At 11 Mar 2007 23:15:31 -0400 Chuck wrote:

> Replacing the phones gets into one bag of worms,
> since Cingular is GSM only in my area, other than some AT&T and old
analog
> cell sites. Since Cingular is going to 3G in the future, a replacement
phone
> should be compatable with my existing data use and 3G as well as GSM.

The 6340, IIRC, only does CSD data (9.6-14.4k using minutes) which is
"1G." Not GPRS (30-60kbps, or 2G, which is billed by the kb.)


> Unfortunately, a new contract would change some of the existing service
> options to a "charge extra" rather than the current included in base
rate
> status.

Eventually, you'll likely have no choice. You're probably currently on a
GAIT plan, which Cingular will likely discontinue when the officially
terminate TDMA and analog service next February, forcing you on a new
plan anyway.

> In addition, the "new" contract would charge based upon data usage
> as well as minutes. Currently, only minutes are chargable.


I doubt that. I suspect your plan uses minutes for data. (So free
nights and weekends, etc. are free for data as well, etc.) I a sume you
are charged nothing OTHER than minutes for data use. (My old Cingular
TDMA plan was like that- the "usual" $3.99/month data fee was waived.)

Cingular MIGHT be able to move that feature ("Included CSD") to a new
account, but don't think that means you'll get "unlimited" 2G or 3G data-
it just means your future 3G phone will still be able to dial out at 9.6k
using minutes, just as your broadband-connected desktop PC can still use
it's trusty 56k modem if you tell it to.


> Since I have a newer car with a built in cellphone (Locked to Verizon)
I'm
> seriously considering forgetting about Cingular and switching.
>
> Any pros and cons concerning Verizon service?

I've never used Verizon so I can't really give you advice there except to
say I'm from the camp that believes you pick the service provider that
meets your needs first, then choose compatible equipment. Already having
a Verizon cellphone in my posession wouldn't influence ME in choosing
Verizon, anymore than already having a spare Ford key in my pocket would
lead me to buy a Ford automobile!