[Q] XDA I need your opinions and experiences! - General Topics

My contract is up for renewal with verizon. I'm currently one of the "grandfathered" unlimited data users that will surely lose that when I renew. I really want the samsung galaxy note II so I'm considering all of my options
A) Renew and get a tiered data plan when they release the phone on the 27th (eventhough everyone else's is out, AT&T will release theirs on the 6th, verizon's with a locked bootloader)
B) Keep fighting with them and threaten them to lose my line and other's in my household until I can keep my unlimited
C) New carrier altogether - What carrier's do you guys have? -I live about 25 miles west of Cleveland (go browns!) in a little rural area which I do get good 4G coverage with verizon.
D) Buy a phone off contract $$$
I want to take everything into consideration before I lock in something for another 2 years.
Thanks everyone for your input!!!!

Sir, here is a thread for your assistance : http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1846277
Closed & Thank You

Related

[Q] Unlimited data plans

Hi - This is probably a newbie question, and off the beaten path for XDA because it's more about US wireless carriers... but here goes:
If I sign up for a new standard 2-year contract with TMobile with their 5/10 GB-capped "unlimited" plan, and then at some point down the road (say 6-12 months) they introduce Tiered data plans (as AT&T did), will I be able to keep my unlimited plan until the end of the 2-year contract? Or will they be able to force me, mid-contract, to switch to a tiered plan?
FYI - I'm on the verge of getting my first ever smartphone. I've done all my other research (Already decided on Android over iOS, and as for a handset am planning on the Vibrant), and now this is the last question to answer before I head off to the T-Mobile store.
Thanks!
cbauerscgun said:
Hi - This is probably a newbie question, and off the beaten path for XDA because it's more about US wireless carriers... but here goes:
If I sign up for a new standard 2-year contract with TMobile with their 5/10 GB-capped "unlimited" plan, and then at some point down the road (say 6-12 months) they introduce Tiered data plans (as AT&T did), will I be able to keep my unlimited plan until the end of the 2-year contract? Or will they be able to force me, mid-contract, to switch to a tiered plan?
FYI - I'm on the verge of getting my first ever smartphone. I've done all my other research (Already decided on Android over iOS, and as for a handset am planning on the Vibrant), and now this is the last question to answer before I head off to the T-Mobile store.
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well since im on VZW im not sure of my answer but based on what happened with AT&T when they introduced no unlimited data plans to new customers; so if you have one now on AT&T they let you keep it but new users cannot get unlimited plans. So i presume if on T-mobile that they give you an unlimited plan they will let you keep it even if they switch.
Cheers!

[Q] HTC Arrive on Verizon?

With the Arrive coming out on Sprint soon, and the Trophy coming to Verizon, allegedly on the 24th, I'm wondering if it will be possible to get an Arrive to work on Verizon? Verizon's coverage in my area is far better than Sprint's, but I don't want the bottom of the barrel WP7 device, as I've heard the Trophy called. I have used the Mogul, the Touch Pro, and now the Touch Pro 2, and really like having that slide-out keyboard.
Any idea if getting Arrive to work on Verizon, or am I doomed to deal with Trophy?
Thanks,
Rich
No idea. The only WP7 device I've heard of for Verizon is the Trophy, like you stated.
You can get the Arrive on Sprint and roam on Verizon!
I am hoping that a few more WP7 devices are announced for both carriers at CTIA (March 22-24).
Musicman247 said:
No idea. The only WP7 device I've heard of for Verizon is the Trophy, like you stated.
You can get the Arrive on Sprint and roam on Verizon!
I am hoping that a few more WP7 devices are announced for both carriers at CTIA (March 22-24).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
truth...
Sprint has agreements with Verizon, when you roam on Sprint it is through Verizon's network and there is no extra charge.
You could get on the Sprint Everything Plus Data plan for $59.99, and pay another $10 for the premium data plan, and pay $69.99 for a new HTC Arrive.
Really.... :/
I had a Sprint Mogul when I moved to GA two years ago. The reception was PATHETIC. You used to see the commercials where someone would say something then drop the call, and it was totally awkward? Well, that happened to me. I was talking to a dear friend, and said, "I love you, Patty", and the call dropped, and I WOULD have continued, "you're one of the dearest friends I have." Of course she didn't hear the last part. I drove up and down the road desperately seeking a bar. JUST ONE BAR! I switched to Verizon and that problem went away.
So, I guess the question I have now is whether the switch to CDMA on Sprint is that recent? I wasn't aware that I could use a Sprint phone on a Verizon network, and due to my past experience I didn't check. If the answer is yes, then I believe I will be cancelling my Verizon contract when the Arrive arrives!
Hmmm... Only issue is that my VZW plan is unlimited data - TRULY unlimited - because I had it on an employee plan when I got it (and I'm not an employee of that company anymore). Is Sprint's plan TRULY unlimited?
hopmedic said:
Really.... :/
I had a Sprint Mogul when I moved to GA two years ago. The reception was PATHETIC. You used to see the commercials where someone would say something then drop the call, and it was totally awkward? Well, that happened to me. I was talking to a dear friend, and said, "I love you, Patty", and the call dropped, and I WOULD have continued, "you're one of the dearest friends I have." Of course she didn't hear the last part. I drove up and down the road desperately seeking a bar. JUST ONE BAR! I switched to Verizon and that problem went away.
So, I guess the question I have now is whether the switch to CDMA on Sprint is that recent? I wasn't aware that I could use a Sprint phone on a Verizon network, and due to my past experience I didn't check. If the answer is yes, then I believe I will be cancelling my Verizon contract when the Arrive arrives!
Hmmm... Only issue is that my VZW plan is unlimited data - TRULY unlimited - because I had it on an employee plan when I got it (and I'm not an employee of that company anymore). Is Sprint's plan TRULY unlimited?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sprint unlimited really is unlimited, but if you read the fine print they reserve the right to terminate you if you get retarded on it, just like any other carrier. Check with a local Sprint store about the coverage/roaming issue. Most plans on Sprint now include free roaming nationwide, and I can't think of what other major carrier in the US has CDMA other than Verizon.
Don't! sign up for a plan through the store, you need to do it online through the Everythign Plus referral, and get the plan for $10 less than doing it in store. So you can bet a HTC Arrive and pay $59.99+$10 premium data = $69.99 for 500 anytime minutes to landlines, and unlimited any mobile any time, unlimited data, pictures, text, nights starting at 7pm, etc. etc. etc.
http://www.sprint.com/everythingplus
You will need a Sprint employee email address/pin. This is where Russ McGuire comes into play, he is Vice President of Strategy for Sprint. On his blog he invites everyone for the sprint offer.
http://mcguireslaw.com/
(under about on the right hand side he has his email address and pin for everyone to use freely/Legitimately)
Addendum: their fine print says they can terminate/stop service if you use too much data outside their network etc, so the roaming thing would apply here. Wouldn't hurt to check out if their coverage has improved in your area.
Very interesting - thanks so much for the info! I guess now I'm tossing up the pros and cons of going with that or going through wirefly and getting the phone for $50 - especially since my wife will get an arrive if it is $50, but she wont' get it if we have to pay $200 (after rebate). I'm looking at it like this:
From Wirefly:
2 phones $100
monthly rate $149
From Sprint:
1 phone $200 (plus whatever phone my wife ends up getting)
monthly rate $129
So, for $20 a month over 2 years, I would save a total of $480. At a $150 savings for each Arrive buying through wirefly, that takes the comparable savings down to 180. Given that my wife won't get an Arrive if we have to pay full price now (since we'll also have to pay early term fee for our current Verizon contract), She would probably go with a free phone, and I'd save more money, but she wouldn't have WP7 (which I want her to have).
You've given me much food for thought. Right now I'd say we're probably going to end up going with Wirefly, but I'm going to sit on the decision for a couple days to decide. Thank you.
hopmedic said:
Very interesting - thanks so much for the info! I guess now I'm tossing up the pros and cons of going with that or going through wirefly and getting the phone for $50 - especially since my wife will get an arrive if it is $50, but she wont' get it if we have to pay $200 (after rebate). I'm looking at it like this:
From Wirefly:
2 phones $100
monthly rate $149
From Sprint:
1 phone $200 (plus whatever phone my wife ends up getting)
monthly rate $129
So, for $20 a month over 2 years, I would save a total of $480. At a $150 savings for each Arrive buying through wirefly, that takes the comparable savings down to 180. Given that my wife won't get an Arrive if we have to pay full price now (since we'll also have to pay early term fee for our current Verizon contract), She would probably go with a free phone, and I'd save more money, but she wouldn't have WP7 (which I want her to have).
You've given me much food for thought. Right now I'd say we're probably going to end up going with Wirefly, but I'm going to sit on the decision for a couple days to decide. Thank you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Let me further add to your thoughts, wirefly still may not be the best option.
If you sign up with Sprint and port your current number over to them from another carrier they will give you $125 credit for each smartphone.
http://www.sprint.com/landings/portcredit/
sprint said:
Move your number to Sprint. Get $125.For a limited time only, activate a new Sprint smartphone and save.Just bring your number from another carrier to Sprint and activate a smartphone, like the Samsung Epic™ 4G, on a new line and we'll give you a $125 service credit. Not ready for a smartphone? We'll give you a $50 service credit when you port your number from another carrier and activate one of our other fabulous phones. Either way, you win.
$125 service credit per line for each smartphone
$50 service credit per line for other phones
How to get your service credit:
Find the perfect phone. Shop online now.
Transfer your eligible number to Sprint by 4/16/2011. Doing this online is easy – we'll ask you for your number when you checkout.
Within 72 hours of activating your phone and transferring your number from another carrier, register for the credit.
That's it! You can expect to see your service credit as a lump sum within the adjustment section of your invoice. The service credit will show up on the first or second invoice after you have been a Sprint customer for 60 days. It will be labeled as "Valued Customer Service Credit."
Visit this page if you have any questions about the status of your service credit and select “Where’s my credit?” Remember, the credit will not appear on your invoice until at least 60 days after activation.
Requires two-year Agreement.
This offer is available online, via Telesales and in participating Sprint Stores. Purchases from other retailers are not eligible for this credit.
Offer ends 4/16/2011. Available for consumer and individual-liable lines only. Requires port in from an active wireless line and mobile number that comes through the port process. Request for service credit must be made at www.sprint.com/switchoffer within 72 hours from the port in activation date or credit will be declined. New line must remain active with Sprint for 61 days to receive service credit. Smartphones are Blackberry, Android, Windows Mobile, Palm and Instinct Family of devices. All other phones are considered feature phones. Smartphones require activation on an Everything Plan with data with Premium Data add-on charge. Upgrades, replacements, and ports made between Sprint entities or providers associated with Sprint are excluded (i.e. Virgin Mobile USA, Boost Mobile, Common Cents Mobile and Assurance). Offers not available in all markets/retail locations. Other restrictions apply.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sooooo $400 for 2 Arrive's, minus $250 - $150 for 2.
Hope this further helps you.
Wow.... That's awesome.... Now I'm going to have to look and see if I can combine the everything plus with the port credit, and double check to make sure we can receive two $100 rebates if we buy two phones. Thanks!
hopmedic said:
Wow.... That's awesome.... Now I'm going to have to look and see if I can combine the everything plus with the port credit, and double check to make sure we can receive two $100 rebates if we buy two phones. Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The port credit information was posted on the Everything Plus referral page after you logged in with the email and pin number. And the $100 refund credit is definately per phone regardless of how many you purchase.
The only thing you need to make sure of is that Sprint services your area well.
Hope I was able to help you save some money no matter what you decide, let me know what you finally end up doing. I am picking up 2 Arrives on Sunday (for wife and I).
Credit Union Discounts
For those who go/have gone through wirefly for the 50 dollar deal (which I did), since we can't sign up for the Referral Program, the next best option to still get 10% knocked off your bill is to get a discount through any affiliated credit union (of which, there are TONS). Long-term, for 1 phone, Getting the port credit and Referral discount probably works out better, but I couldn't justify spending 300 up front for the phone, waiting x number of weeks for the rebate etc..
cusaver dot com
you can always....swap esns if your willing to get your hands dirty *cough* It works great *cough*
Halabeaster, I've never put a non-standard rom on a phone, but if it's safe, I'm willing to try. For the moment, I'm on Sprint, but not sure I'm happy with the coverage... Got 3 1/2 weeks left or so to decide. I am a developer, but not very experienced. How difficult is it?
cyclical said:
Sprint unlimited really is unlimited, but if you read the fine print they reserve the right to terminate you if you get retarded on it, just like any other carrier. Check with a local Sprint store about the coverage/roaming issue. Most plans on Sprint now include free roaming nationwide, and I can't think of what other major carrier in the US has CDMA other than Verizon.
Don't! sign up for a plan through the store, you need to do it online through the Everythign Plus referral, and get the plan for $10 less than doing it in store. So you can bet a HTC Arrive and pay $59.99+$10 premium data = $69.99 for 500 anytime minutes to landlines, and unlimited any mobile any time, unlimited data, pictures, text, nights starting at 7pm, etc. etc. etc.
You will need a Sprint employee email address/pin. This is where Russ McGuire comes into play, he is Vice President of Strategy for Sprint. On his blog he invites everyone for the sprint offer.
(under about on the right hand side he has his email address and pin for everyone to use freely/Legitimately)
Addendum: their fine print says they can terminate/stop service if you use too much data outside their network etc, so the roaming thing would apply here. Wouldn't hurt to check out if their coverage has improved in your area.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Question, can you jump on this if you're an existing customer?
I just got my HTC Arrive on the Verizon Wireless network via Page Plus Cellular thanks to this post:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=13205205&postcount=9
I replaced my well used Touch Pro 2 with an Arrive because I was waiting for Windows Phone 7 and Netflix capabilty. I'm not a heavy phone data user because I have Wi-Fi everywhere I go.
So far I was able to get the talk and text working for my unlimited plan but haven't hammered out the rest of the data settings. Might have to wait for a Verizon Trophy to come out so that I can try to mirror the settings. This method is technically on Verizon so 95% of the service is the same at a much better price. I need mainly lots and lots of Talk/Text with NO data plan fees.
I actually bought my 2 phones from Amazon Wireless. Both were upgrades for non-primary lines on a family plan (Everything Data 3000) and AW had the best deal on the devices I could find anywhere, $150. The deal got even better now though, $99 for upgraders and free for new users.
dtrush said:
I just got my HTC Arrive on the Verizon Wireless network via Page Plus Cellular thanks to this post:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=13205205&postcount=9
I replaced my well used Touch Pro 2 with an Arrive because I was waiting for Windows Phone 7 and Netflix capabilty. I'm not a heavy phone data user because I have Wi-Fi everywhere I go.
So far I was able to get the talk and text working for my unlimited plan but haven't hammered out the rest of the data settings. Might have to wait for a Verizon Trophy to come out so that I can try to mirror the settings. This method is technically on Verizon so 95% of the service is the same at a much better price. I need mainly lots and lots of Talk/Text with NO data plan fees.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What does or does not work? Do apps go to your bill?
No one else has made progress with the Arrive on Verizon. I was looking for a replacement for my TP2, and I really do not want to change carriers.

Poll: What Is Your Take On AT&T’s Acquisition of T-Mobile?

This is directly from TMoNews but I'm curious to see how the results will compare with theirs. I figure that TMoNews just might be... a little biased. You think?
So I wanted to post a poll on here where there are a variety of people that would share their opinions. Some of you are with AT&T... some might be with T-Mobile... others... well... why do you even care anyway?
Right... so on with it.
So unless you’ve been sleeping for the past month you likely know AT&T is purchasing T-Mobile. Understandably so, there is a population of readers up in arms and want T-Mobile to stay T-Mobile and those who see the benefits of an AT&T deal. Here is your chance to sound off, T-Mobile reads this blog every day so they’ll see your vote. Will it affect anything, probably not. However, it is a chance to make your voice known as to how you feel regarding this shocking news. Vote away! (quoted from TMoNews)
WARNING!
By the way, keep this ON TOPIC! If it strays from topic I will close it without hesitation. This will not be used to raise your post count, this will not be used for flaming, this will not be a troll fest. If I see ANY of this, the posts will be removed, the member(s) will receive an infraction and the thread will be closed!
I'm not sure what to make of it, even if it does succeed. I prefer T-Mobile to AT&T for better data speeds and cell service where I am. But AT&T has decent cell service, too. Their data speeds aren't as good as T-Mobile's. Regardless of whatever happens with the acquisition, T-Mobile would be wise to market quad band 3G data phones because just the idea of AT&T buying them will severely hamper any sales of phones. If people know their brand new T-Mobile smartphones will continue to work with AT&T, then they will continue to buy. But if T-Mobile doesn't take steps to ensure the continued operation of their phones with AT&T, even if the acquisition fails, then sales will plummet.
MartyLK said:
...T-Mobile would be wise to market quad band 3G data phones because just the idea of AT&T buying them will severely hamper any sales of phones. If people know their brand new T-Mobile smartphones will continue to work with AT&T, then they will continue to buy. But if T-Mobile doesn't take steps to ensure the continued operation of their phones with AT&T, even if the acquisition fails, then sales will plummet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree. Some T-Mobile devices already support AT&T 3G. To my understanding the Vibrant does already. Although I haven't tried it for myself. They are also releasing several new phones in the near future that got me all excited such as the HTC Sensation. I love pretty much everything about that phone and I can't wait until it's release this summer! BUT! If I can't use it on AT&T's 3G network... then what would be the point of buying it? Unless AT&T adopts T-Mobiles 3G spectrum which is also a possiblity. But honestly, I am having second thoughts now about upgrading to a new phone because what if this merger DOES go through and worse case scenerio DOES happen? I'm on a T-Mobile Loyalty plan that I love! After this deal goes through (assuming of course, it does) I don't think that AT&T will want to keep me on this 'special' plan.
Just comparing what I have now with AT&T:
Tmobile:
Plan: Unlimited Loyalty $49.99
Includes - Unlimited Whenever Minutes, Unlimited Weekend Minutes, Unlimited Weeknight Minutes, WorldClass International Service
Services:
CallerTunes $1.49
Data and Text: T-Mobile Android Unlimited Web + Unlimited Messages $34.99
TOTAL: $86.47
If I was to try to get something similiar with AT&T
AT&T
Plan: Nation Unlimited $69.99
Services:
DataPro 4GB for HSPA+ Smartphone Tethering $45.00
Messaging Unlimited $20
TOTAL: $134.99
Difference of 1gb less data each month and costing me $48.52 MORE every month.
I don't think so.
More 2/3G towers for TMO users to access and new HSPA+ towers for ATT..
Yeah good deal for signal.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA Premium App
What will happen to T-mobile contracts to those who still have T-mobile when and if AT&T buys it? will we start to pay more? or will we keep the same prices? what's going on :c
caoticpsycho said:
What will happen to T-mobile contracts to those who still have T-mobile when and if AT&T buys it? will we start to pay more? or will we keep the same prices? what's going on :c
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
T-Mobile keeps saying that nothing will change.
AT&T says that nothing will change.
But we all know that AT&T is not going to be offering T-Moble rate plans to new customers so they will probably be grandfathered. Which means once you change your T-Mobile rate plan to an AT&T plan... you can't go back. Also when you change your phone by upgrading it is possible that you may have to change your rate plan and services.
So worse case scenario here, you go with the merger, become an AT&T customer and two or three years down the row you want to get the newest and latest phone. By that time AT&T will more than likely NOT be able to allow you to keep your current plan.
But... all of that is just my own personal assumption and again... worse case scenario.
AT&T haven't acquired TMobile. Only T-Mobile USA as I understand it. Either way, my feelings are nothing. I nothing it as I'm English and really don't care nor understand the politics of choosing a phone provider in America!
MarkusPO said:
AT&T haven't acquired TMobile. Only T-Mobile USA as I understand it. Either way, my feelings are nothing. I nothing it as I'm English and really don't care nor understand the politics of choosing a phone provider in America!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Then why respond to the thread?
My opinion is that it will only benefit AT&T customers (maybe)
T-mobile customers will be screwed. We will be grandfathered in until we want an upgrade and be forced to switch. It will also create a GSM monopoly which will benefit no one (customers, I don't care about shareholders or CEO bonuses) I truly hope they block this merger.
Sent from either my Nexus S, N1 or telepathically using two tin cans and some string.
If i dont see some good deals then im going right to verizon
Binary100100 said:
T-Mobile keeps saying that nothing will change.
AT&T says that nothing will change.
But we all know that AT&T is not going to be offering T-Moble rate plans to new customers so they will probably be grandfathered. Which means once you change your T-Mobile rate plan to an AT&T plan... you can't go back. Also when you change your phone by upgrading it is possible that you may have to change your rate plan and services.
So worse case scenario here, you go with the merger, become an AT&T customer and two or three years down the row you want to get the newest and latest phone. By that time AT&T will more than likely NOT be able to allow you to keep your current plan.
But... all of that is just my own personal assumption and again... worse case scenario.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As one of the oldest people in this forum, this will not be good for the consumer. I do mergers and acquisitions, and this one will not be a price reduction to us. Bottom line this will not benefit us the consumer. It will help ATT... but for us....... we will come up short and most likely have to look at going to Verizon or Sprint I hope it does not go through.
It is a terrible concept. At&t claims it will save consumers money, but as soon as new phones come out, and T-mobile customers want to upgrade to them, they will have to move to AT&T's expensive plans. I think the reasonably priced underdogs should have teamed up (Sprint and T-mobile) And I mean teamed up not bought out. Then they would be able to afford their cheap plans, they would be given the newest phones, and would make it to number one. Instead At&t will suck everyone dry until Sprint is out of business, and At&t customers realize how much they are getting ripped off. Then it will just be Verizon on top.
IMO
There's a reason Ma Bell was split up in 1984 due to an antitrust suit. Slowly they're sucking up the competition again. I don't think that having a GSM monopoly here in America is a good choice at all. It's bad for consumers because it's taking away our choices. I prefer GSM at this point to CDMA because I like the flexibility of a sim card and the fact that as far as 3G is concerned, the speeds are faster. (I'm not factoring in anything that has to do with LTE sim cards as it's still too new) I don't want to switch to Sprint or Verizon, I get too good of a deal on T-Mobile. I've had AT&T in the past and I lived in an area with a TON of dropped calls. It was horrid, and I hated their customer service. I do NOT want to be a part of AT&T again. I really hope this does not get approved. At least then T-Mobile gets 3 billion dollars from AT&T, some spectrum, and roaming agreements.
Censura_Umbra said:
...It is a terrible concept. At&t claims it will save consumers money, but as soon as new phones come out, and T-mobile customers want to upgrade to them, they will have to move to AT&T's expensive plans...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Which is EXACTLY what I was referring to in post #7. And I don't look forward to paying $50 or more every month. Yes... it would be ~$50 according to my comparison:
Just comparing what I have now with AT&T:
Tmobile:
Plan: Unlimited Loyalty $49.99
Includes - Unlimited Whenever Minutes, Unlimited Weekend Minutes, Unlimited Weeknight Minutes, WorldClass International Service
Services:
CallerTunes $1.49
Data and Text: T-Mobile Android Unlimited Web + Unlimited Messages $34.99
TOTAL: $86.47
If I was to try to get something similiar with AT&T
AT&T
Plan: Nation Unlimited $69.99
Services:
DataPro 4GB for HSPA+ Smartphone Tethering $45.00
Messaging Unlimited $20
TOTAL: $134.99
Difference of 1gb less data each month and costing me $48.52 MORE every month.
So has anybody heard of any recent updates to this?
well ... i "vomited" online, all over, my rants ( opinions) on this matter, so, all i have to say is :THIS IS CRAP WRAPPED WITH A PRETTY AND SHINY BOW ... BUT AFTER U GET RID OF THE BOW, THE CRAP STILL SMELLS LIKE ...S /-/ iT ...
HERE IS MY REPLY / VIEW ON THIS from another post. We need to show our resent to FCC and DoD to stop this deal. Is there any cases/notices/appeals/votes going on ?? I am no lawer but i seriously believe that we can win the case by just presenting some of the FACTS from these posts.
Every company has flaws. For ATT it happens to be their network. As another member said pick your poison. I will agree with you that verizon is even more expensive than ATT but i wont agree that TMO-ATT merger can be good. I wont compare services as they are location dependent. But just for the competition sake. For e.g. :
1. TMO offers completely different plans than ATT. (and one of the cheapest data plans for $10). Also international users still have a choice of unlimited data plans. Its just what suits you.
2. TMO has more choices of top smartphones. Some of the current and future dual core phones for TMobile are - LG G2X, HTC sensation, Galaxy S2 while Atrix is the only dual core yet announced (Both are supposed to get LG 3Ds). TMO even beats ATT selection in single cores. Almost a year old Iphone 4 and Captivate are next best phones on ATT. While TMO has/had plenty of HTC, Samsung and motorola phones to choose from.
Just answer if GPS on captivate didnt work what choice were ATT customers given - none till this feb, meanwhile all the other companies released tons of android devices to suit everybodys needs. I know ATT supposed to release 15-20 android phones this year but when ? we are done with 1/3 year and all we know is LG thrill 3D and Infuse without any dates. I am sure even then TMO will have more choices to select from.
Its very important for US customers to have GSM competition as all new phone technology in world is first released in GSM. CDMA versions (IPhone, Bionic) are always months late.
3. Again right now TMOs 4G is ON while ATTs not. Atleast some GSM customers have a choice to select a working service.
4. As for what you said "Better coverage, lower prices? ", I seriously doubt less GSM competition will result in lower prices. Plus GSM coverage will still be the same. Its just that ATT will have it all and customers wont have any choice.
To conclude, If TMo-ATT deals is allowed to happen, competition (all the above stated FACTS) will severly degrade with only one GSM player.
I tried to be as neutral as i could & Just presented it from shoppers point of view. I know ATT has many positives over TMo as well. All the more reason the deal shouln't happen. Just to have a choice and maintain competition of devices and services. ATT should improve their network like everybody else by investing in it rather than buying off competition.
P.S: I hate long replies
link12245 said:
The reason HSUPA isn't enable is because android is very finicky with HSUPA. With the captivate, for example, you could change a modem file and get HSUPA, but it would normally knock out Bluetooth, or call quality. They're working to fix this, it's already in testing, so you should have your fix very soon. Also, what's your beef with the T-mo buyout? Better coverage, lower prices? Seems to be a win win for me. Either way, you can't really stop it, so just go to Verizon, get your Thunderbolt which is 1/2 as powerful with 1/4 the battery and twice the bill. Enjoy your 12mb/s (in only about 40 cities) while I'll enjoy my plenty fast 5-8mb/s when the back-haul to the towers is all complete (which in my area is the end of this month). Oh no, it actually takes time for a company to push out a nation wide roll out! Amazing that they can't just nod their head and it be done.
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What's going to happen is just like what happened when alltel got baught out by verizon. Here's the scoop when your grandfathered in with tmobile and the switch happens, you can still keep your plan when you upgrade. You can still have the tmo plan but att is billing you. So it won't hurt people I don't think. Just better signal all around. Besides when the buy out is complete there will still be tmobile stands in some markets, if it goes accordingly as it did with alltel and verizon. Good or bad? I say good! Now America will have a good gsm network. Very much comparable to verizon.
they dont even have their own network together to be trying to buy someone else out!!!!
Someone needs to buy AT&T out! Even though it will never happen!

Going to School internationally; what to do about Cellphone plan?

I started a 2 year plan with T-mobile in September, not ever considering going to school in Canada, but now that is the prospect that I'm facing.
The biggest problem is that I'm still going to need a phone here in the states for breaks, so I can't just get a new Canadian plan. The reason I have posted this in the XDA forums is cause I have a rooted G2 + google voice. I know the chances are slim, but is there anything I can do with these two things that could help me not lose either a ton of money on cancelling a plan early, or lose the phone that I have paid $250 for?
Thanks for any help.
Maybe you can sell the phone with the contract to somebody else and just get a new one?
by law plans are pro-rated so if you have a 2 year plan and you are 1 year into it the penalty is 50% of the early termination fee. So look at the fine print the cost may not be as bad as you think.
What about the phone, since it is unlocked, would it work if i got like a prepaid plan in canada?
It should have the GSM bands that Canada operates on, so yes, but that's edge speeds only. I don't know which 3g bands the G2 has or what canada's 3g operates on, so look into that to see if you can get speeds above edge.
You should cancel your plan & for the states use prepaid t-mobile (or whatever) phone should still work. Just make sure you get tmobile to unlock it for you

[Q] Help choosing phone and provider, please?

I have a MyTouch 4G on T-Mobile. In a year or less the AT&T buyout of T-Mobile may happen and.... I have to decide what's next for me.
1. I'm happy with the MyTouch and my T-Mo plan but I have no contract and therefore no protection at all against whatever changes may result from the buyout.
2. Physical or on-screen keyboard is fine, no preference.
3. I need VERY little voice time, less than 100 minutes a month for the last 10 years so the 200 minute senior plans from AT&T or VZW are fine for me.
4. I need LOTS of data so price is a consideration.
5. I MUST have UMA or WiFi calling to cover all the places I need my phone but I think that's impossible, I doubt AT&T will add that and I know VZW won't.
6. The choice is between VZW and AT&T, don't want to go into reasons for that. I have a lot of very bad experiences with AT&T and a lot of good experience with VZW, offsetting that is that my current phone(s) are GSM.
So.... should I try to live with AT&T or get a new phone and go with VZW? Price will be exactly the same either way but I'll need to sell some phones and get a new one (eBay or Craig's List, no contract!)
And, if the recommendation is VZW what CDMA phone is close to the MyTouch 4G in performance and features?
Any suggestions much appreciated, thanks!
Anybody?
10 Characters
I'm not really sure what verizon phone is the closest to what you have right now, but they do have a few good smartphone options. I will say that if you're planning on switching, you should do so before the 7th because there will be no more unlimited data on new plans after that.
I've been on sprint for awhile now mainly because the pricing. The evo 4g is comparable to the mytouch 4g. The evo 3d just came out for sprint recently which is a beast of a phone but I'm not upgrading just yet. Explore all your options and visit androidcentral, they have many reviews of android phones from all carriers. I'd suggest looking over there to get some more input
Sent from Erik Estrada
the merger has not happened yet and it will be at least 8 months till it goes down and then prob at least half a year till everything gets switched. People are worried but it takes time to get thing swiched over. You might even get a cheap trade off phone when that happens. There is nothing cheaper than TMO and you seem to be happy with it. Why not just stick with it till the merger happens.
Pick up a Sensation or a G2X and stay on Tmo as long as you can.
But if you really want to switch then I would pick verizon (unfortunetely there are not phones on vzn that I really care for right now but you cant go wrong with the network availability and speed but super high prices).
As mentioned you should consider sprint, closest to tmobile in prices and decent network with 1 nice phone which is the evo 3D.
gluck.
Thanks for the answers!
First, I have no contract nor will I, I'll stick with T-Mo as long as possible but it's never too soon to start searching Craig's List or Ebay for a phone if I do go to VZW. Question is, if I port my number now, will I still have unlimited data next month or the month after on a month to month deal?
Pricing, Sprint is the most expensive option by far, both VZW and AT&T offer senior plans which I had when I was with VZW before, Sprint has nothing similar. BTW, T-Mo only saves me $5/mo over VZW. I get more minutes I can't use/don't want with T-Mo but who cares?
Coverage: I switched to T-Mo because they had coverage where I need it, VZW doesn't (I know, that's the reverse of most people's experience!) but w/o UMA/WiFi calling I'll be back to no coverage in most places where I need it regardless of who I chose.
(T-Mo used to offer an unlimited data only plan with per minute voice, that was the best for me but it's no longer available.)
technology moves pretty fast these days.. i would ride out your t mobile plan until the merger gets closer then look into plans and phones. As one person stated verizon is dumping unlimited plans after the 7th so maybe thats a deciding factor for you.
Thanks
TheIceCreamMan said:
technology moves pretty fast these days..
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I agree but I'm usually happy with a phone that's a little behind the curve.
i would ride out your t mobile plan until the merger gets closer then look into plans and phones. As one person stated verizon is dumping unlimited plans after the 7th so maybe thats a deciding factor for you.
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I looked at plans and phones today, VZW still has the Old Fart's plan for $30/mo so that's fine, the data is a worry. I can get the unlimited plan today but w/o a contract will I get to keep it next month?
With the 65 Plus plan for $30 and the data plan for $30 I'd be paying only $5/mo more than T-Mobile but with no UMA/WiFi calling which is a major problem and the reason I'm staying with T-Mo as long as possible!
The change from unlimited data is a good reason to switch today but with no guarantee that I can keep the unlimited plan I'm scared to change!
I don't know how unlimited data works without a contract, you'd have to ask Verizon. As for wifi calling, why not just use Google voice?
On a scale of 1 to 10 I rate UMA as a 10, WiFi Calling as about a 6, Google Voice as a 0. It's just not an acceptable alternative but it is an alternative I suppose...
I would suggest not to try AT&T - pretty poor network .. Also, they dont seem to have an unlimited data plan.
I agree with that but I suspect that AT&T will remain T-Mobile for some time after the buyout, as in honoring my current plan and maybe continuing to offer UMA/WiFi calling. I expect everything will continue unchanged for some weeks, maybe months? I'll switch when I have to unless something unexpected happens.
I'm able to switch any time, I have an old VZW BB, an 8330, so I can port my number over right now if I need to....
4G network T-Mobile
At this rate, when people test 6G we started erecting 4G network is OK
I have a month to month deal with Verizon. Coverage is good here in Western PA, much better than AT&T. Very happy to still have unlimited data!
I have had sprint for a short time, but it has been really good.
arunprakashl said:
I would suggest not to try AT&T - pretty poor network .. Also, they dont seem to have an unlimited data plan.
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Unlimited data seems to be as extinct as dinosaurs, those who have it will be allowed to keep it (for who knows how long?) but new customers can't get it.
I have an unlimited plan with T-Mo but I'm sure that'll be going away, the question is how long will it last after the buyout? I'm guessing I'm OK for at least a month but then????
For most customers, the lowest limit offered by most companies is more than adequate.
With AT&T for awhile now. Not too impressed with coverage or service. I wouldn't recommend them at this point. Would have stayed T-mobile but their coverage was worse where I need to go. If T-mobile works for you, why change. When AT&T merged with Cingular, it didn't affect customer of either company until they signed up for new contracts, which sounds like it won't be you.
I don't know if it is a precursor to what's coming but a new T-mobile device from Huawei is being tested by the FCC with T-mobile and AT&T HSPA+ bands. Max speed @ 42mbps. Engadget has a small article on it.
Sent from my Inspire 4G using the power of the dark side.

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