Difference between revisions of "Cell phones"
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| − | + | Advice on '''cell phones''' for people new to the area. | |
| − | == | + | ==Networks== |
| − | + | NYC has four networks: | |
| − | + | ===Verizon=== | |
| + | Verizon has by far the best coverage; you'll get reception whether you're underground, in an elevator, or on the 13th story. However, it comes with a premium price. And if you're on a family plan, it may be difficult to get a replacement if you lose or break your phone. | ||
| − | == | + | ===AT&T=== |
| − | + | AT&T has an average signal. It's not as good as Verizon but better than T-Mobile. The customer service is crappy though. Columbia students have a [https://www.wireless.att.com/business/authenticate/?_requestid=235890 20% discount]. | |
| − | ==T-Mobile== | + | ===T-Mobile=== |
| − | + | T-Mobile has several reasonably priced plans, but its signal on the [[Morningside Heights campus]] has a few dead spots. Notably, you won't get any reception while crossing in front of [[Butler Library]]. If you're looking for a [[:w:Pay as you go (phone)|pay-as-you-go]] plan, T-Mobile is probably the cheapest network. | |
| − | + | ===Sprint=== | |
| + | Sprint has a spotty signal and poor customer service. In 2005 and 2006, Sprint made major improvements to its infrastructure (including adding new cell towers), changing the Columbia dead-zone to a reliable level of coverage. Some areas on campus still have a poor signal, especially within buildings. However, coverage outside of Columbia's campus is very strong. Columbia offers an 18% discount to students/faculty/alumni for phone purchases as well as a 5% discount on monthly plans. | ||
| − | + | [[Category:Services]] | |
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Latest revision as of 21:42, 29 September 2013
Advice on cell phones for people new to the area.
Contents
Networks
NYC has four networks:
Verizon
Verizon has by far the best coverage; you'll get reception whether you're underground, in an elevator, or on the 13th story. However, it comes with a premium price. And if you're on a family plan, it may be difficult to get a replacement if you lose or break your phone.
AT&T
AT&T has an average signal. It's not as good as Verizon but better than T-Mobile. The customer service is crappy though. Columbia students have a 20% discount.
T-Mobile
T-Mobile has several reasonably priced plans, but its signal on the Morningside Heights campus has a few dead spots. Notably, you won't get any reception while crossing in front of Butler Library. If you're looking for a pay-as-you-go plan, T-Mobile is probably the cheapest network.
Sprint
Sprint has a spotty signal and poor customer service. In 2005 and 2006, Sprint made major improvements to its infrastructure (including adding new cell towers), changing the Columbia dead-zone to a reliable level of coverage. Some areas on campus still have a poor signal, especially within buildings. However, coverage outside of Columbia's campus is very strong. Columbia offers an 18% discount to students/faculty/alumni for phone purchases as well as a 5% discount on monthly plans.
