browsing from smartphone

[frozentundra123456]

Hi all

I am quite familiar with computers, but am totally new to the smartphone market. I am considering upgrading to a smartphone mainly for internet access to check e-mail and maps while on the go.

First, I know this is probably a stupid question, but can you access the internet via your phone from a wireless network without being connected to your carrier??
I have wireless at home and work at a large university which has free wireless in most buildings. I would like to be able to access the internet, especially at work, but dont want to carry around a laptop, tablet, or netbook. So could I access these networks from a phone even if I did not have a good signal from the carrier??? I am asking especially because right now I have T-mobile and dont get a good signal in the 2 buildings I spend most of the time in.

Also, could anyone recommend a good phone and/or carrier?? I would not use much air time for talk or text, and a fair amount for internet access. As someone else noted, Virgin Mobile has a very attractive plan pricewise, but it seems too good to be true.

 

[Pliablemoose]

Yes, you can use a smartphone on WiFi. Just like a laptop or desktop.

Virgin is the cheapest option right now, they are limited to Sprint towers (Sprint network) exclusively, where other major carriers share towers for better coverage (depending on where you live, etc)

Your options for phones and carriers is immense, there will be a good deal on smartphones on Monday through Amazon, with many phones for free (cutting edge superphones)

If you want to browse a lot, I'd encourage you to look at phones with a 4" or larger screen, it makes browsing much easier.

Your other options might be to purchase a color nook and use it on Wifi, or perhaps find a refurbished Galaxy Tab and use it on Wifi only.