Method and system to enable multiple virtual numbers across different mobile networks
Disclosed is a system and method for enabling a subscriber who has multiple virtual or physical SIM identities across several networks to make and receive calls and messages on a single handset at the same time. Key features of the disclosure is the setup and management of multiple virtual IMSIs and MSISDNs, from different networks, or from the same network but different countries or regions, which exist in one or more servers which are able to manage inbound and outbound calls and messages enabling a subscriber to manage multiple identities without the need to swap or replace SIM cards.
1. A method for enabling a subscriber having multiple accounts with multiple network providers to obtain the lowest price for an outbound call, the method comprising:
receiving a request from a subscriber to make an outbound call, wherein the request is received at a system server of a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) from a mobile station associated with a Mobile Station Integrated Services Digital Network (MSISDN), wherein the system server is connected to at least two network operators located in the same country;
determining which network operator will provide the lowest price for the outbound call;
assigning a virtual MSISDN to the outbound call by the system server, wherein the virtual MSISDN is associated with an account of the network operator providing the lowest price;
routing the outbound call through the network operator providing the lowest price;
receiving a first request at the system server to enter a shared mode, wherein the first request is received from the mobile station comprising a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM), wherein the SIM is associated with a first subscriber; wherein the first request is received prior to the request from the subscriber to make an outbound call;
transmitting a second request for an access string from the wireless telecommunications network to the mobile station;
receiving and authenticating the access string at the system server, wherein the access string is associated with a second subscriber; and
enabling billing to the second subscriber for charges incurred by usage of the mobile station while in the shared mode and while using the SIM associated with the first subscriber.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the system server automatically selects the network operator providing the lowest price.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein a subscriber manually selects the network operator providing the lowest price using the mobile station.
4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising sending an offer from the system server to the mobile station, the offer allowing the subscriber to purchase a new virtual MSISDN from any of the at least two network providers with whom the subscriber does not have an existing account.
5. The method of claim 4 , further comprising purchasing the new virtual MSISDN in real time.
6. The method of claim 4 , further comprising sending the offer as a SMS message.
7. The method of claim 4 , further comprising managing the account balances of the various accounts to ensure that none of the accounts are stopped or recycled due to inactivity.