how does all this cellular stuff work?

[EmperorNero]

in my last thread about cell phones, our motorola startac malfunctioned so we're getting a new phone, most likely nokia since i've heard a lot of good stuff about it. I went to amazon.com b/c there was a $50 coupon off $100 and I wanted the nokia 8260. but amazon said the phone isn't available in my area. then I went to buy.com, same thing. so why isn't available? I thought any phone can be used with any cell phone service (we're using cincy bell wireless which is an at&t member).

 

[DataFly]

<< I thought any phone can be used with any cell phone service >>



Well, you can't use any phone with any phone service. They don't all use the same protocol, I think, and are therefore not all compatable with that phone.

 

[Tominator]

You must get a phone compatible with the AT@T network. Usually from an approved dealer.

I had AT@T about 10 years ago. Their service sucked about as much as the $700 for a phone and another $150 for a rebuild a little over a year later did. I know! All of them have improved, but the bad taste!:disgust:

I just got 2 Sprint PCS phones. They have a far better plan than any other provider. I'm in a fringe area for them, yet reception is crystal clear!
I got a Qualcomm 2035. It has more features that I'll ever use includeing E-Mail and web access. 2.5 cents a minute makes it cheaper than my landline! Btw, I got the Sprint PCS as much to use locally as in other parts of the country. In the small town I live in it is long distance to call out of the city limits! Even on AT@T's best long distance rate, 5 cents a minute for interstate and 7 for intrastate is the best plan I can find.

After considerable online research, I found the local Best Buy had the best deals on phones regardless the provider.
After various rebates they were free as were the hands-free accessories.

If you are 'stuck' with AT@T, you must get a phone that is ready for their service. My Sprint PCS phones can access the AT@T network by roaming, but at a high cost.