The cellphone industry will introduce number portability on September 18, the Argus reported on Friday.
Its website said this would allow a subscriber, whether on prepaid or contract, to move to another operator while keeping the same number.
Communication experts predicted better service for cellphone users is bound to follow.
Network operators can be expected to offer discounts, free services or other inducements to convince subscribers not to change operators.
Nadia Bulbulia of the number portability committee said the introduction of number portability will provide a wider choice for consumers and enhance competition within the cellphone-telecommunications market.
At present, consumers are restricted by the fact that their numbers will change if they move networks.
The set-up costs for number portability will be borne by the operator, according to Independent Communications Authority of South Africa regulations.
Mike Falconer of Cell C said the cost to subscribers has not yet been determined, but they will be able to change networks in two one-hour processes on the same day. — Sapa