What Is Carrier Billing and How Does It Work

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Carrier billing is a payment method that allows users to charge purchases directly to their mobile phone bill. This method is also known as "billed as the user" or "mobile billing".

It's a convenient option for users who don't have a credit or debit card, or prefer not to share their financial information online.

Benefits of Carrier Billing

Carrier billing offers several benefits that make it an attractive payment method for many users. One of the main advantages is convenience, as it eliminates the need for credit cards or other payment methods.

By using carrier billing, users can make purchases directly through their mobile phone bills, making it a hassle-free experience. This is particularly useful for those who may not have a credit card or bank account.

Carrier billing also provides accessibility to users who may not have had the opportunity to participate in digital transactions otherwise. It's a game-changer for those who may not have access to traditional payment methods.

The security aspect of carrier billing is also a significant benefit, as users don't need to share their sensitive financial information during the payment process. This adds an extra layer of protection for users' personal and financial data.

For another approach, see: Shop Pay Payment Methods

How Carrier Billing Works

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Carrier billing is a convenient way to pay for digital goods and services, and it's surprisingly easy to use. Here's how it works:

To start, you'll need to select carrier billing as your payment method when making a purchase on a website or mobile app. This is usually done during the checkout process.

You'll be asked to provide your mobile phone number, which is then sent to the payment service provider. They'll send a verification code or request to your mobile device for authentication.

Once you confirm the transaction, the purchase amount will be added to your mobile phone bill or deducted from your prepaid balance, depending on your mobile carrier's billing system. This is a straightforward process that happens automatically.

You'll receive a confirmation via SMS message, letting you know that the transaction has been successful. This is a great way to keep track of your purchases and stay organized.

Intriguing read: Amazon Transaction Pay

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The transaction details, including the merchant name and purchase amount, will be included in your monthly mobile phone bill or displayed in your prepaid account statement. This makes it easy to see what you've spent your money on.

Here's a step-by-step breakdown of the carrier billing process:

  1. User selects carrier billing as the payment method: This is the first step in using carrier billing.
  2. Authorization and verification: The payment service provider sends a verification code or request to your mobile device for authentication.
  3. Confirmation and billing: Once you confirm the transaction, the purchase amount is added to your mobile phone bill or deducted from your prepaid balance.
  4. Billing statement: The transaction details are included in your monthly mobile phone bill or displayed in your prepaid account statement.

Checkout and Payment Options

Direct Carrier Billing is a one-click payment method that makes online transactions a breeze. You simply enter your mobile phone number and confirm the payment, and the transaction is made.

The process is seamless, with a reduced number of steps required to complete a transaction. This means you can focus on what matters most – enjoying your digital content.

You can buy a wide range of digital content using Direct Carrier Billing, including mobile games, music streaming services, and video on demand (VOD) services. New opportunities are also emerging as regulations evolve.

Some popular websites that accept carrier billing include Facebook Games Marketplace, Microsoft Marketplace, and Spotify. You can also use carrier billing to subscribe to YouTube TV and enjoy a vast collection of channels and entertainment options.

For more insights, see: Direct Carrier Billing

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Here are some websites that accept carrier billing:

  1. Facebook Games Marketplace: Offers a wide range of games for users to play, buy, or sell.
  2. Microsoft Marketplace: Offers approximately 3800 products in its catalog, including Windows, Xbox, and Microsoft 365 products.
  3. Spotify: A popular music streaming service with a vast collection of music, podcasts, and playlists.
  4. YouTube TV: A real-time playback service offering a wide range of channels, series, and entertainment options.
  5. Mobile Giving Foundation: Facilitates digital fundraising through mobile telephony, allowing users to donate to foundations or causes.

Overall, Direct Carrier Billing provides a simplified online payment experience that's quick and easy to use.

Conversion and Success

77% of conversions come from Carrier Billing, making it a highly effective payment solution.

Direct Carrier Billing leads to a lower abandonment rate at point of purchase, making it a more convenient option for customers.

A one-click payment solution is exactly what it sounds like - a seamless and secure way to access digital services.

This convenience has the potential to increase conversion rates, as mentioned in the article.

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Increased Conversions

Direct Carrier Billing leads to lower abandonment rate at point of purchase. Since the payment is convenient and secure, it has the potential to increase the conversion rates.

77% of users opt for Carrier Billing over other payment methods, indicating a strong preference for this approach.

The conversion rate for Carrier Billing is significantly higher than Credit Card, which only sees a 10% conversion rate.

A one-click payment solution like Direct Carrier Billing provides immediate access to the service, making it a seamless experience for users.

Tips for New Customers

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Credit: pexels.com, Laptop and smartphone showcasing online shopping and mobile payment setup on desk.

As you start your journey with carrier billing, you might encounter some initial hiccups. One key thing to check is that you're connected to your carrier network, especially if you're using carrier billing on YouTube for the first time.

To troubleshoot any issues, try using the YouTube app rather than a mobile browser or computer. This might make a big difference in your experience.

You might also want to try turning your device off, waiting a few seconds, and then turning it back on. This simple step can often resolve connectivity issues and get you back on track.

Here are some specific steps to follow:

  • Ensure you're connected to your carrier network, especially if you're using carrier billing on YouTube for the first time.
  • Use the YouTube app instead of a mobile browser or computer.
  • Try turning your device off, waiting a few seconds, and then turning it back on.

By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to a smooth carrier billing experience.

Carrier Billing Companies

Bango.net Limited was founded in 1999 in Cambridge, United Kingdom, and specializes in mobile commerce. They offer direct carrier billing and app store carrier billing services.

Boku Inc. was founded in 2008 in San Francisco, California, and enables direct carrier billing. This allows consumers to charge digital purchases directly to their mobile phone bills.

Adpay.net.in was founded in 2006 in Chennai, India, and specializes in mobile payments and value-added services. They provide innovative solutions like direct carrier billing and mobile commerce platforms.

Main Companies

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The main companies involved in the direct carrier billing market are quite diverse.

Telecom Operators are key players in this market, as they provide the necessary infrastructure for carrier billing to work.

Merchants of goods and services also play a crucial role, as they are the ones who benefit from the increased sales and revenue generated through carrier billing.

Master Aggregators and Aggregators are also important companies, as they act as intermediaries between the telecom operators and the merchants.

Users, or consumers, are also part of the picture, as they are the ones who make purchases using carrier billing.

6 Companies Leverage Network Power

Bango.net Limited, founded in 1999, is headquartered in Cambridge, United Kingdom, and specializes in mobile commerce, offering direct carrier billing and app store carrier billing services.

Bango enables seamless mobile payments, allowing users to purchase digital content and services easily and securely through their mobile phone bills.

Boku Inc., founded in 2008, is headquartered in San Francisco, California, and specializes in mobile payments, enabling direct carrier billing that allows consumers to charge digital purchases directly to their mobile phone bills.

Laptop and smartphone display facilitating online shopping using mobile payment technology.
Credit: pexels.com, Laptop and smartphone display facilitating online shopping using mobile payment technology.

Adpay.net.in, founded in 2006, is headquartered in Chennai, India, and specializes in mobile payments and value-added services, providing innovative solutions like direct carrier billing and mobile commerce platforms.

These companies focus on enhancing digital transactions, making it easier for users to pay for services and content through their mobile devices.

By leveraging the power of networks, these companies are able to facilitate seamless and secure transactions for users worldwide.

Carrier Billing Overview

Carrier billing is a payment method that allows users to make purchases or subscriptions without entering their credit card information. It's a convenient and secure way to make transactions.

Carrier billing works by partnering with mobile operators to enable users to charge purchases to their phone bill. This method is widely accepted and used by many online services.

Users can make purchases with a single click, eliminating the need to enter payment details.

What Is Billing?

Carrier billing is an online payment method that allows users to make purchases and pay for digital goods and services by charging the payment directly to their mobile phone bill.

A Person Using Mobile Phone to Pay Cashless
Credit: pexels.com, A Person Using Mobile Phone to Pay Cashless

It eliminates the need for traditional payment methods like credit cards or bank accounts, making it a convenient and accessible option for users.

This method deducts the payment from the user's prepaid balance or charges it to their mobile phone bill, providing a seamless and hassle-free experience.

Carrier billing is a great option for those who want to avoid entering payment information or managing multiple accounts, as it streamlines the payment process.

It's a convenient option for users who want to make purchases on-the-go without the need for a credit card or bank account.

See what others are reading: Find Paypal Option on Shop Pay Checkout

Solution Overview

We remit payment to the carriers after you submit the grand total to us. This streamlined process eliminates the need for you to manage multiple transactions.

Invoices are processed, which helps keep your financial records up to date. This also allows you to stay on top of your expenses.

Audit and allocation reports are delivered, giving you a clear view of your financial activity. This helps you identify any discrepancies or areas for improvement.

Data discrepancies between our system and the carriers are corrected, ensuring accuracy and reliability. This helps prevent errors and ensures seamless communication.

Related reading: Pc Financial Credit Card

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use carrier billing for?

You can use carrier billing to purchase digital goods and services like mobile apps, music, movies, and eBooks. This convenient payment method allows you to buy what you want with just a few taps.

Does Verizon still do carrier billing?

No, Verizon discontinued Carrier Billing as of March 22, 2024. You can still make charitable donations through Verizon when you pay your mobile bill, but through alternative methods.

Joan Lowe-Schiller

Assigning Editor

Joan Lowe-Schiller serves as an Assigning Editor, overseeing a diverse range of architectural and design content. Her expertise lies in Brazilian architecture, a passion that has led to in-depth coverage of the region's innovative structures and cultural influences. Under her guidance, the publication has expanded its reach, offering readers a deeper understanding of the architectural landscape in Brazil.

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