Joni Blecher, a.k.a. the Cell Phone Diva, wants to answer all your questions about cell phones, service plans, and wireless connectivity.
Send her a question!
Pushing PTT
Q: I'd like to get the skinny on the Push To Talk (PTT) service offered by Verizon. I am a current customer and would like to use it, but I have heard mixed reviews.
--AC
A: Verizon's PTT service is different from Nextel's, which functions more like a voice walkie-talkie feature. Though the idea is the same, the implementation is quite different. When you use the Verizon PTT service, you're basically making a call over the company's wireless data network, instead of its voice network (think VoIP), and that's why some users experience mixed service quality.
Forget the extras
Q: I like my current LG flip phone, but I need a new one. Are there any basic models without all the icing (video, camera, etc.)? I just want a small pocket phone to--get this--just talk on!!!
--Dave
A: Dave, I like your style! Cell phones for talking only--now there's an idea. Seriously, believe it or not, about a third of all cell phones offered by carriers provide just the basics. Since I don't know your carrier but do know that you like LG mobiles, here are a few models from different service providers that fit your criteria:
Car phones
Q: My husband and I are the proud owners of a 2004 Toyota Prius with the Bluetooth package, and we have Sprint as our wireless carrier. We would love to find out about new phones, including some from Sprint, that would work with the Prius.
--Amy
A: Recently, Sprint announced it will be releasing a Bluetooth-enabled handset, the Sprint PCS Vision Smart Device PPC-6601, which will run Windows Mobile 2003 Second Edition. This Pocket PC phone should also have the standard Bluetooth hands-free profile enabled. That means that it will work with the Bluetooth profile in the Prius. However, to be sure, check for compatiblity here.
One other suggestion: If you do purchase the PPC-6601, find out about the return policy (it should be about 14 days). If the unit doesn't work with your car, you can always return it.
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