In Ireland, mobile phone numbers are differentiated by specific prefixes, but these are also attributed to various mobile network operators. The system of numbering functions by identifying how calls can be routed correctly within the nation, including those to mobile phones. Each of these operators has a number of prefixes commencing with 08, followed by one or two other digits that denote the particular network.
Common Mobile Number Prefixes in Ireland
08x Prefixes: Mobile numbers in Ireland are Ireland Phone Number Data usually prefixed with 08 to which, generally one or two digits would further detail which network it belongs to. Some of the most common prefixes for mobile numbers in Ireland include the following:
083: Vodafone
085: Three (3)
087: Eir
089: Tesco Mobile
081: Lycamobile
086: Vodafone; this code is also in use by other Mobile Virtual Network Operators
087: Eir; Ireland's major mobile operator
These are now followed by 7 digits to complete the number, hence making the full mobile phone number 10 digits, inclusive of its prefix.
Mobile Virtual Network Operators
Some of the Irish mobile network providers do not own their own infrastructure but rent it from one of the majors. These are known as MVNOs, or Mobile Virtual Network Operators, and their numbers will also start with one of the major operator's prefix. For example:
085: This is used by Three for its MVNOs.
086: This is a Vodafone prefix, although it is possible that some smaller operators may use this also.
Dialing Mobile Numbers
When dialing an Irish mobile number within Ireland, only the prefix and the local number are utilized. For example, a number starting with 087 123 4567 is a mobile number. For calls outside Ireland, the called party first dials the international dialing code +353, the country code of Ireland, followed by the prefix and the local number. Therefore, using the above example, in international dialing format the number becomes +353 87 123 4567.
Overview: Irish mobile phone numbers are normally prefixed with the access code 08, behind which comes an identifying number for the network operator. The most well-known are the prefixes 083 for Vodafone, 085 for Three, 087 for Eir, and 089 for Tesco Mobile, among others. These numbers are important for routing to correct networks when dialing from within Ireland or abroad.