AboutDebiN Expertise I can answer questions on cellular phones, the physical device, the network, contracts, billing, ordering, porting and what to look for when purchasing cell phones. I am located in the United States. I am an expert on BlackBerrys, Treos, HTC devices and iPhones as well as cellphones and aircards. I have over 15 years of experience in both the wireless and wireline world with the carriers. I have a lot of knowledge regarding the wireless providers - their services, prices and policies, both GSM (AT&T (formerly Cingular) and T-Mobile) and CDMA (Verizon, Sprint/Nextel (iDEN)). I am very familiar with the individual devices and their specifications. I can also answer questions regarding BlackBerrys, iPhones and other PDAs, both Palm-based and Windows-based. I can troubleshoot most any problem someone is having with their cellular device or with the provider.
Experience Over 15 years in the Telecom industry working for the carriers with individuals, small business, medium business and large corporations(Fortune 500)
Education/Credentials Master's in Telecommunications
Question I have a K1m which I guess is on the old system from what they tell me. I want to get a smart phone that will work with the Internet feature. Is this possible and do I need to get on the new plans to do this? I know this is asking a lot, but could you tell me which ones would work? I really appreciate your time and thank you very much!
Answer The Device that you have works on the iDEN network. This isn't the "old system", this is actually a current network used for Nextel and Boost. This network allows access to the internet and other features. However, if you want a SmartPhone so that you can get email and take advantage of other features and benefits of a SmartPhone, then your best bet is to switch over to the Sprint side of the house (which works on the CDMA network) or even the hybrid side (with a device that works on both the iDEN and CDMA network) from Sprint. There will be several determining factors, in my opinion. First, would be whether Sprint service works where you live. If it does, then it's a no brainer, go with a new Sprint Instinct or Palm Pre or BlackBerry, for example. They will provide you with information about the appropriate plan, etc. If Only iDEN service works where you are, then you will be much more limited and can only choose from the "Boost" phones. When you get a new phone, they will also tell you what the appropriate plans are, etc. Whatever you do, please get your new phone directly from Sprint (who sells Boost today) and don't even consider getting someone on-line through a third party. Any Boost branded device will work for you. I hope this helps. Thanks. DebiN
