The GSM Association today announced a new initiative aimed at preventing international travelers from suffering bill shock thanks to data roaming rates. A group of 24 wireless network operators, including AT&T and Verizon in the U.S., will alert travelers via SMS when they land in new countries that data roaming fees may be charged if they use data.
Additionally, travelers will be able to set mobile data roaming limits and temporarily suspend access to data services if they reach their spending limit. This is but the first step being taken by the GSMA on behalf of international travelers, and the new measures go into effect at the end of 2012. The GSMA hopes to sign on more participating carriers between now and then.
