In the Philippines, mobile numbers are more than just a series of digits they’re coded identifiers that reveal which telecommunications network you’re connected to. For anyone who’s encountered a phone number starting with 0985, a common question arises: “0985 What Network?” The answer is straightforward yet comes with nuances worth understanding. The 0985 prefix belongs to either Smart Communications or its subsidiary Talk ‘n Text (TNT), both operating under the PLDT-Smart telecommunications umbrella.
This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about the 0985 prefix from its network association to practical applications and troubleshooting. Whether you’re trying to identify a contact’s network, understand promotional offers, or navigate the complexities of mobile number portability, this article provides the definitive resource for 0985 numbers in the Philippines.
Understanding Mobile Number Prefixes in the Philippines
The Evolution of Philippine Mobile Numbering
The Philippine mobile numbering system has undergone significant changes over the years. Prior to 2019, mobile numbers in the country followed a 10-digit format: a 4-digit network prefix followed by a 7-digit subscriber number. However, to accommodate the growing demand for mobile services, the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) implemented a mandatory 11-digit mobile numbering plan in October 2019.
Under this system, mobile numbers now begin with “0” followed by a network identifier (like “985”) and then the subscriber’s 7-digit number. This standardization has made it easier to identify which network a particular number belongs to, simply by looking at its prefix.
Local vs. International Formats
When dealing with Philippine mobile numbers, you’ll encounter two common formats:
- Local format: Begins with “0” (e.g., 0985-XXX-XXXX)
- International format: Begins with the country code “63” followed by the network code without the leading zero (e.g., +63985-XXX-XXXX)
The “0985” prefix in local format corresponds to “63985” in international format. This distinction is important when making international calls or when setting up mobile banking and other services that might require your phone number in international format.
0985: Which Network Does It Belong To?
Definitive Network Association
The 0985 prefix is officially assigned to Smart Communications, one of the Philippines’ largest telecommunications companies. By extension, this prefix is also used by Talk ‘n Text (TNT), which operates as a subsidiary brand under Smart Communications.
This dual association often creates confusion among users who might wonder whether their 0985 number is specifically a Smart or TNT line. The technical answer is that the infrastructure and network belong to Smart Communications, but the service branding and specific offerings depend on the SIM card type activated for that number.
Verification Methods
If you’re unsure whether an 0985 number is registered under Smart or TNT, there are several reliable ways to verify:
- Check the SIM packaging: Original SIM packaging will clearly indicate whether it’s a Smart or TNT SIM card.
- Dial *123#: Both Smart and TNT users can dial this USSD code to access their respective service menus, which will confirm the network provider.
- Contact customer service: Dial 7888 for Smart or 808 for TNT from your mobile phone to reach customer service representatives who can confirm your network affiliation.
- Check loaded promos: The types of promos available to your number can indicate whether you’re using a Smart or TNT service.
Common Misconceptions
A prevalent misconception is that 0985 might belong to Globe Telecom or other providers. This confusion sometimes arises because of mobile number portability (which we’ll discuss later) or simply due to the multiple prefixes used by different networks.
Another misconception is that all TNT numbers have different prefixes from Smart. In reality, both brands share several prefixes, including 0985, with the distinction being made at the service level rather than the prefix level.
Smart Communications: Behind the 0985 Prefix
Company Background
Smart Communications, established in 1991, has grown to become one of the Philippines’ telecommunications giants. As a wholly-owned subsidiary of PLDT (Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company), Smart has consistently been at the forefront of mobile technology innovation in the country.
According to data from the NTC, Smart Communications serves approximately 69.8 million subscribers as of 2023, including both Smart and TNT users. This massive subscriber base requires multiple number prefixes to accommodate all users.
The Introduction of 0985
Smart Communications began using the 0985 prefix in the mid-2010s as part of its expansion of available mobile numbers. This allocation came during a period of significant subscriber growth, which necessitated the addition of new prefixes beyond the company’s traditional ones.
An industry insider at Smart Communications noted:
“The introduction of new prefixes like 0985 was strategic, allowing us to accommodate millions of new subscribers while maintaining clear network identification. It’s part of our commitment to ensuring service availability for all Filipinos.”
Other Smart Communications Prefixes
Smart Communications utilizes numerous prefixes beyond 0985. Some of the most common ones include:
| Prefix | Network |
| 0907 | Smart |
| 0908 | Smart |
| 0918 | Smart |
| 0919 | Smart |
| 0920 | Smart |
| 0921 | Smart |
| 0928 | Smart |
| 0929 | Smart |
| 0947 | Smart |
| 0949 | Smart |
| 0951 | Smart |
| 0961 | Smart |
| 0998 | Smart |
| 0999 | Smart |
This extensive list demonstrates the scale of Smart’s operations and the need for multiple prefixes to serve its vast customer base.
Talk’n Text (TNT): Connection to 0985
The Smart-TNT Relationship
Talk ‘n Text, commonly known as TNT, was launched in 2001 as Smart Communications’ value brand. While Smart positions itself as a premium service provider with comprehensive postpaid and prepaid offerings, TNT targets the budget-conscious segment with affordable prepaid services.
Despite operating as distinct brands with different marketing strategies and service plans, both Smart and TNT utilize the same network infrastructure. This shared infrastructure explains why both brands use common prefixes, including 0985.
Prefix Sharing Between Smart and TNT
The sharing of the 0985 prefix between Smart and TNT is not unique it’s part of a broader strategy of resource allocation within the PLDT-Smart group. When purchasing a new SIM card with an 0985 prefix, the distinction between Smart and TNT is made by the specific SIM card type rather than the number itself.
The NTC has confirmed that prefix ownership is assigned to the parent company (Smart Communications), which then determines how to allocate those numbers across its brands. This approach optimizes number resource utilization while allowing for distinctive brand positioning.
Distinguishing Between Smart and TNT 0985 Users
While the prefix alone cannot definitively tell you whether an 0985 number belongs to a Smart or TNT subscriber, there are several distinguishing features:
- Service menus: When dialing *123#, Smart and TNT users see different service menus.
- Default prepaid load: TNT loads are typically denominated in “TNT” or “TnT” when checked via *214#.
- Promotional offers: Smart and TNT users receive different promotional texts and offers.
- Billing statements: For rare postpaid 0985 numbers, billing statements will clearly indicate Smart as the provider (TNT doesn’t offer postpaid plans).
Practical Applications of Knowing Your Network
Impact on Promotional Offers
Knowing whether an 0985 number is under Smart or TNT has direct implications for the promotions and packages available to users. Both networks offer distinct promotional campaigns with different:
- Data allocations
- Call and text packages
- Validity periods
- Pricing structures
For example, TNT’s “Sulit Card” offers differ significantly from Smart’s “Magic Data” offerings, even though both might be available to 0985 users depending on their specific registration.
Load Transfers and Banking Transactions
Mobile banking apps and electronic payment platforms in the Philippines typically require users to specify the recipient’s network when sending load (prepaid credits) or making certain transactions. For 0985 numbers, users can select either Smart or TNT depending on the recipient’s specific registration.
According to data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), mobile transactions increased by 47% in 2022, highlighting the growing importance of accurate network identification for financial transactions.
For 0985 numbers specifically, users should confirm with recipients whether their number is registered under Smart or TNT before initiating load transfers to ensure successful transactions.
Network-Specific Features
Both Smart and TNT offer network-specific features that are available to their respective 0985 users:
Smart-specific features for 0985:
- Smart Music subscription options
- Smart Giga Video streaming packages
- Smart Signature postpaid plans (for eligible numbers)
- International roaming services
TNT-specific features for 0985:
- TNT Pantawid services
- TNT Babad Apps data packages
- TNT SurfSaya promos
- TNT All Net calls and texts packages
Network Portability and the Future of 0985 Numbers
Mobile Number Portability Act
The Philippines implemented the Mobile Number Portability Act (Republic Act No. 11202) in September 2021, allowing subscribers to keep their mobile numbers when switching between networks. This landmark legislation has significant implications for 0985 and other prefixes.
Under this system, an 0985 number that originally belonged to Smart/TNT can now potentially be used with Globe, DITO, or other telecommunications providers. This development has added a layer of complexity to prefix-based network identification.
According to the latest data from the Telecommunications Connectivity Inc. (TCI), approximately 3.8 million Filipinos had ported their numbers across networks by the end of 2023, representing about 2.5% of all mobile subscribers in the country.
Tracking Ported 0985 Numbers
When an 0985 number has been ported to another network, the original prefix no longer reliably indicates the current network provider. For ported numbers, the best ways to identify the current network include:
- Mobile Number Portability Service (MNPS): The NTC has established a central database that allows users to check if a number has been ported. This service can be accessed through various channels, including telco websites and apps.
- Network identification apps: Third-party applications can identify the current network of any Philippine mobile number, including ported 0985 numbers.
- Direct confirmation: Simply asking the number owner about their current network provider remains the most reliable method.
The Future of Network Identification
As mobile number portability becomes more widespread, the Philippine telecommunications industry is gradually transitioning away from prefix-based network identification. Future systems may rely more heavily on central databases and real-time checks rather than memorizing prefix associations.
A telecommunications analyst from the University of the Philippines noted:
“The implementation of mobile number portability marks a significant shift in how we identify networks in the Philippines. While prefixes like 0985 will remain important for number allocation, their role in identifying the current service provider will diminish over time.”
Troubleshooting 0985 Number Issues
Common Connectivity Problems
Users of 0985 numbers occasionally report specific connectivity issues that may be related to network configuration or coverage. Some frequently reported issues include:
- Signal fluctuations: Some 0985 users report inconsistent signal strength, particularly in transitional coverage areas.
- Registration delays: New 0985 SIM cards sometimes experience delays in network registration upon first activation.
- Data connectivity issues: Occasional challenges with APN settings affecting data connectivity for some 0985 users.
- Promotional subscription failures: Difficulty in subscribing to certain network promotions, particularly during high-traffic periods.
Smart/TNT Customer Service Options
For users experiencing issues with their 0985 numbers, both Smart and TNT offer dedicated customer support channels:
Smart Communications support:
- Hotline: 7888 (from Smart/TNT phones) or (02) 8-888-7888
- Email: customercare@smart.com.ph
- Social media: Facebook and Twitter (@SmartCares)
- Smart Stores nationwide
TNT support:
- Hotline: 808 (from TNT phones)
- Email: talk@tnt.com.ph
- Social media: Facebook (@TNTPhilippines)
- Authorized TNT retailers
When contacting customer support, 0985 users should have the following information ready:
- Complete 11-digit mobile number
- SIM card serial number (if available)
- Specific details about the issue being experienced
- Account information for postpaid subscribers
Self-Help Resources
For common issues, both Smart and TNT offer several self-help resources for 0985 users:
- Network status checkers: Both providers offer online tools to check network status in specific areas.
- Troubleshooting guides: Downloadable PDF guides for resolving common connectivity issues.
- APN settings: Specific configuration instructions for data connectivity problems.
- USSD codes: Special codes that can be dialed to resolve specific issues or check account status:
- *123# – Main menu for services
- *143# – Balance inquiry
- *214# – Load balance check
- *888# – Data usage inquiry
Conclusion
The 0985 prefix firmly belongs to the Smart Communications network umbrella, serving both Smart and Talk ‘n Text subscribers throughout the Philippines. While the distinction between Smart and TNT services exists at the brand level rather than the prefix level, understanding which specific service an 0985 number is registered to can have practical implications for promotions, loading, and customer service.
As the Philippines continues to implement mobile number portability, the relationship between prefixes and networks will evolve. However, for the foreseeable future, new 0985 numbers will continue to be issued exclusively by Smart Communications, either under the Smart or TNT brands.
For consumers, business users, and anyone dealing with Philippine mobile numbers, recognizing that 0985 belongs to the Smart/TNT ecosystem provides valuable context for communications, transactions, and service expectations.
FAQs
Is 0985 a Smart or Globe number?
0985 is a Smart Communications prefix, not Globe. It’s used by both Smart and its subsidiary Talk ‘n Text (TNT). However, with the implementation of mobile number portability, some 0985 numbers may have been ported to Globe or other networks while retaining their original prefix.
Can I transfer my 0985 number to another network?
Yes, under the Mobile Number Portability Act of 2019 (implemented in 2021), you can transfer your 0985 number to Globe, DITO, or other Philippine networks while retaining the same 11-digit number. The process is free for the first transfer, with potential charges for subsequent transfers within a 60-day period.
How can I verify if my 0985 number is registered to Smart or TNT?
The simplest way is to dial *123# from your phone. The menu that appears will be specific to either Smart or TNT. Alternatively, you can check your SIM packaging, contact customer service (7888 for Smart, 808 for TNT), or review the types of promotional offers you receive.
Do Smart and TNT offer different services for 0985 numbers?
Yes, despite sharing the same network infrastructure, Smart and TNT offer different promotional packages, pricing structures, and value-added services for their respective 0985 users. Smart generally positions itself as a premium brand with more comprehensive offerings, while TNT targets budget-conscious consumers with economical packages.
What other prefixes belong to Smart Communications?
Smart Communications manages numerous prefixes beyond 0985, including 0907, 0908, 0918, 0919, 0920, 0921, 0928, 0929, 0947, 0949, 0951, 0961, 0998, and 0999. These prefixes are used across both Smart and TNT brands, with the specific brand determined by the SIM card type rather than the prefix itself.
James Henry – Writer at Lotus Magazine, providing expert mobile network guides with clarity and precision.
