Can someone explain how to place a collect call to the USA from an AIS mobile? I used to use the ATT operator, but they no longer offer this service. Been through the AIS website without much luck. Thank you.

No one??  Surely there must be a number I can call to get an English speaking operator to assist with a collect call.

If you have a SmartPhone connected to the Internet (WiFi/Mobile Data) then another option is to download one of the FREE calling apps that let you make FREE calls to phone numbers within the Continental US and Canada. 

 

While I rely on my Google Voice account to receive SMS Text and voicemail on my US number, I also have other calling apps that I use as backup when I need to make a quick call to the US, or give someone in the US a number to reach me (though you have to have Internet access and leave the calling app running for them to reach you).

I just spoke with AIS. They said I must use a land line to make a collect call. Too bad AT&T no longer supports this. 

 

I have MagicJack, but mobile data/internet is too slow here to use it. I suppose I can drive into town, and try it with a 4G connection.

You can get a pre-paid calling card here, most of which offer free local access/call-back and rates as low as 1 baht/min to the U.S.

Google Voice may be challenging to register for here in Thailand, requiring use of a VPN, and perhaps a US-based mobile capable of receiving an authorizing SMS? I think I signed up for both my GV numbers while in the U.S. for a trip, and have those connected via an OBI200 (supports up to 4 GV or other IP numbers); GV also rings through to multiple Android devices as well.

 

I also have a Talkatone 10-digits number, think you could sign up for that here? https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.talkatone.android&hl=en

 

But the OP mentions bandwidth issues (with his Mj) so not sure how applicable those might be?

 

A pre-paid calling card seems like the best option?

 

I think AT&T's free local access number here is 1-800-0001-33; not sure of you can get into the collect IVR system though? You could get an AT&T pre-paid account on-line, not sure about costs? Maybe 10 U.S. cents per minute?

Yes, the bandwidth here isn't quite enough for VOIP. This morning I drove to the next village, which has a 4g tower, and was able to make a Magic Jack call to my bank. Looks like that is what I will do if it is likely to be a long call. 

 

If I want to pay, I can call to the US with my DTAC phone for 2.5 baht a minute.

 

I spoke with the AT&T operator, and was told they no longer support collect calling from Thailand.

Interesting topic - struggling to recall the last time I had to make a collect call anywhere - it has to be 15 years at least.

In the era of cheap/free calls through VOIP and similar apps - I am curious as to why the OP needs to make a collect call in 2016?

As I said, the speed is not sufficient in my area for VOIP.