Difference between revisions of "Cell phones"
(Correct Cingular to AT&T and include discount information) |
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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. | 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. | ||
− | ==Cingular== | + | ==AT&T (Formerly Cingular)== |
− | + | 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== |
Revision as of 21:28, 26 January 2009
Several cell phone networks are available in New York City.
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 (Formerly Cingular)
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 the best network. It costs $0.10 per minute, and credit lasts an entire year.
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.