In plain English
This is a stand-in mobile number used only for a short period. A customer is given it while their usual mobile number is moving from one service provider to another.
In context
Here, "temporary number" identifies the limited-time mobile number assigned to the customer before the transfer of their existing number between service providers is complete.
- Situation
- Porting numbers, activating SIM or eSIM, replacing devices, and changing account details
- What it communicates
- identifies the interim number available before transfer completion
Meaning limits
The term alone does not say when the transfer will finish or how long the limited-time number will remain in place.
Examples
“While her existing mobile number was being transferred to another service provider, she used the temporary number her new provider had given her for calls and texts.”
“Until the transfer is complete, call her on the temporary number.”