Nextel: How My Business Gets Done
Written: Jun 26 '01 (Updated Dec 14 '01)
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Pros: "Always on" Internet; No dropped calls; Customer Service; Calling Options
Cons: Lack of rural coverage; Slow activation process
The Bottom Line: Nextel... It's how business gets done, and how Dick and Jane could maximize their wireless services.
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| karentonyjake's Full Review: Nextel Mobile Phone Service in Washington/Baltimor... |
Nextel had business in mind when they developed their service. Their coverage is solid, where they claim there's coverage, phone calls rarely, if ever drop, and the sound quality is exceptional. They lack rural coverage, however, and their activation process can be laborious, and even painful, depending on their system backlogs.
By virtue of overall coverage, I'd argue that Nextel doesn't cut it like Verizon, Cingular and AT&T do. However, where Nextel claims they have coverage, they actually do, and boy is that solid! In the DC area that's just about everywhere, except Vienna, where coverage has not been optimized.
Nextel offers every feature I could possibly imagine for the current state of wireless services. They have phones packed w/features (e.g., speakerphone; Direct Connect; "alway on" internet; voice activated dialing; built-in Java applications) and calling plans that shine (e.g., free incoming calls; no roaming charges; free nights/weekends option). The competition has variations of these offerings.
If you're looking for a carrier that has "cool" phones w/useless bells and whistles (e.g., Sprint PCS), Nextel probably shouldn't be your choice. If you want a carrier whose focus is on providing a wireless device and service that meets current demands (e.g., internet access; two-way communications), then consider Nextel.
Nextel doesn't have analog back-up, but that's Ok if you're not traveling to the boondocks. If you need analog back-up, consider another carrier. If you need service w/a myriad of calling options and phone features, consider Nextel.
UPDATE (10/18/2001): After other painful experimentation processes w/other carriers recently, including Verizon, Cingular and AT&T, I have returned to Nextel, and I'm very happy about it. The calling plan options (i.e. free incoming calls, unlimited nights/weekends), reception, sound quality, and always-on internet access make Nextel my favorite carrier. The remaining downsides include no analog back-up and/or rural coverage and a limited selection of phones. Even my wife, who has patiently endured my obsession w/cell phones and their features admits that the reception and call quality of Nextel far exceeds that of her carrier and my ex-carrier, Verizon. Good job, Nextel!
UPDATE (12/14/2001): I'd like to retract my statement about Nextel not having a good selection of phones. Last month, I purchased the i90c and love it! It's the exact same phone as the v60, but a little larger and equipped with a duplex speakerphone and Direct Connect (2-way radio). I love the phone, and am continually impressed with the quality of Nextel's service. Without a doubt, it's the best service I've used in the past 7 years.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 80/month
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Epinions.com ID:
karentonyjake
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Location: Alexandria, Virginia
Reviews written: 23
Trusted by: 5 members
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