The E.164 format is an internationally recognized standard for telephone numbers, designed to ensure the uniqueness and proper routing of phone calls, SMS, and MMS messages across the global telecommunication network. This format specifies a consistent structure for international phone numbers, making it easier for devices on the public switched telephone network (PSTN) to handle communication accurately.
Parts in E.164 Format:
Country Code: The E.164 format starts with a plus sign (+) followed by the country code. For Australia, the country code is 61. So, the format begins as "+61."
Mobile Number: Following the country code, the Australian mobile number is appended without any spaces, hyphens, or parentheses. The mobile number consists of 10 digits, including the area code (typically starting with '04'). For instance, if the mobile number is 0412-345-678, the complete E.164 format will be "+61412345678."
Optional Plus Sign: The plus sign (+) at the beginning is optional, especially when dealing with Tall Bob platforms, APIs, or related integrations. In such cases, the plus sign can be omitted, and the number will be represented as "61412345678."
By following the E.164 format, major telephone carriers worldwide can effectively route international calls, SMS, and MMS messages, guaranteeing smooth and efficient communication while eliminating the possibility of message loss or misdirection.