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Critical Android Fault discovered on at least 33 Huawei models
We would like to emphasise that if people do wish to make a test call to 999, please hang it up as soon as you can see that it is dialling as we would not want the 999 service to be overwhelmed with calls.
Update February 11th 2021
The update to WeQ4U that we rush-released has reported that it has been called by the operating system on 999 calls on more Huawei models and Build Numbers. These are:
- Honor 8X JSN-L21 10.0.0.186(C432E5R1P3), 10.0.0.224(C432E5R3P2)
- Honor 10 Dual Sim COL-L29 10.0.0.177(C432E3R1P4)
- Honor View PCT-L29 10.1.0.227(C432E10R3P4)
- Honor 20 Lite HRY-LX1T 10.0.0.199(C431E5R1P7)
- Mate 10 Pro BLA-L09 10.0.0.159(C782E4R1P3)
- Mate 20 Pro LYA-L09 10.1.0.289(C432E7R1P5)
- Mate 20 Pro LYA-L29 10.1.0.288(C431E7R1P5), 10.1.0.298(C636E7R2P4)
- Mate 20 Pro LYA-AL00 10.1.0.163(C00E160R1P8)
- Mate 20X EVR-L29 10.1.0.247(C432E6R1P7)
- Mate 20X EVR-N29 10.1.0.219(C431E2R4P2)
- Mate 20 Lite SNE-LX1 10.0.0.245(C432E9R1P1)
- Mate 30 Pro LIO-L29 10.1.0.270(C432E6R8P1)
- Mate 30 Pro 5G LIO-AN00 11.0.0.145(C00E145R5P11)
- P20 EML-L29 10.0.0.161(C782E7R1P3)
- P20 Pro CLT-L09 10.0.0.171(C782E6R1P3), 10.0.0.171(C432E3R1P3)
- P20 Pro CLT-L29 10.0.0.171(C782E6R1P3)
- Nova 5 SEA-AL00 10.1.0.96(C00E90R1P1)
- Nova 5T YAL-L61 10.1.0.249(C431E3R1P2)
- Nova 5T YAL-L21 10.1.0.241(C431E9R5P1)
- P Smart (2019) POT-LX1 10.0.0.238(C432E3R4P1), 10.0.0.238(C431E3R4P1), 10.0.0.171(C432E3R1P3)
- P Smart+ POT-LX1T 10.0.0.177(C431E4R1P3)
- P30 Pro VOG-L09 10.1.0.150(C431E19R2P5), 10.1.0.123(C431E19R2P5)
- P30 Lite MAR-L01A 10.0.0.275(C431E8R2P7)
- P30 Lite MAR-L21A 10.0.0.275(C431E8R2P7)
- P30 Lite MAR-L21B 10.0.0.238(C431E4R4P1), 10.0.0.276(C431E4R4P1)
- P30 ELE-L09 10.1.0.150(C431E22R3P5)
- P30 ELE-L29 10.1.0.150(C431E22R2P5)
- P40 Pro 5G ELS-N29 10.1.0.176(C432E8R5P2), 11.0.0.151(C432E3R4P3)
- P40 Lite JNY-L21 10.1.0.261(C432E1R6P1)
- P Smart Z STK-L01 10.0.0.208(C431E7R1P2)
We have also detected what appears to be a similar or the same fault on two Oppo models. Affected models and Build IDs are:
- Reno4 Z CPH2065_11_A.18
- Reno Z CPH1979EX_11_C.33
In addition to the Build Numbers listed below for Honor 10 Lite HRY-LX1, we have also found 10.0.0.215(C431E9R3P1) and 10.0.0.215(C432E9R3P1).
There is no way for us to know for sure whether these 999 calls went through, or whether the dials failed, however we can see multiple 999 call attempts in most cases, which we believe suggests that the call attempts failed.
We have also purchased a Huawei Honor 10 Lite, which is the model of the phone from the original fault report, and found the issue on Build Number 10.0.0.187(C431E9R3P1), which also does not dial 999.
We are messaging all known users of these Build Numbers to warn them of the danger.
Update November 22nd 2020
A further fault with 999 on Huawei has been found. 999 calls should not request to redirect according to the Android CallRedirectionService specification, however we have identified that WeQ4U code is being run on at least one affected Huawei handset when 999 is dialled.
For the avoidance of doubt, WeQ4U is not hanging up the 999 calls - that is coming from elsewhere - and WeQ4U is not able to make the 999 call go through - but we are now able to show a message to affected users advising them that they may be able to reach 999 by uninstalling WeQ4U.
Working through the night, a WeQ4U update has been uploaded to Google Play and is being rolled out to all users, including Huawei users who may be affected by this issue and be unaware that they cannot dial 999.
The Google issue tracker has been updated with further details.
In order to ensure that the warning message reaches those Huawei users who have already installed WeQ4U when they dial 999 and the phone does not dial, WeQ4U has also been re-enabled for download on Google Play for Huawei phones running Android 10 and above.
The update also allows WeQ4U to automatically detect when the fault has occurred. We will of course report further affected Android Build Numbers on this page, on the Google Issue Tracker, and directly to Huawei as we become aware of them, in the interests of pubic safety and in line with our privacy policy.
Update November 20th 2020
We have received screenshots showing Build Numbers for two more Huawai handsets reported to be unable to dial 999, identified with the help of the test app from this statement. One is a P30 Pro VOG-L29 handset, the other is a P20 EML-L09. The affected build numbers are 10.0.0.178(C431E19R2P5) and 10.0.0.182(C432E7R1P3). The screenshots have been sent to Huawei and Google has also been notified. We have also texted users with these build numbers to warn them of the danger.
Posted November 17th 2020
We can confirm that a user of our call app has reported that he is unable to call 999 on his Huawei Honor 10 Lite HRY-LX1
This is an extremely serious matter and we were very alarmed when the affected user contacted us. Subsequently we have undertaken multiple tests to understand and try to resolve this matter on behalf of the user. We have also taken precautionary measures in case other users of this handset model are affected.
Following our investigation carried out with the help of the affected user, and for the avoidance of doubt, the fault does not lie with our app. Having eliminated our app as the source of the problem, we have together determined conculsively that it is coming from the operating system.
In this case there is a fault with the CallRedirectionService Android component implementation on this phone. The fault does not appear to affect calls to any other number.
We have demonstrated that any user having any app that uses CallRedirectionService is at risk with this Android build on this make and model. The Build Number can be seen by going to Settings -> About Phone - it is 10.0.0.215(C432E9R1P7)
We have now texted all our users with the same make, model and build of Android supplied by Huawei to warn them of this danger. Of course there is no way for us to know whether other Huawei phones running Android 10 are also at risk.
However, as a precaution, we have suspended downloads of our app from Play Store on all Huawei phones running Android 10 or above. Other app providers that use CallRedirectionService may strongly consider doing likewise.
We have conducted tests on other phones by other manufacturers. We have not found a fault preventing calls to 999 on phones from any other manufacturer.
In addition:
- We have submitted a fault report to Google available here.
- We have asked Huawei for a full list of affected models and Build Numbers.
- We have also contacted 999 by text to inform them of this issue.
- We have also contacted OfCom by email to inform them of this issue.
We would like to emphasise that if people do wish to make a test call to 999, please hang it up as soon as you can see that it is dialling as we would not want the 999 service to be overwhelmed with calls.
If you are affected by this issue and your Huawei phone will not dial 999, try uninstalling all apps using CallRedirectionService, including WeQ4U. Please also let us know at support@weq4u.co.uk with a screenshot of Settings -> About Phone showing the Build Number so that we can inform other users.
Other information
All mobile phone manufacturers that offer Android 10 or above are required to fully support CallRedirectionService according to the Android Compatibility definition available here.
Source code for testing is available here and you can download and install a compiled test app here that you can use to find out if your phone is affected.
Huawei support can be reached here.
The safety of our users is of course our number one priority.
Meet Suzy Johnson, the new Voice of WeQ4U!
Posted June 10th 2020
WeQ4U is very pleased to announce it has a new voice!
An experienced voice over professional, Suzy has provided voice prompts for many leading companies such as Vodaphone as well as extensive radio advertising; chances are she'll sound familiar.
With a history in acting and narration of training videos within the public sector, with clients including the NHS and the national Fire & Rescue Service, she has also recently recorded her first audiobook.
Suzy has branched out into communications skills training courses for healthcare and corporate clients, and can also provide proof-reading and copywriting services, with clients including hotels, websites and calendar and greeting card manufacturers.
A spokesperson for WeQ4U said:
"Suzy's velvety tones and crystal clear communication skills made her the perfect match for our WeQ4U values. Plus, her "Oooh how rude!" that callers hear if the call centre hangs up on them is simply to die for!"
Love Suzy's voice? WeQ4U can put you in touch with her directly - just email
and do let us know what you think of the new voice of WeQ4U!
Call Centre Waits More Than DOUBLE as UK enters Coronavirus lockdown
Posted April 2nd 2020
WeQ4U measures wait times at thousands of call centres across the UK. In the last week we have seen average wait times MORE THAN DOUBLE as the UK goes into lockdown, and more people work from home. As businesses close their premises to protect their employees and members of the public from Covid-19, the only way to contact them becomes online and over the phone.
To help consumers, we continue to offer WeQ4U as a free app and service, just as we always have. You can use WeQ4U to call any 01, 02, 03 or 0800 number, as well as many other 08 numbers within our extensive database. If you do find yourself in a queue, just press 9*, and your phone will disconnect from the call. When WeQ4U finds you an agent at the call centre, you will be reconnected automatically.
To help businesses, who are finding themselves much more busy than they will have had time to staff for, we are offering our unique OrderlyQ service free of charge. OrderlyQ gives every caller an individual estimated wait time, and invites them to hang up and call back after that time. When they call back they are put straight to the front of the queue to be served immediately. This removes the horrid waiting on hold experience and dramatically improves answer rates, to over 99% in many cases.
If your business, wait times or answer rate has been affected by Covid-19, we can fix this problem for you in minutes - please visit OrderlyQ to get started.
JOBS: We're hiring!
Posted July 11th 2016
Job Title: 1st Line Support Engineer
WeQ4U is looking for bright, friendly and enthusiastic 1st line support engineer to provide technical support for our app and call centre customers. We want to hear from candidates with a can-do attitude who are also fast learners wishing to gain experience in the wide range of technologies.
Job Description
Initially the role will focus on providing 1st line email and telephone technical support to our customers as well as documentation but we will expect you down the line to contribute to new product development, customisation and upgrades.
Roles & Responsibilities
- Manage / Update / Maintain WeQ4U Database.
- Manage our helpdesk system.
- Monitor our bespoke warning system and report to 2nd/3rd line support if any issue arise.
- Reproduce and investigate issues reported by customers.
- Provide assistance with software deployment and software updates/upgrades.
- Liaise with 2nd and 3rd line support staff.
- Liaise with our suppliers whenever necessary.
- Create new knowledge based articles for reuse throughout the Support Department.
- Self-motivated, and flexible enough to help wherever necessary.
Skills & Requirements
We are looking for someone who is genuinely keen on learning new technologies, likes to face challenges and is a fast learner. Excellent written and oral English is a must.
Technologies we use: Linux, Asterisk, Apache, Java, PHP, MySQL, PostgreSQL, HSQL, Tomcat, WordPress, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Android, Titanium SDK, Git, Maven, Ant, XML. The more you can tick off from the list the better – however training will be provided wherever necessary.
The the WeQ4U app and service is one of the highest rated and fastest growing apps in the UK.
We are a small yet highly profitable company with a start-up ethos. Those looking for 'big corporate' need not apply.
We make thousands of people happy every day. Come and help us. Good luck!
Is this you? If so, please send your CV with a covering email explaining why you think you are a good match for this role to jobs@weq4u.co.uk
0800 to become FREE from Mobile Phones in June 2015!
Posted December 12h 2013
According to this article from the BBC and also the official OfCom statement, calls to 0800 numbers really will be free from Mobiles, but not until June 28th, 2015.
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Of course you can get these calls free (or at least included in your bundled minutes) RIGHT NOW by using the WeQ4U app and service, just as you always could :)
There are also going to be changes to the 084 and 087 number ranges that could mean that calls to these number ranges might actually go up, depending on your provider and the number concerned. We're still waiting to see details of these.
NEWS: WeQ4U WINS Prestigious Future 50 People's Champion Award!
November 23rd 2012
WeQ4U has WON the 2012 Wonga.com & Real Business Future 50 People's Champion award. We're number ONE! A huge THANK YOU to the thousands of people who voted for us and made this possible, and to the competition organisers for making us part of the Future 50 and the Judges' Favourite 10. Full story...
NEWS: WeQ4U 11th most popular Utility on iPhone
October 22nd 2012
This just in: According to independent app-ranking site AppData.com, WeQ4U has jumped over 200 places to become the 11th most downloaded Utility app for iPhone in the UK today
NEWS: WeQ4U pays the Dragons a call!
October 8th 2012
Entrepreneur Matt King, who has invented a revolutionary new system to eliminate annoying call centre queues, is pitching his invention on the BBC TV show Dragon's Den on October 21.
Matt is the brains behind WEQ4U, a smart free app which saves people from being held in annoying queues at call centres. Since its launch earlier this year, the app has been downloaded more than 10,000 times, saving every single user, on average, a hefty £76 pounds per year.
The smart time and money saving service works with any phone and is available via iTunes and Android for mobile phone users, connecting them to hundreds of thousands of 08 numbers for free, saving them 30p per minute on their 08 calls.
Under BBC TV publicity guidelines, Matt is unable to talk about his experience in the Dragon's Den until after the show is broadcast at 9pm on BBC-2 on October 21.
"I can't give any details about my appearance, but I can say that if my memory of the filming is anything to go by, then it promises to be unmissable, says Matt. "So, to find out how the Dragons answered my call, you'll just have to tune in and see."
Being held in a phone queue is one of the nation's biggest gripes, which is why Matt has developed a clever queuing robot that does all the waiting for you.
The phone remains the most popular channel of communication for inbound and outbound contact (Infinity CCS 2012 survey), with 70 per cent of people preferring to make contact using their phone as opposed to email, text or social media.
The average UK consumer however spends 45 hours a year waiting on the phone (source: Co-op). And 60% of customers say they find it difficult to get through to call centres (source: Future Foundation).
NEWS: 10,000th download for smart app which eliminates annoying call centre queues
July 23rd 2012
A free app which saves people from being held in annoying queues at call centres, has been downloaded 10,000 times, saving every single user, on average, a hefty £76 pounds per year.
Entrepreneur and innovator Matt King, who launched the new WeQ4U app in March, says mobile users are flocking to download the time saving app because of its 30p per minute savings.
"The phone is still the most popular channel of communication for people wanting to make contact with a customer advisor in the UK, but lengthy call centre wait times remain a huge problem and customers are paying heavily for the privilege to queue," says Matt.
Until call centre operators get their acts together, using the WeQ4U app is really people's only option if they want to save themselves time and a considerable amount of money too.
Being held in a phone queue is one of the nation's biggest gripes, which is why Matt has developed a clever queuing robot that does all the waiting for you.
His smart time and money saving device works with any phone and is available via ITunes and Android for mobile phone users, connecting them to hundreds of thousands of 08 numbers for free.
The phone remains the most popular channel of communication for inbound and outbound contact (Infinity CCS 2012 survey), with 70 per cent of people preferring to make contact using their phone as opposed to email, text or social media.
The average UK consumer however spends 45 hours a year waiting on the phone (source: Co-op). And 60% of customers say they find it difficult to get through to call centres (source: Future Foundation).
How it Works
WeQ4U is incredibly simple to use and works with any UK number starting 01, 02, 0800, 0870 or 0500, as well as many thousands of other 087, 084 and 03 numbers in WeQ4U's extensive database of UK companies, including Sky, British Gas, HMRC, Barclays, BT and The Post Office.
WeQ4U app users access the service on money-saving 01 numbers, meaning they get WeQ4U calls included in their regular minutes, saving mobile users approximately 30p per minute when compared with the cost of calling 084 and 087 numbers directly. And if users get stuck in a queue, they just press 9* and their place is held for them free of charge until an agent answers, without using up any minutes at all. The average saving is £2.53 for every call made from a mobile phone.
Download for iPhone
Download for Android
Calls are to standard geographic 01 numbers, and are included in callers' inclusive minutes, so there are no expensive 08 charges with the service. Naturally, callers pay nothing for the time WeQ4U waits in the queue.
To use it via a landline, dial 0333 5432 111 and enter the number of the call centre you need to reach. WeQ4U dials it and connect callers to the call centre.
Once in a queue for an agent, just press 9* to disconnect from the call. The system remains in the queue until an agent answers, when the user's phone rings twice. As soon as it's stopped ringing, hit Last Number Redial or dial 0333 5432 111 to be put through to the agent immediately.
NEWS: Time saving device cuts out the pain of phone queues
March 1st, 2012
A brilliant new invention from a British entrepreneur is set to solve one of the nation.s biggest gripes - being held in a phone queue.
The new WeQ4U service is set to save frustrated callers millions of minutes a year being held in customer service queues as they try to get through to the UK call centres run by hundreds of British service industries.
Software design expert Matt King has developed a clever queuing robot that does all the waiting for you. The smart time and money saving device works with any phone and is now available as a handy app via ITunes and Android for mobile phone users.
Download for iPhone
Download for Android
WeQ4U app users access the service on money-saving 01 numbers, meaning they get WeQ4U calls included in their regular minutes, saving them about 30p per minute. And if users get stuck in a queue, they just press 9* and their place is held for them free of charge. The average saving is £2.53 for every call made from a mobile phone.
"One of people's pet hates is being held in a queue when they are trying to get through to a real person at a call centre," says Matt. In fact there's nothing worse than being told that your call is important and will be answered shortly when it clearly isn't.
"Research shows that people can be left on hold for anything up to an hour as they try to get through to a customer advisor. We are on a mission to put an end to that misery by connecting people to pretty much any UK call centre without them getting stuck in the inevitable queue."
The average UK consumer spends 45 hours a year waiting on the phone (source: NOP). And 60% of customers says they find it difficult to get through to call centres (source: Future Foundation).
How it Works
WeQ4U is incredibly simple to use and works with any UK number starting 01, 02, 0800, 0870 or 0500, as well as many other 087, 084 and 03 numbers in WeQ4U's extensive database of UK companies.
To use it via a landline, dial 0333 5432 111 and enter the number of the call centre you need to reach. WeQ4U dials it and connect callers to the call centre.
Once in a queue for an agent, just press 9* to disconnect from the call. The system remains in the queue until an agent answers, when the user.s phone rings twice. As soon as it's stopped ringing, hit Last Number Redial or dial 0333 5432 111 to be put through to the agent immediately.
With the App it's even simpler. Just press 9* to wait off hold and disconnect the call, and the system will reconnect you automatically when the agent answers.
Calls are to standard geographic 01 numbers, and are included in callers. inclusive minutes, so there are no expensive 08 charges with the service. Naturally, callers pay nothing for the time WeQ4U waits in the queue.