Continuing advances in technology and expansions of its network mean that Verizon Wireless cell phone roaming areas are shrinking constantly, so the company recommends updating your phone’s “preferred roaming list,” or PRL, every few weeks.
The company says it can lead to longer battery life, fewer dropped or blocked calls, clearer connections in most areas, and ability to connect to the digital network in more parts of the country.
Here’s how to update your PRL:
- Turn on your phone within any Verizon Wireless digital service area.
- Dial *228 and then press SEND (the airtime is free).
- When prompted, press option 2 to update your phone’s roaming capabilities
(the update may take up to 2 minutes). - Once completed, a confirmation message will appear to inform you that your phone has been re-programmed with the new PRL.
More information, including a chart that describes roaming signals on your phone, can be found here.