I am in the market for a new cell phone and possibly carrier. I currently have a voice only family plan (800 minutes) for 69.99 with Sprint. I am looking to upgrade my phone to something that support the “gmail” and “google maps” client’s. I also would like to know which providers have the cheapest data/family plans. I know the following carriers offer service in my area Sprint, ATT, Verizon, T-Mobile, US Cellular.
If you like dropped calls and static then go with a GSM carrier. If you like great sound quality stay with a cdma carrier. Just about all the pda/smartphones support gmail and google maps. I have a Motorola Q on alltel and I love it.
Go with Verizon, they're more reliable and I've always found Motorola phones to be reliable and sturdy. This Motorola U9 Review looks good but I don't think Verizon carries it, though. Anyways, any motorola phone is reliable, that's just my opinion.