The process of moving a traditional home telephone number to a mobile device is known as porting. This allows individuals to maintain their existing phone number while transitioning from a landline service to a cellular service. For example, a user discontinuing their home phone service can, through this process, continue receiving calls on their mobile phone at the same number.
Retaining a familiar number offers several advantages. It prevents the need to update contacts across various platforms and inform acquaintances of a new number. Historically, number portability was introduced to foster competition among telecommunication providers, empowering consumers to switch services without losing their established identity. The ability to keep the same number can simplify communication and avoid potential disruptions in personal and professional networks.