stevev wrote:
> There seems to be some agreement that CDMA is a better "network", especially
> in remote or rural areas. Meanwhile millions of people who live in urban
> areas, where GSM works fine, will have the opportunity to use a truly
> multi-functional device. I'm hoping that the iPhone is a big hit, and
> Verizon is forced to respond (or lose customers). They could start by
> upgrading their second-rate software and uncrippling their phones.

In reality, the Verizon XV-6700 is a very capable device, actually more
capable than the iPhone, though not as cool. If you want to use it for
e-mail and messaging then the slide out keyboard is much nicer than a
simulated keyboard on the screen. I'm sure that HTC will have a CDMA
version of their "Touch" which is very similar to the iPhone, but more
capable.

> Isn't it ironic that Verizon seems to be taking the same approach that Apple
> computer once took, by thinking that their superior product (in this case,
> the network) did not have to respond to other market conditions?

Hopefuly the iPhone will force Verizon to change their approach. The
reasons they turned down the iPhone make sense, however the real reason
that they should have taken the iPhone when it was offered to them would
be to keep Cingular from getting it!

I'm at the point where I'd probably be happy with a prepaid phone on
CDMA/AMPS for use where the GSM network doesn't yet reach, and a quad
band, HSDPA/GSM device that is similar to the XV-6700. I wouldn't get an
iPhone due to the closed architecture, lack of expandability, and
non-user replaceable battery (these are all Apple traits, and I
understand why Apple does this, but it's not where I want to go).