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I currently have the following cellular plan with Verizon.:
NATIONWIDE EMAIL & MSG 450 MINS UNL PDA + N&W + IN + MSG $99.99
Monthly access charge: $99.99
Monthly allowance minutes: 450 general
Per minute rate after allowance: $0.45 peak , $0.45 off-peak
I just found out Sprint has the following cellular plan:
Simply Everything $99.99
Monthly access charge: $99.99
Monthly allowance minutes: Unlimited
Unlimited mobile internet and messaging: Web surfing, email, GPS Navi, txt, BIS, pictures, video, Sprint Music and Sprint TV
I called Verizon and they offered me a more expensive $130 plan. They really didn't care about Sprint's pricing and pretty much told me to bite it and offered to transfer me to their cancellations department. I can't see why I should stay with Verizon when Sprint has hands down a better deal.
So I am asking you out there whether you're a Sprint or Verizon customer to sound off. What do you think -stay or go? What are your experiences with either or both companies?
Pros: I never have to worry about going over my minutes (which has happened many times). One monthly fee for the whole enchilada.
Cons: $145 Cancellation Fee & $299.99 Total One-Time Charge (including $100.00 mail-in rebate)
Thanks!
I have been down that road a couple times. First let me say that I am a Verizon customer with the XV6800, Ive got some $79 plan and $50 for internet and even more for insurance and text messaging- plus another 20 a month for a family deal...
Most recently, I shopped around because, after having my 6800 for 1 month, the sliding hinge failed and spread open. I took it into the store and they said that it looked as though I had scratched the casing- which meant that I damaged the unit and thus the hinge broke because of it. I knew this wasn't the case but they didn't care. They offered to have me cancel my service, I talked to the cancellation department and I reminded them that I pay over 2000 a year just in service, buy my phones and accessories from them, and have brought them over 15 people to Verizon from other companies because I thought they were the better company with the best customer service- Cancellations didn't care. The lady even asked if I was going to keep the same number because if I was- then I didn't have to cancel through her. Whatever phone provider I did sign up through would cancel it for me!!! I couldn't believe they had the audacity. Ive been with them for 11 years and they could care less...
I ended up paying the $50 to have asuran send me another phone- I told them I lost it so I could keep the old phone for parts if I need it...
The reason I didn't switch? Well, it didn't make sense... I would still have to spring for a phone, startup fees, cancellation fees from my current contract through verizon, All my friends/family would stay verizon and I would be something else, plus- mainly what it came down to is that their are no good phone providers out there... just less evil ones. In my case- Verizon just happens to be the less evil one. All depends what you want...
Verizon does have the best network across the nation, usually their customer service is helpful, phones are usually outdated when they do finally arrive- but I think it's because they wait for the technology to be tested and true before they carry it. Annoying, but at least your almost always going to get a freakin rock solid phone....
I feel better by pimping the crap out of my phone and using Internet Sharing as much as I can. I even used my cell to connect to the internet for Halo - XBox to laptop and laptop to PDA to verizon data network...
You may want to first find out whether or not some of those Sprint features are available in your area. For example, Verizon has their own tv service but its not available everywhere.
Plus, do you need certain phones to use some of their features? Is switching to access those features going to cost you more due to the need to purchase a new phone?
Third, do you really need those features? Who cares about Spring music and Sprint TV? Do get sucked into the marketing of their services unless you feel like you truly are going to need it.
As for the cancellation fee - the courts have already ruled that Sprint's cancellation fees are illegal - you may be able to convince Verizon of the same if you get a naive cancellation CS person. Maybe be persuasive enough for them to waive it. (though I wouldnt count on it). You could try to hand in there long enough for the cancellation thing to make its way to the other carriers and then switch.
Also, when is your contract up?
If its the minutes that are the main thing, just get a new plan with Verizon, especially if most of your friends, family, colleagues, etc have Verizon - talking to them is free!
Everything Plus
You might also want to look into Sprint Everything Plus Referral program. It replaced sprint's SERO plan, and one of Sprint's execs has his info on his blog http://mcguireslaw.com/ (on the right).
From the Sprint's Everything Plus Refferal website:
This plan includes
* Unlimited data and messages: Web surfing, email, GPS Navigation, Sprint Music, Sprint TV®, BlackBerry® Internet Services (BIS), text, pictures, video
* Nationwide long distance and no roaming charges.
* Unlimited mobile to mobile, night calling starting at 7 p.m. and weekends.
for $79.99, you get 1000 anytime minutes. ($59.99 for 500)
I'm on the now gone SERO plan, and made the switch from Verizon. Verizon just couldn't compete with the price.
jmquinn said:
You might also want to look into Sprint Everything Plus Referral program. It replaced sprint's SERO plan, and one of Sprint's execs has his info on his blog http://mcguireslaw.com/ (on the right).
From the Sprint's Everything Plus Refferal website:
This plan includes
* Unlimited data and messages: Web surfing, email, GPS Navigation, Sprint Music, Sprint TV®, BlackBerry® Internet Services (BIS), text, pictures, video
* Nationwide long distance and no roaming charges.
* Unlimited mobile to mobile, night calling starting at 7 p.m. and weekends.
for $79.99, you get 1000 anytime minutes. ($59.99 for 500)
I'm on the now gone SERO plan, and made the switch from Verizon. Verizon just couldn't compete with the price.
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I agree that sprint has the best prices and some of the better phones. My problem is the service. Most everybody I know cries about how Sprint's service sucks. In areas that I get service, they do not. I would talk to as many people that live in your calling area that have both services and compare before just going for price. I would rather pay a little more and be able to make calls whenever and wherever I want.
My $0.02 worth.
Don't mean to bolster the debate here...but can I ask why you posted this in Titan Upgrading?
The xda forums are designed with sub forums for a reason. This really belongs in the Titan forum.
My opinion is, find out who has better service where you are, and take a look at the carriers of the people you talk to most. Stick with the carrier that serves these purposes. That's the only reason I'm still with Verizon.
nitro66215 said:
I agree that sprint has the best prices and some of the better phones. My problem is the service. Most everybody I know cries about how Sprint's service sucks. In areas that I get service, they do not. I would talk to as many people that live in your calling area that have both services and compare before just going for price. I would rather pay a little more and be able to make calls whenever and wherever I want.
My $0.02 worth.
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x2
While spring and verizon share many towers, sprint's coverage is a little lax compared to Verizon's.
There is a reason why nobody has a valid lawsuit against Verizon for claiming "Most Reliable Network"...
My fiance's family had sprint for the longest time and only recently switched to Verizon a few months ago due to poor service.
Whats the benefit to paying less when you cant use it as often?
(and no, I'm not a Verizon fanboy - just a CDMA fanboy Whatever you decide, just stay away from t-mobile and cingular)
deeznuts2 said:
x2
While spring and verizon share many towers, sprint's coverage is a little lax compared to Verizon's.
There is a reason why nobody has a valid lawsuit against Verizon for claiming "Most Reliable Network"...
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lol, yea and that reason has nothing to do with the fact that verizons network is any better....it has to do with how vague and subjective the claim is....if their motto was "Never have a Dropped Call Again on VZW", they would get sued to oblivion.....have you ever seen the show "The Best Damn Sports Show."?.....is it the best damn sports show?....hell no!....why don't you try to sue them.....lol....
in reality, it depends on where u are....i have been a sprint customer for 7 years and in my case, all over New Jersey/NYC/Philly, in the last 2 years i have had 0 dropped calls due to my sprint service. i cannot say the same for my friends with verizon, who also pay at least twice what i do monthly.....
yerp said:
in reality, it depends on where u are....i have been a sprint customer for 7 years and in my case, all over New Jersey/NYC/Philly, in the last 2 years i have had 0 dropped calls due to my sprint service. i cannot say the same for my friends with verizon, who also pay at least twice what i do monthly.....
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Exactly. Sprint may be perfect in some areas, but Verizon rules in my area.
Go for the better service overall. Would sprint activate you Vzw 6800? If not there's some additional up front cost.
Also depending upon you location you may have EVDO rev. A speeds. It wouldn't make a difference if you use DCD's (or No2Chem's) ROMs but you're still using the stock. If you stick with stock on sprint you'll have GPS and EVDO rev. A
Sprint has better prices. Thats about it. Also note that this phones picture mail (mms) feature is blocked by sprint.
I am not a fan of Verizion and I have plenty of issues with Verizion, but they have better service, and better coverage. That ends up being the bottom line for me.
I have been with verizon for about 10 years. Before they had the name verizon in my area. I pay 50% more than a similar SPRINT plan.
For me it boils down to having coverage in the remote areas around where I live and roaming in alaska. I even get data roaming in alaska, no charge. Sprint phones just quit working as soon as you get out of anchorage. Verizons roams with ACS and service fades, as there are no cell towers.
Verizon works better where I go and I pay for it.
Plus no MMS on sprint (mogul) would kill me.
I'm not a Verizon fanboy either- hate the phone selection and how long it takes to get new ones but I have way better coverage and have never had an issue getting my problems solved the first time out.
1) There was a recent article on MSN that was titled "Hate Sprint". It mentioned how Verizon is at a 72 rating while Sprint is rated at 56 in consumer satisfaction. The CEO of Sprint was quoted as saying "Verizon and AT&T are eating our lunch". The main problem according to the article is that Sprint lets everyone sign up and people can't pay thier bills when times are hard, poor customer service etc.
2) Sprint is now leasing all thier towers - meaning they sold thier towers to someone else in order to raise capital since they are in financial hot water. How can they build a better network when they don't even own thier own towers?
3) A friend of mine was with Verizon a long time ago and thought it was too expensive, he switched to Sprint and hated the service. He then switched to Nextel only to wind up with Sprint after thier merger and over the course of a couple of years his service has dropped considerably. He used to drop 2 calls in certain areas on his way home from work and it increased to 5 dropped calls over the last couple of months. He's now back with Verizon and much more happy.
Seriously, it boils down to how is the service in the areas where you normally travel and how often you need to talk to a customer service rep.
Good luck in your choice.
gc14 said:
Don't mean to bolster the debate here...but can I ask why you posted this in Titan Upgrading?
The xda forums are designed with sub forums for a reason. This really belongs in the Titan forum.
My opinion is, find out who has better service where you are, and take a look at the carriers of the people you talk to most. Stick with the carrier that serves these purposes. That's the only reason I'm still with Verizon.
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Click to collapse
Because this could be considered an upgrade in service...
deeznuts2 said:
x2
(Whatever you decide, just stay away from t-mobile and cingular)
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Hahaha, been there, done that. I agree!
Thank you everyone! I appreciate the feed back and will ask around my neighborhood to see what they think and what their experiences have been like. For some reason none of my carriers ever work in my house, yet everybody else's do...
It would seem the overall consensus here is that Sprint is cheaper (in price), but Verizon has better service (both customer and coverage).
I have a grandfathered SERO account on Sprint, and I mainly switched from Verizon for the price. Sprint was about half as much as an equal Verizon plan.
In my area, the Sprint coverage is good. I also have an ATT phone for work which kinda sucks at home for me.
If I am in an area where Sprint signal is low, I just force the phone to Roam, and then I'm on Verizon's network (free roaming). Bam!
indagroove said:
I have a grandfathered SERO account on Sprint, and I mainly switched from Verizon for the price. Sprint was about half as much as an equal Verizon plan.
In my area, the Sprint coverage is good. I also have an ATT phone for work which kinda sucks at home for me.
If I am in an area where Sprint signal is low, I just force the phone to Roam, and then I'm on Verizon's network (free roaming). Bam!
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Click to collapse
I was going to mention that too, that sprint has FREE roaming!!! so even if you are not on a "sprint tower" you can still make calls, so don't worry about the coverage!! if you go on sprint network, it will show you the roaming areas that are covered and its covered under your plan. The roaming area resembles allot like VZN... hhhmmmm!!!
So go for the better phones better price. And believe me, their customer service has done a 180 degree turn from where they were before. its actually pleasant to talk to them and they help you out!!!
I have thought about this rather heavily... here are some of the pro's and cons I came up with which generally coincide with what I've read in this thread... these are related to me going from Verizon (currently have) to Sprint
Pro (for sprint):
More frequent updates for PDA's (irrelevant i guess if u flash custom)
cheaper plans (money is money... high motivation)
quicker to get new models of phones
Instant lock GPS
Con (against sprint):
Service sucks compared to Verizon.. (cheaper is only better when u can use it)
No MMS
Worse customer service (only what I heard)
Honestly, what it comes down to is service... I can't speak from experience, but everyone in central ohio (where I live) who has had Sprint say they can be driving on the outerbelt and lose a call... that's just ridiculous for a larger city such as this to not have proper coverage in a radius around the city... cheaper is always a motivating factor but seriously, what's the point of paying less if you're going to be frustrated with loss of signal? that's my take... however, when/if sprint comes out with touch/pro before verizon i might be singing a different tune.
ok, so I picked up the VZW Touch Pro tonight. Everything is great except for the sucky feeling I got jipped on memory compared to the Sprint.
Those of you who bought the Sprint model and have Verizon service, did Verizon still honor any warranty or insurance service on it? My big fear is I pay cash to Sprint for the phone, flash it to work on Verizon, and then I drop it, etc.
While I don't think the memory limit is going to hurt me much today, with 6.5 coming out I suspect it might.
What to do, what to do...
I bought my TP from ebay, it worked great for a month then the charge port broke. I bought spare batteries and chargers and used it for a while because nobody (verizon or sprint) would warranty the phone. Then, a bad flash reset the phone to having a msl of NOT 000000 anddwiping the MIN and MDN back to 0's.
I bought a squaretrade warranty at the time from ebay, so the device is off getting fixed and I am using my titan again for the time being. I f they fix the phone (warranty was a little under $50) then it is the same price as insurance and I will be happy. I can only report my opinions after I receive a working device back though
Moral of this story: If you do not have the original receipt, HTC will not warranty it. Verizons insurance wont cover a sprint phone, most you would get back is a verizon Pro. Sprint won't touch it unless you have a line of service with them.
Hope this squaretrade deal works out...
Kdj,
I'd be really curious how this works out for you, as I have 29 days to decide if I want to go that route.
My Titan ear piece speaker died and VZW swapped it out no problem. I would hate to have something similar with the TP, and not be able to get it fixed.
Good luck!
Yeah, I will definitely chime in on this thread when I get it back. Should be within a week if they work as fast as they claim!
So far, I filed a claim online with them, they emailed me a prepaid UPS returns label and I printed it and stuck it on a box and it is enroute as we speak. If they are able to replace or repair it and have it back in a reasonable fashion I will be pleased.
I also would be very interested in seeing your results. I have a Verizon Touch Pro I got about 2 weeks ago and am loving it so far but also cant help but feel like I got jipped with the -96mb.......... but there is a certain ammount of security in buying from Verizon , you get great support and service for your Verizon device that you wont be getting for the Sprint one from either provider.
Anyways I am waiting to hear your results. Thanks!
Verizon only provides my data and voice access, XDA and PPCgeeks provide the rest!
As an update Squaretrade has received my pro, so I am really getting anxious as to how this proceeds from here. I have been doing research about squaretrade, and most things I hear are good. But I have yet to read anything but random posts or articles saying they are good. Does anybody know personally or can give testimony to the quality of worksmanship they can provide?
Would any body like to see a thread specifically devoted to Squaretrade warranties and feedback from actual users? If this pans out, a one year warranty from them is cheaper than most providers Asurion policies. Maybe I will start a thread in the general section...
Easy answer!
Guys listen up. I was with Verizon for several years and I must say their network and coverage is great. BUT Verizon's pricing is way up there and I was paying a lot every month for 2 Blackberries with data plans and 3000 minutes. $300+ per month got old after about a year of those outrageous bills kept coming each month. So I started shopping all the carriers service plans and NO carrier can compete with Sprint's pricing and plan packages or offer as much as Sprint does for the money. And these days money is an important thing to be using sparingly and we all need to watch our spending. So I jumped ship from Verizon and hopped on Sprint's "Simply Everything" plan and my bill for 2 pda's with unlimited everything Sprint has to offer is only half of what I was paying over at Verizon. And I was only getting 3000 minutes and data with nothing else. I had to pay extra for the text messaging plan. You get the idea...
So now that I got all that out of the way lets get to the question at hand. Which Touch Pro should a person go with??? Ofcourse I went with the Sprint version. (the Verizon version is too square and the sharp corners make it ugly to me as well as less memory and crippled ofcourse as always with Verizon devices). There are a few factors you need to concider when making your decision to stay with the Verizon version or to go with the Sprint version.
1. Network? First things first...decide which network works best for you where you will be using your service most of the time. If the network's coverage in your area blows then don't go with that carrier no matter which device they have that you want.
2. Pricing? If this is of any concern to you then there is an obvious winner in this dept. It's Sprint hands down! You get literally everything for one low flat rate so no suprize phone bills.
3. Devices offered by the two carriers Sprint and Verizon. Both carriers have nice offerings BUT Verizon is famous for crippling their phones while Sprint does not. (another big reason I left Verizon... locked gps on my verizon Blackberry and others and forcing customers to pay extra for a factory equipped gps chip had me furious to say the least! Sprint devices have gps that is as free as a bird to use with any 3rd party app of your choosing).
4. Customer Service??? Honestly Verizon and Sprint both have good customer service so that's not such a concern here.
5. Device warranty? Both carriers are equal in that dept. too. Very good for both.
OK... knowing what I know now, if I were you guys I would return the Verizon Touch Pro asap if you are still within your 30 day "no worry guarantee" period and go over to Sprint and pick up their Touch Pro which is better in every way. Appearance is nicer looking, more memory, gps isn't locked, etc. And ofcourse you are going to save a lot of money AND get a lot more at the same time. That's a win win if you ask me!
Since I've been with Sprint, apx. 6 months) I have had very good network coverage, call quality, etc. It is at least as good as Verizon if not better. Oh there is one thing that is definetely better with Sprint... it's data speeds are far faster than Verizon. This I do know for a fact because I used data with Verizon on several pda devices the past 3 years or so. Sprint's data speeds are faster. If you are stuck in a Verizon contract then your stuck unless you are willing to pay early termination fees. If you're currently with Sprint then you are in the right place. As for using a Sprint branded Touch Pro on Verizon's network, I didn't know Verizon started allowing non Verizon branded devices on it's network. But if they do then that's all good but you will not be doing the Sprint Touch Pro any justice since Verizon doesn't offer what Sprint does. And it would be simply dumb to activate a Verizon branded Touch Pro on Sprint's network, if that's even possible. I tried to activate my Verizon BlackBerry Curve on my Sprint account and that was a huge big fat negative. The device esn's are in each carrier's data bases and if it's from a different carrier then they will not activate it period. That goes for both Sprint and Verizon. I know Sprint will not do it. Verizon on the other hand unless they just recently started allowing non Verizon branded devices on their network, they will not do it either. The bottom line in my post is to go with the better device (Sprint's Touch Pro) on a very good network with awesome plan pricing as well as all the bells and whistles that you can't get with Verizon. Did I mention Sprint is a lot cheaper??? HELL YES I DID!!!
It's a no brainer guys. times are getting rough so you better start thinking about saving $$$ anywhere you can! And we all no that we will pay our cell phone bills no matter what and not pay something else if it comes down to it. Sorry for the long post and I hope this helps some people put some thought into the subject.
That is the classic Sprint convert post
Thanks for your opinion, but sprint and verizons data networks are prety much the same. In the northwest for the most part in far out places that I travel, sprint users have to roam ont verizon network to make calls and data roaming is a whole other animal. I agree that sprint has better pricing and their coverage is getting better. Sprint does not have any roaming agreements with ACS to my knowledge, which serves alaska especially on the kenai peninsula where I travel often. I am not sure if there are many if any GSM coverage up there, as no one in alaska outside of anchorage that I have ran into uses ATT or tmobile. These are my observations and I could be wrong, but when I take my verizon phones to alaska, they play nice with ACS and even recently have allowed EVDO data roaming for me which is nice. I even roam with telus and bell out of canada for reasonable rates. Lets not start another Ford/Chevy/Dodge/Verizon/Sprint/ATT debate
Kinda back on topic, I started a thread in the general section regarding getting opinions on Squaretrade if anyone is looking for options on insuring their Sprint/Alltel/whatever device on a foreign network:
HERE And I hope we can get some feedback.
kdj67f said:
That is the classic Sprint convert post
Thanks for your opinion, but sprint and verizons data networks are prety much the same. In the northwest for the most part in far out places that I travel, sprint users have to roam ont verizon network to make calls and data roaming is a whole other animal. I agree that sprint has better pricing and their coverage is getting better. Sprint does not have any roaming agreements with ACS to my knowledge, which serves alaska especially on the kenai peninsula where I travel often. I am not sure if there are many if any GSM coverage up there, as no one in alaska outside of anchorage that I have ran into uses ATT or tmobile. These are my observations and I could be wrong, but when I take my verizon phones to alaska, they play nice with ACS and even recently have allowed EVDO data roaming for me which is nice. I even roam with telus and bell out of canada for reasonable rates. Lets not start another Ford/Chevy/Dodge/Verizon/Sprint/ATT debate
Kinda back on topic, I started a thread in the general section regarding getting opinions on Squaretrade if anyone is looking for options on insuring their Sprint/Alltel/whatever device on a foreign network:
HERE And I hope we can get some feedback.
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It's true Verizon has great coverage and roaming agreements. In your case living way out where you live/work you probably don't have too many choices and gsm networks just suck so that's totally out of the question, especially for you. As for most people, we live in metro areas that have good coverage where we commute on a daily basis. As for my post being a "classic" Sprint convert... sorry I wasted your time but it's my personal take and nothing that needs to be titled as classic or however you see it way out in the boonies where you live.
Back to the post topic... Does Verizon even allow non Verizon devices to be activated on their network? The Sprint devices esn's will not be in Verizon's database so even if you flash the Sprint Touch Pro with Verizon firmware that's still not going to change the esn or rebrand the device. Someone enlighten me if this carrier policy has been lifted...
There is a large thread on ppcgeeks devoted to getting Sprints touch pro on verizon network. I have one that was fully functional (minus the charge port issues stated) and the process has worked for various other HTC models including the diamond and mogul too. If you can load a verizon PRL on a device and change the MSL to 000000, it can be on verizons network. Verizon customers can call *228 and choose option 3, which programs whatever phone your calling from to your account and number.
And calm down, I was teasing you about being a sprint convert!
So technically, we know we CAN use a Sprint phone on the Verizon network. It's just the "What if it dies" factor is still there. It's not an inexpensive device, so the thought of carrying it around all day, potentially losing it, is pretty deterring.
Let's hope your warranty works out
I agree with tx_dbs_tx. He gave pros and cons for both sides. I personally agree with him choosing Sprint's version over Verizon's for the performance, memory, and looks of the device. The Sprint Pro is slick and sturdy, there data speeds ARE faster than Verizon's and I have seen the numbers to prove it. Sprint's data is the #1 reason I have service with them, #2 reason is the great prices, #3 the insurance and service and repair is nice and have always had good luck with that. If you REALLY want to do it, and have found the correct way to use the device on that network then go for it, but you won't be disappointed with Sprint.
Thank you all for your opinions, but the original topic was about insuring the device, not which service is better.
As a little update, they sent me an email today saying my device had been repaired and it has already left via UPS second day air. Got an email with tracking number from UPS too. I think they may exchange it for a refurb unit for how fast it took them, but I am not too concerned with that. Post back with final results in a few days.
So far, I am pleased with my experience regarding Squaretrade.
For anyone interested, Squaretrade fixed my charge port and shipped my Touch pro back the same day they received it. I got the actual same device back and the port works and I have been able to reprogram it and get it working again. For $47.99 and no deductible for part failure I would definitely say it was worth it to buy their warranty.
They even replaced the little friction slide in my stylus hole that I accidently ripped out trying to take it apart They stand behind their claims and are inexpensive, so I would recommend them to anyone buying phones off of ebay.
I bought a sprint TP on ebay after trying the phone @ both Sprint and Verizon. The verizon phone had a lag by comparison. Memory is the key here. Interestingly enough the Verizon party line is that they lowered the memory to keep the cost down. HMMM... They still charge more than Sprint for the phone.
Moving the phone off Sprint to Verizon was not for the faint of heart, but not all that difficult if you are willing to invest the time. The one thing you will have to put up with (at least I have not figured it out) is that the phone will show that you are roaming at all times.
Oh, and the Sprint phone looks better...
IMHO
You can definately move devices between networks.
You need QPST 2.7.3+, DUMA KEYS, YOUR MSID, bITPIM, MODEM DRIVER, and some guts.
You can find good instructions and tools @ PPC GEEKS.
Search "Sprint Touch Pro on VZW Network Tutorial "
MM
mike2037 said:
I bought a sprint TP on ebay after trying the phone @ both Sprint and Verizon. The verizon phone had a lag by comparison. Memory is the key here. Interestingly enough the Verizon party line is that they lowered the memory to keep the cost down. HMMM... They still charge more than Sprint for the phone.
Moving the phone off Sprint to Verizon was not for the faint of heart, but not all that difficult if you are willing to invest the time. The one thing you will have to put up with (at least I have not figured it out) is that the phone will show that you are roaming at all times.
Oh, and the Sprint phone looks better...
IMHO
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There are some patched PRLs over at ppcgeeks that gets rid of the roaming triangle, and you can use QPST to change your carrier banner. I never was able to update my ERI.
Thanks. I actually found those after leaving my post. The ERI did not work for me either.
I'm on a legacy Alltel Friends and Family Smartpack plan, and even managed to keep it when upgrading to the Tbolt and it's soon-to-be dead unlimited 4g plan. I've recently heard that because I have this plan I may actually be provisioned for unlimited tethering. However, coming across information about it has proven difficult. I don't have a copy of my contract, (my father did, but misplaced it, apparently) nor is it listed with my other receipts on our My Verizon Account.
Anybody in a similar situation, or knowledgeble about past Alltel contracts have any info, or know where I can find more info? Even Alltel's drab website is of no help, seeing as They only operate in six states now, none of which are mine, and don't have information on this service plan listed anywhere as far as I saw.
what is the exact name of the plan you are on? Ill look into it tomorrow at work.
Friends & Family20 S/P 2000
S/P = Smart Pack
I'm inclined to think it might be the lack of forbidding of tethering in the contract that would enable me to do so (whereas VZW contracts do specifically forbid it) rather than some specifically stated provision. According to my account we've had this plan since 2005, which was still a time well before the present in which tethering wasn't yet an issue
for carriers.
Anyway, I appreciate your looking into this.
Oh I see. While I cant answer 100%, heres my take on it being a verizon rep and rather familure with the way verizon hamdles grandfathering and ect.
If you where on an Alltell plan that included free tethering, you would be good to go. But thats not the case. There is no verizon or alltell plan that includes free tethering, it is a feature that can be added for an additional fee. Unless u own a palm pre 1 or pixi that is.
So I would have to say that ur S.O.L. To have free tethering after june 16th. without using a third party app.
Sent from my ADR6400L using XDA App
If you signed up for a $30 unlimited 4G data plan, that would be a Verizon feature since Alltel never had a 4G network. So even though Verizon grandfathered your voice plan rate, the data plan would be governed by Verizon's terms and conditions, including its non-tethering provision.
Actually, your whole plan is probably governed by Verizon's terms and conditions. They just put you on a rate plan that matched the prices/features of your old Alltel rate plan.
stayin100 said:
Oh I see. While I cant answer 100%, heres my take on it being a verizon rep and rather familure with the way verizon hamdles grandfathering and ect.
If you where on an Alltell plan that included free tethering, you would be good to go. But thats not the case. There is no verizon or alltell plan that includes free tethering, it is a feature that can be added for an additional fee. Unless u own a palm pre 1 or pixi that is.
So I would have to say that ur S.O.L. To have free tethering after june 16th. without using a third party app.
Sent from my ADR6400L using XDA App
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I'm on the FRIENDS & FAMILY10 S/P 500. I did have unlimited data and tethering with Alltel. They used to offer it years ago, and when they started charging for it I was grandfathered in. I have been round and round with different Verizon employees and ultimately I have won 70% of the battles. What's funny is if I go into a couple different local stores that still have some of the old Alltel employees they actually remember me and have told me that Verizon is doing everything they can to squash any old Alltel plan and or promised features. I have even had some Verizon employees tell me just to keep doing it and not worry about it.
Same as when I go to get a new phone and they want to sign me up on a new Verizon contract. I tell them that I was told that I wouldn't have to when I was with Alltel and that none of my features would change. I specifically asked about my tethering and I was told that yes everything would stay the exact same.
Same as when I go to get a new phone and they want to sign me up on a new Verizon contract. I tell them that I was told that I wouldn't have to when I was with Alltel and that none of my features would change. I specifically asked about my tethering and I was told that yes everything would stay the exact same.
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if you still have your corporate takeover "we'll honor you current plan" letter, then just take it with you into the store.
Every once in a while I go out hiking or to the lake or some dangerous (for my phone) place with friends or family. I haven't gone anywhere yet since I've had my LTE but one trip is coming up soon. Here's the thing though, I don't feel comfortable taking my LTE in case something happens to it but I still have my 3D and would like to take that one instead.
Here's the question:
Can I easily switch between the LTE and 3D using Sprints online "Activate a new phone" feature? Also is there a monthly limit to how many times I can swap devices?
I know it wasn't a problem before (with CDMA devices) I just don't know if LTE devices are activated in a different way and if it would cause problems when switching the activation. I'd rather not call every time because it's more convenient to switch it online.
I would normally try this out but since I haven't had my 3D activated on this account I'd get an activation fee and I don't want that until I know for sure I can use it back and forth. Normally I'd ask a rep but the chat is offline atm and I hate waiting on the phone for one.
Racer Of All said:
Every once in a while I go out hiking or to the lake or some dangerous (for my phone) place with friends or family. I haven't gone anywhere yet since I've had my LTE but one trip is coming up soon. Here's the thing though, I don't feel comfortable taking my LTE in case something happens to it but I still have my 3D and would like to take that one instead.
Here's the question:
Can I easily switch between the LTE and 3D using Sprints online "Activate a new phone" feature? Also is there a monthly limit to how many times I can swap devices?
I know it wasn't a problem before (with CDMA devices) I just don't know if LTE devices are activated in a different way and if it would cause problems when switching the activation. I'd rather not call every time because it's more convenient to switch it online.
I would normally try this out but since I haven't had my 3D activated on this account I'd get an activation fee and I don't want that until I know for sure I can use it back and forth. Normally I'd ask a rep but the chat is offline atm and I hate waiting on the phone for one.
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Well speaking from one who knows...I have done the switching thing too numerous times to count! I always get the upgrades for whatever plan member is up for an upgrade and I keep the new phone and pass down the old one (since I pay the upgrade). Plus, I always have somebody on the plan that has a broken phone and need to switch to backup and then back (there are two accounts and 7 family members).
You will only get the activation fee when opening a new line of service with a new phone or buying a new phone as an upgrade. Switching between phones that you already own has never charged me a dime. And there is no difference in terms of your purposes (4g vs. LTE) in switching those two phones.
Good Luck
greek goddess said:
Well speaking from one who knows...I have done the switching thing too numerous times to count! I always get the upgrades for whatever plan member is up for an upgrade and I keep the new phone and pass down the old one (since I pay the upgrade). Plus, I always have somebody on the plan that has a broken phone and need to switch to backup and then back (there are two accounts and 7 family members).
You will only get the activation fee when opening a new line of service with a new phone or buying a new phone as an upgrade. Switching between phones that you already own has never charged me a dime. And there is no difference in terms of your purposes (4g vs. LTE) in switching those two phones.
Good Luck
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Awesome thanks for the reply at least now I know that I can switch as many times as I want and there will be no activation fee.
The only thing they worries me is that this got brought up once before but we never got an answer as to the whole LTE/Wimax thing. I just remember reading somewhere that they were two different "plans" and swapping lte/Wimax devices wasn't adviced.
Sent from my EVO LTE
Racer Of All said:
Awesome thanks for the reply at least now I know that I can switch as many times as I want and there will be no activation fee.
The only thing they worries me is that this got brought up once before but we never got an answer as to the whole LTE/Wimax thing. I just remember reading somewhere that they were two different "plans" and swapping lte/Wimax devices wasn't adviced.
Sent from my EVO LTE
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Switching from my old Wimax shift, there wasn't any plan change. I couldn't activate it online and I did have to call, but was told that was only because lte/wimax looked different in their system and they had to manually switch it over.
You shouldn't have a problem other than maybe having to give Sprint a call ^^
I currently have a rooted HTC Evo 4G LTE with Sprint, the contract is over and Sprint no longer wants to offer unlimited data. So it is time for me to find a new provider, a new phone.
Which provider has the best 4G LTE signal, which would be the best phone.
My requirements are that the phone be able to be rooted, and that I have control of the bootloader.
As far as I know HTC is the only bootloader that you can have control.
I think I want to go with T-Mobile, since they have a sensible unlimited plan...which would be the best phone for this project.
bgduece22 said:
I currently have a rooted HTC Evo 4G LTE with Sprint, the contract is over and Sprint no longer wants to offer unlimited data. So it is time for me to find a new provider, a new phone.
Which provider has the best 4G LTE signal, which would be the best phone.
My requirements are that the phone be able to be rooted, and that I have control of the bootloader.
As far as I know HTC is the only bootloader that you can have control.
I think I want to go with T-Mobile, since they have a sensible unlimited plan...which would be the best phone for this project.
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I switched over to T-Mobile and a n5. Fabulous coverage and insane speeds. Although of course T-Mobile coverage isn't as great as Verizon and AT&T. Check sensorly for your area. But I do highly recommend T-Mobile. Also, Nexus boot loader isn't controllable. But the amount of development for the device is through the roof. If you're a flashaholic like me, then the n5 is the phone for you.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
bgduece22 said:
I currently have a rooted HTC Evo 4G LTE with Sprint, the contract is over and Sprint no longer wants to offer unlimited data. So it is time for me to find a new provider, a new phone.
Which provider has the best 4G LTE signal, which would be the best phone.
My requirements are that the phone be able to be rooted, and that I have control of the bootloader.
As far as I know HTC is the only bootloader that you can have control.
I think I want to go with T-Mobile, since they have a sensible unlimited plan...which would be the best phone for this project.
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Why is sprint making you change your plan? Did you go to the store? Because upgrading doesn't always entail a new plan, if you went to the store they may be trying to sell you more than the phone. Just my 2 cents.
Sent from my EVO using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Maybe they were promoting their new Easy Pay plans.
aarsyl said:
Maybe they were promoting their new Easy Pay plans.
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Sounds like it.
Sent from my EVO LTE
aarsyl said:
Maybe they were promoting their new Easy Pay plans.
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That's exactly what they're doing. However, contact Sprint before you purchase a new phone and inform them that you would like to be grandfathered into your old plan. From what I was told, this can be done, but only BEFORE you purchase a new phone.
Given, you'll still deal with the Easy Pay, but same plan. You could also possibly just get your phone from Best Buy Mobile and still get a phone under the normal discounted rates for a two year plan.
I've heard that the Easy Pay is the new plan for everyone, and Sprint with no longer issue contracts, but month-to-month service. Payments for your phone will be divided over a course of 2yrs, I think, but it is not the same as an actual plan. You will have to pay the remaining balance for you phone as opposed to a termination fee.
I'm not sure how I feel about that...they told me that I can upgrade through Easy Pay, but I need to speak to them in person to find out the actual details and the benefits.
aarsyl said:
I've heard that the Easy Pay is the new plan for everyone, and Sprint with no longer issue contracts, but month-to-month service. Payments for your phone will be divided over a course of 2yrs, I think, but it is not the same as an actual plan. You will have to pay the remaining balance for you phone as opposed to a termination fee.
I'm not sure how I feel about that...they told me that I can upgrade through Easy Pay, but I need to speak to them in person to find out the actual details and the benefits.
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From what I've just experienced, you don't have to do easy pay. I changed my plan to the new "my way" plan and I can get my upgraded device anyway I want. I could use easy pay or purchase it outright at the discounted rate. I also have the option to use a third party vendor, like wirefly or on Amazon, which is what I'm doing. With easy pay, as it was explained to me by sprint rep, you pay a small amount up front. Then they bill you monthly, over 24 months and you end up paying full (non discounted) price for the device you choose. But I didn't have to change my plan, I chose to.
EVOlved human
atheistevofreak said:
From what I've just experienced, you don't have to do easy pay. I changed my plan to the new "my way" plan and I can get my upgraded device anyway I want. I could use easy pay or purchase it outright at the discounted rate. I also have the option to use a third party vendor, like wirefly or on Amazon, which is what I'm doing. With easy pay, as it was explained to me by sprint rep, you pay a small amount up front. Then they bill you monthly, over 24 months and you end up paying full (non discounted) price for the device you choose. But I didn't have to change my plan, I chose to.
EVOlved human
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Easy Pay sounds similar to the now-defunct "One-Up" plan. I believe you had to pay the taxes on the full, non-discounted price up front when upgrading, and then paying for the phone over the next two years, as I recall. Any remaining balance at the end of the two year period had to be paid in full.
Sent from my EVO LTE
I'm kind of hesitant to switch to another carrier mainly because of what is going on with a merger between them and T-mobile. T-mobile recently bought all of Verizon's 700MHz bandwidth, meaning better LTE coverage for Sprint as soon as the merger goes through, if it goes through at all.
I am skeptical about the success of the merger. Sprint will finally be a powerhouse, and I don't think that the regulators want that to happen.
I'm curious about what all the last 2 posters are privy to. I'm about to upgrade my device, and when I look on sprint site, it would be only 100$ for n5 or HTC One. But I went to sprint store and it was 50$ + 16/no and get 12/mo upgrade, but will also F up all other lines on my family plan. I don't wanna pay monthly for device, I wanna pay up front and forget about it, but I do want 12moupgrades.
All that said,on a 25mi trip, I just compared my LTE speed tests with my girls tmo speed tests, and hers were consistently higher than mine. And her device is a 4yr old pyramid that doesn't even have radios to accept tmo LTE. But hers kicked my ass. I wanna hear from anyone who has ideas on how to test them, or any secret info about why they think sprint may be about to be awesome. Again, while my LTE service speed tested about 3mbps on avg, her old tmo (no LTE) consistently got way better than my LTE in same places.
Word love tohearsome thoughts,cuz I'm ready to jump ship.
Sent from my EVO 4G LTE using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
scottspa74 said:
I'm curious about what all the last 2 posters are privy to. I'm about to upgrade my device, and when I look on sprint site, it would be only 100$ for n5 or HTC One. But I went to sprint store and it was 50$ + 16/no and get 12/mo upgrade, but will also F up all other lines on my family plan. I don't wanna pay monthly for device, I wanna pay up front and forget about it, but I do want 12moupgrades.
All that said,on a 25mi trip, I just compared my LTE speed tests with my girls tmo speed tests, and hers were consistently higher than mine. And her device is a 4yr old pyramid that doesn't even have radios to accept tmo LTE. But hers kicked my ass. I wanna hear from anyone who has ideas on how to test them, or any secret info about why they think sprint may be about to be awesome. Again, while my LTE service speed tested about 3mbps on avg, her old tmo (no LTE) consistently got way better than my LTE in same places.
Word love tohearsome thoughts,cuz I'm ready to jump ship.
Sent from my EVO 4G LTE using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
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My thoughts on this: if the merge was ever to come to pass, then you would technically be starting over as a new customer with Sprint. While I don't think that the merge will be successful, just keep that in the back of your mind.
More importantly, how is voice service with Tmo compared to Sprint? Which had more dead/low signal zones? And which device gives you better service at home? Yes, data is vital, but these are still phones, primarily. You have no idea how much you need good voice service until it starts to mess up, then you'll wish that you didn't make the jump.
Try using different apps, like SignalCheck Lite from the play store to compare the signal difference in various locations. Use both phones to leave voicemails on a third phone (land line or cell phone, doesn't matter), and replay both to see which is clearer. This last test will be a little skewed, of course, since you are using two different devices, and your LTE has newer tech inside it.
Lastly, if you want to make the jump, just take the time to test the Tmo network (or any other network) before you decide. This is not the type of mistake that you will want to regret. On another note, if the money being saved is worth the potential aggravation, then go for it. I'm not bashing Tmo in any way whatsoever, for I have been considering making the jump as well, but I'm quite comfortable with my Sprint service, and the repair center that I go to tends not to ask too much questions. Just don't bring them a rooted phone, and all is well.
Appreciate the lengthy feedback. My nearest sprint repair center loves seeing the cool sh1t on the ROMs I bring in, lol. Lucky me. That said, tmo looks like it'd be a little cheaper, not much. But their data speeds, even on 3g are 20x faster than the LTE I get from sprint. So many pros, so many Con's. Actually, they'll pay my etf, and there aren't many Con's. Prob be switching soo. And yearly upgrades, which I like. That said, I like that sprint leans on OEMZs t9 get the hardware they know customers want.
Sent from my EVO 4G LTE using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
scottspa74 said:
Appreciate the lengthy feedback. My nearest sprint repair center loves seeing the cool sh1t on the ROMs I bring in, lol. Lucky me. That said, tmo looks like it'd be a little cheaper, not much. But their data speeds, even on 3g are 20x faster than the LTE I get from sprint. So many pros, so many Con's. Actually, they'll pay my etf, and there aren't many Con's. Prob be switching soo. And yearly upgrades, which I like. That said, I like that sprint leans on OEMZs t9 get the hardware they know customers want.
Sent from my EVO 4G LTE using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
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You've sparked my interest. How does T-Mobile do data? Is it truly unlimited? Or do they cap your speed after a certain usage?