Truphone Local Anywhere)

I have never used the app mostly because I don’t have time and I’m pretty happy with what I have now. (People call me or I arrange a time to Skype-to-Skype).

If anyone uses it, please let me know how you find it!