I am writing this to you using the U720 on my iBook. You can use this method on any Mac G3 and up. I put the package here Ovation U720 Mac Driver.
Once you activate and update the U720 on a Windows computer, click the dmg file to uncompress it on the Mac. There is a Read Me file. Read it! It will explain how to set up everything else.
Here is a low down:
Wait a moment, the go to the Apple icon in the top left bar. Click System Preferences. Go to Network.
Under PPP put in the provider, put #777 into the phone number. Leave the rest blank. Click Apply Now.
Click the Modem button. Choose Sprint PCS Vision from the drop down menu of modems. Uncheck "Enable Error Correction". Uncheck "Wait for Dial Tone". Check "Show Modem Status." Click Apply Now.
You will see a little phone modem on the top bar near a piece of pie that indicates the Airport connection. Choose "Connect". If it does not connect, make sure to click it again and choose the Sprint U720 from the menu.
Guess what? You are up and running!
One quirky thing: I had to plug in both USB connectors. This usually only has to be done when there is not enough power. My light was on, but it wasn't "juicing". If the Mac has trouble recognizing the modem, you might try plugging both in.
Enjoy!
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Monday, January 15, 2007
New Meaning to Shanghaied
When someone was kidnapped, back in the day it was called "Shanghaied". Today, we worry more about our kids than we did even 30 years ago. Now a cell phone keeps our kids safer (as long as the phones aren't dumped along the way).
From Shanghai Daily News:
Shanghai Telecom, the city's largest fixed-network operator, has teamed with the Shanghai Education Commission to launch a handset for children to allow parents to check their child's location by global positioning system, Shanghai Daily reported.
The company sent 2,000 free "Little Smart" handsets to primary and middle school students in the city yesterday.
The phones have only five pre-set numbers instead of a normal keypad, with GPS built in. Parents can track their child's location by visiting Shanghai Telecom's Website, making a phone call or sending an SMS.
Future Now Blog
From Shanghai Daily News:
Shanghai Telecom, the city's largest fixed-network operator, has teamed with the Shanghai Education Commission to launch a handset for children to allow parents to check their child's location by global positioning system, Shanghai Daily reported.
The company sent 2,000 free "Little Smart" handsets to primary and middle school students in the city yesterday.
The phones have only five pre-set numbers instead of a normal keypad, with GPS built in. Parents can track their child's location by visiting Shanghai Telecom's Website, making a phone call or sending an SMS.
CIngular and Apple - Leggo My Eggo
What happens when two innovative companies release news of an excellent revolution? Well, good on Cingular for landing the iPhone exclusive until 2009. Good on Apple for stepping up to the plate and not releasing the iPhone before it was ready. Below is an article from Apple Insider. It's a little disappointing, however, that they plan to work together to stop "bad guys" (their words, not mine) from unlocking the iPhone for use with other carriers. I wonder if it will also be released in a different version in Europe, usually far ahead of the US in cell phones. I also wonder, if it can't be unlocked, then what happens when you want to travel to other GSM countries? It seems silly to lock a phone for use only with Cingular, incurring high international roaming rates, when this phone will appeal to many traveling execs. Just my humble opin.
A little hacker once told me, if someone wants in, they will get in. Years ago, Apple released a hacker challenge of a cool million to any hacker who could get into a certain Apple machine. No one won, touting Apple's high security ever since. Do I smell another challenge in the air?
Apple, Cingular claim victory over each other, say more iPhones in queue
By Aidan Malley
Published: 07:50 PM EST
Apple, Inc. and iPhone partner Cingular last week engaged in a brief war of words over which company forced the other to change its business model, but nevertheless have both promised to collaborate on many more Apple-branded cellphones in the future.
While creating an impression of harmony on the surface, Apple and Cingular executives fueled a minor spat following the launch of iPhone last Tuesday, hinting that at a power struggle ensued before the two came to terms on the project.
Igniting the controversy was Apple chief executive Steve Jobs, who told TIME editor Lev Grossman that he had earned "special treatment" from Cingular, forcing a change in the cellular service provider's voicemail system to allow for iPhone's random-access voice message interface. In the same interview, Apple's iPod division headman Tony Fadell added that Cingular "broke all [its] typical process rules" to implement Apple's requests.
Jobs also claimed to have ducked around the arrogance prevalent amongst carriers, which regularly include proprietary applications or force feature changes upon users in order to protect their services. "There's some hubris, where they think they know better," Jobs said. "They dictate what's on the phone. That just wouldn't work for us."
The comments from Jobs triggered a surprisingly sharp rebuttal from Cingular national distribution president Glenn Lurie, who flatly denied that any concessions were made and implied that Jobs' assertions were little more than posturing. "I'm not sure we gave anything," Lurie stated. "I think they bent a lot."
Lurie similarly drew attention to the necessarily exclusive multi-year contract Apple signed with the American cell service that gives iPhone customers the "luxury" of requiring a Cingular subscription. Apple, he added, also agreed to help stop the "bad guys" who would unofficially unlock the iPhone or its SIM card for use on competing networks.
In spite of the apparent rift between the two companies, the Cingular exec was quick to make amends and hinted that the depth of the Apple-Cingular partnership would become clear soon. Several new Apple-branded phones may be "coming out very quickly," he said.
That allusion may help address complaints that iPhone's current limitation to EDGE mobile broadband would curb its appeal in the face of much faster HSDPA (or 3G) access, which Cingular already offers in a few key cities and through rival smartphones such as Samsung's BlackJack.
Jobs himself was already pointing towards future models in his keynote speech at Macworld San Francisco. He mentioned in passing that the company's choice of GSM network support via EDGE would allow it to produce a 3G wireless phone and "many other amazing things" in the near future.
A little hacker once told me, if someone wants in, they will get in. Years ago, Apple released a hacker challenge of a cool million to any hacker who could get into a certain Apple machine. No one won, touting Apple's high security ever since. Do I smell another challenge in the air?
Apple, Cingular claim victory over each other, say more iPhones in queue
By Aidan Malley
Published: 07:50 PM EST
Apple, Inc. and iPhone partner Cingular last week engaged in a brief war of words over which company forced the other to change its business model, but nevertheless have both promised to collaborate on many more Apple-branded cellphones in the future.
While creating an impression of harmony on the surface, Apple and Cingular executives fueled a minor spat following the launch of iPhone last Tuesday, hinting that at a power struggle ensued before the two came to terms on the project.
Igniting the controversy was Apple chief executive Steve Jobs, who told TIME editor Lev Grossman that he had earned "special treatment" from Cingular, forcing a change in the cellular service provider's voicemail system to allow for iPhone's random-access voice message interface. In the same interview, Apple's iPod division headman Tony Fadell added that Cingular "broke all [its] typical process rules" to implement Apple's requests.
Jobs also claimed to have ducked around the arrogance prevalent amongst carriers, which regularly include proprietary applications or force feature changes upon users in order to protect their services. "There's some hubris, where they think they know better," Jobs said. "They dictate what's on the phone. That just wouldn't work for us."
The comments from Jobs triggered a surprisingly sharp rebuttal from Cingular national distribution president Glenn Lurie, who flatly denied that any concessions were made and implied that Jobs' assertions were little more than posturing. "I'm not sure we gave anything," Lurie stated. "I think they bent a lot."
Lurie similarly drew attention to the necessarily exclusive multi-year contract Apple signed with the American cell service that gives iPhone customers the "luxury" of requiring a Cingular subscription. Apple, he added, also agreed to help stop the "bad guys" who would unofficially unlock the iPhone or its SIM card for use on competing networks.
In spite of the apparent rift between the two companies, the Cingular exec was quick to make amends and hinted that the depth of the Apple-Cingular partnership would become clear soon. Several new Apple-branded phones may be "coming out very quickly," he said.
That allusion may help address complaints that iPhone's current limitation to EDGE mobile broadband would curb its appeal in the face of much faster HSDPA (or 3G) access, which Cingular already offers in a few key cities and through rival smartphones such as Samsung's BlackJack.
Jobs himself was already pointing towards future models in his keynote speech at Macworld San Francisco. He mentioned in passing that the company's choice of GSM network support via EDGE would allow it to produce a 3G wireless phone and "many other amazing things" in the near future.
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
Cingular Exclusive Carrier for Apple's iPhone!
You have got to check out the keynote iPhone demo. It takes you step by step through this truly revolutionary phone!
Macworld Expo, San Francisco, January 9, 2007
Apple and Cingular announced that Cingular will be Apple's exclusive U.S. carrier partner for Apple's revolutionary iPhone unveiled today. As part of this multi-year partnership, Apple and Cingular are working together to provide innovative new features to mobile phone users, such as iPhone's pioneering and unique Visual Voice Mail, a first on any mobile phone in the world.
“Apple chose Cingular because they are the best and most popular carrier in the U.S.," said Steve Jobs, Apple's CEO. “We are thrilled to be offering our revolutionary new iPhone exclusively with Cingular, and look forward to working together with them to create some wonderful new features for our customers."
"By partnering with Apple, we are continuing our commitment to raising the bar for customers," said Stan Sigman, Cingular's president and CEO. "We think the iPhone is one of the most innovative devices ever created, and we look forward to letting our customers be the first in the world to experience the future of mobile phones."
iPhone's unique Visual Voice Mail was co-developed by Apple and Cingular. Visual Voice Mail makes voicemail as fast and convenient as email by allowing users to go directly to any of their voice messages without listening to any of the prior messages.
iPhone will be available in the U.S. beginning in June 2007 in a 4GB model for $499 and an 8GB model for $599, and will work in combination with Apple's iTunes running on either a PC or Mac.
iPhone will be sold in the U.S. through Apple's retail and online stores (www.apple.com), and through Cingular's retail and online stores (www.cingular.com).
Macworld Expo, San Francisco, January 9, 2007
Apple and Cingular announced that Cingular will be Apple's exclusive U.S. carrier partner for Apple's revolutionary iPhone unveiled today. As part of this multi-year partnership, Apple and Cingular are working together to provide innovative new features to mobile phone users, such as iPhone's pioneering and unique Visual Voice Mail, a first on any mobile phone in the world.
“Apple chose Cingular because they are the best and most popular carrier in the U.S.," said Steve Jobs, Apple's CEO. “We are thrilled to be offering our revolutionary new iPhone exclusively with Cingular, and look forward to working together with them to create some wonderful new features for our customers."
"By partnering with Apple, we are continuing our commitment to raising the bar for customers," said Stan Sigman, Cingular's president and CEO. "We think the iPhone is one of the most innovative devices ever created, and we look forward to letting our customers be the first in the world to experience the future of mobile phones."
iPhone's unique Visual Voice Mail was co-developed by Apple and Cingular. Visual Voice Mail makes voicemail as fast and convenient as email by allowing users to go directly to any of their voice messages without listening to any of the prior messages.
iPhone will be available in the U.S. beginning in June 2007 in a 4GB model for $499 and an 8GB model for $599, and will work in combination with Apple's iTunes running on either a PC or Mac.
iPhone will be sold in the U.S. through Apple's retail and online stores (www.apple.com), and through Cingular's retail and online stores (www.cingular.com).
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
Apple's iPhone Unveiled
What's this I see on Apple's home page? FINALLY, news, officially from Apple, on the iPhone. And do I see a Cingular signal indicator? That would make sense, since talks with TMobile fell through and they both work on GSM.
The iPhone is sure to be spendy, but worth it. I am a Mac Geek at heart, and love the simplicity, the ease of use and the steadfast reliability that Apple offers in all their devices. Since this has gone back to the drawing board several times, there is no doubt that the iPhone will be held to a higher standard as well.
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Google Beat to the Punch by AT and T/Cingular?
Eric Schmidt of Google has been advocating a day when advertisement would make cell phone subscriptions free. It's natural with the popularity of Google's AdSense program, that the company should take over the lead. Endgadget: Google Chief Sez:"Your Mobile Phone Should be Free.
Every day on the Internet, we are bombarded by advertisement. Does that mean our Internet is free? Even NetZero, who used to be free, funding dial up on the backs of advertisers, charge for the privilege now.
Has AT and T beaten Google to the punch? Or is there another partnership in the works?
NEW YORK ( Reuters) - AT and T Inc. (T.N) plans to push new wireless services and make advertising a key revenue stream following its $86 billion acquisition of BellSouth Corp. (BLS.N), The Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday.
The acquisition, which closed last week, gives AT and T control of mobile phone service provider Cingular Wireless. The companies previously ran Cingular in a joint venture.
``The biggest asset we bought here was Cingular,'' AT and T Chairman and Chief Executive Edward Whitacre said, according to the Journal. ``We're about to become a company with wireless at its heart.''
AT and T will begin selling wireless service under its own brand name to its pool of corporate phone and Internet customers, the Journal reported. Control of Cingular will allow it to offer discounts for bundles that were impossible when the wireless carrier was a separate entity, the paper reported.
Consumers will get the choice of signing up for a new package of mobile phone and Internet service rather than the traditional bundle of land-line phone and Internet service, the paper also reported.
AT&T has been testing cellphones that can run on Wi-Fi networks when at home, which could let consumers save money on their mobile phone bills and perhaps get better reception indoors, the paper said.
It also reported that AT and T will begin selling advertising on mobile phones, television and Internet access service this year.
Advertisers will be able to buy spots for TV and broadband beginning early this year, with wireless ads following later this year, the Journal said. The advertising business could generate several billion dollars in revenue per year in the next five years, the paper cited the company as saying.
Every day on the Internet, we are bombarded by advertisement. Does that mean our Internet is free? Even NetZero, who used to be free, funding dial up on the backs of advertisers, charge for the privilege now.
Has AT and T beaten Google to the punch? Or is there another partnership in the works?
NEW YORK ( Reuters) - AT and T Inc. (T.N) plans to push new wireless services and make advertising a key revenue stream following its $86 billion acquisition of BellSouth Corp. (BLS.N), The Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday.
The acquisition, which closed last week, gives AT and T control of mobile phone service provider Cingular Wireless. The companies previously ran Cingular in a joint venture.
``The biggest asset we bought here was Cingular,'' AT and T Chairman and Chief Executive Edward Whitacre said, according to the Journal. ``We're about to become a company with wireless at its heart.''
AT and T will begin selling wireless service under its own brand name to its pool of corporate phone and Internet customers, the Journal reported. Control of Cingular will allow it to offer discounts for bundles that were impossible when the wireless carrier was a separate entity, the paper reported.
Consumers will get the choice of signing up for a new package of mobile phone and Internet service rather than the traditional bundle of land-line phone and Internet service, the paper also reported.
AT&T has been testing cellphones that can run on Wi-Fi networks when at home, which could let consumers save money on their mobile phone bills and perhaps get better reception indoors, the paper said.
It also reported that AT and T will begin selling advertising on mobile phones, television and Internet access service this year.
Advertisers will be able to buy spots for TV and broadband beginning early this year, with wireless ads following later this year, the Journal said. The advertising business could generate several billion dollars in revenue per year in the next five years, the paper cited the company as saying.
Sunday, December 31, 2006
NYC Cabs to Flesh Out Cell Phone Drop Zones
From Fox News:
NEW YORK — Ever wanted to stuff that "Can you hear me now?" guy into the trunk of your car and take him on a tour of those maddening spots where your cell phone won't work?
One telecommunications company has a plan to do the mechanical equivalent.
The Stockholm-based firm Ericsson recently got approval from New York's taxi commission to place mobile sensors in the trunks of at least 50 cabs in an attempt to better map dead zones in mobile phone networks.
The small devices, about the size of a computer modem, will automatically feed information about signal strength and clarity to engineers.
Because taxis in New York are on the road all day and all night, and ostensibly travel into every corner of the city, company executives said they are a cheap way of covering vast amounts of territory with limited effort.
Read the Full Story in Fox News: Technology
NEW YORK — Ever wanted to stuff that "Can you hear me now?" guy into the trunk of your car and take him on a tour of those maddening spots where your cell phone won't work?
One telecommunications company has a plan to do the mechanical equivalent.
The Stockholm-based firm Ericsson recently got approval from New York's taxi commission to place mobile sensors in the trunks of at least 50 cabs in an attempt to better map dead zones in mobile phone networks.
The small devices, about the size of a computer modem, will automatically feed information about signal strength and clarity to engineers.
Because taxis in New York are on the road all day and all night, and ostensibly travel into every corner of the city, company executives said they are a cheap way of covering vast amounts of territory with limited effort.
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Interstate Connections in Forbes Magazine
Interstate Connections grows to 100 stores! Here is the Press Release as posted by Forbes Magazine:
Nationwide Wireless Retailer Now Has More Stores to Serve Professional Drivers AUSTIN, Texas, Dec. 20 /PRNewswire/ -- Interstate Connections, Ltd., the leading retail provider of wireless solutions to the trucking industry, announced today the opening of its 100th location since launching August 1, 2001. Interstate Connections is commemorating the occasion with special promotions for its customers and employees throughout the month.
"We're proud to be 100 stores strong across 30 states," said Brandon Frye, CEO. "We now have Interstate Connections stores coast to coast and in the four corners of the U.S. to serve our customers -- from Portland, to LA, to Tampa, to New York, and all in between."
In 2006 IC has opened new stores in the areas of Atlanta, Georgia; Baltimore, Maryland; Denton, Texas; Ft. Wayne, Indiana; Hubbard, Ohio; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and Prescott, Arkansas.
"We are proud to be teamed up with Petro Stopping Centers(R) and TravelCenters of America(R) and look forward to continued growth of store locations in both networks," said Frye. "We owe our success to our customers, the thousands of professional drivers who come to us for their communication needs, and we are dedicated to evolving our business to continue to improve their lives on the road."
About Interstate Connections
Interstate Connections is the leading retailer of wireless solutions to the interstate trucking industry. Interstate Connections operates store- within-a-store retail outlets in 100 interstate travel centers nationwide. A preferred dealer for such leading product and service vendors as Sprint, Cingular, RoadCom Wireless, Sirius Satellite Radio, XM Satellite Radio, NetSpend All-Access Prepaid Visa(R) and PreCash, Interstate Connections improves the productivity and quality of life for professional truckers by providing communication and financial solutions configured to their distinct needs. Based in Austin, Texas, Interstate Connections is privately held and has about 300 employees. For more information, visit http://www.interstate-connections.com .
Nationwide Wireless Retailer Now Has More Stores to Serve Professional Drivers AUSTIN, Texas, Dec. 20 /PRNewswire/ -- Interstate Connections, Ltd., the leading retail provider of wireless solutions to the trucking industry, announced today the opening of its 100th location since launching August 1, 2001. Interstate Connections is commemorating the occasion with special promotions for its customers and employees throughout the month.
"We're proud to be 100 stores strong across 30 states," said Brandon Frye, CEO. "We now have Interstate Connections stores coast to coast and in the four corners of the U.S. to serve our customers -- from Portland, to LA, to Tampa, to New York, and all in between."
In 2006 IC has opened new stores in the areas of Atlanta, Georgia; Baltimore, Maryland; Denton, Texas; Ft. Wayne, Indiana; Hubbard, Ohio; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and Prescott, Arkansas.
"We are proud to be teamed up with Petro Stopping Centers(R) and TravelCenters of America(R) and look forward to continued growth of store locations in both networks," said Frye. "We owe our success to our customers, the thousands of professional drivers who come to us for their communication needs, and we are dedicated to evolving our business to continue to improve their lives on the road."
About Interstate Connections
Interstate Connections is the leading retailer of wireless solutions to the interstate trucking industry. Interstate Connections operates store- within-a-store retail outlets in 100 interstate travel centers nationwide. A preferred dealer for such leading product and service vendors as Sprint, Cingular, RoadCom Wireless, Sirius Satellite Radio, XM Satellite Radio, NetSpend All-Access Prepaid Visa(R) and PreCash, Interstate Connections improves the productivity and quality of life for professional truckers by providing communication and financial solutions configured to their distinct needs. Based in Austin, Texas, Interstate Connections is privately held and has about 300 employees. For more information, visit http://www.interstate-connections.com .
Sprint to Boot Fair & Flexible Plans
This just in from Phonenews.com and submitted by Mike Kendall:
Sprint Pulls the Plug on Fair & Flexible
Written by Christopher Price
Thursday, 28 December 2006
In internal documents, sent from sources, Sprint appears to be ready to discontinue their highly-promoted Fair & Flexible plans. The "no huge overage" plans will be discontinued in the middle of next month. Read more for a complete list of changes to Sprint's plan lineup.
Also, Nextel data and messaging goes cheap. In Come the Power Packs
Sprint will replace Fair & Flexible next month with Sprint Power Packs. Power Packs, on both Individual and Family plans, are aimed at matching Cingular and Verizon's current offerings. Currently Fair & Flexible offers significant advantage in overages. However, next month, Sprint's only comparative advantage will be in Night & Weekend minutes starting at 7 PM instead of 9 PM. Sprint will offer 6 PM calling for $5/month additionally.
Sprint cites internally lack of market competition, as well as poor penetration of Fair & Flexible usage. Sprint justifies the move by saying that very few customers actually went over their minutes (less than 20%) in a given month. In addition, most customers were not significantly impacted by the savings from Fair & Flexible price tiers.
The plans do vary in terms of the exact overage rate (lower the higher the recurring monthly charge), and all plans continue to include free roaming and mobile-to-mobile calling.
Below are the plan price-points, as set by Sprint in internal documents. Power Packs will launch on January 13.
Individual
Note: 6 PM calling is $5/month as an add-on on individual plans, down from $10/month on Fair & Flexible.
$39.99: 450 Minutes, $.45/minute Overage
$59.99: 900 Minutes, $.40/minute Overage
$79.99: 1350 Minutes, $.35/minute Overage
$99.99: 2000 Minutes, $.25/minute Overage
$149.99: 4000 Minutes, $.25/minute Overage
Family Plans
Note: Prices include second line. Also, 6 PM Night & Weekend calling is reduced to $10/month on all plans above $59.99.
$59.99: 550 Minutes, $.45/minute Overage
$69.99: 700 Minutes, $.45/minute Overage
$89.99: 1400 Minutes, $.40/minute Overage
$109.99: 2100 Minutes, $.35/minute Overage
$149.99: 3000 Minutes, $.25/minute Overage
Grandfathering
Current customers on Fair & Flexible plans will keep their current plan and price tiers. Also, customers on Fair & Flexible shared line plans will continue to be allowed to add additional lines.
As a logistical option, Fair & Flexible plans will remain in the system for a little over two months post-1/13, however, Sprint will be training representatives to not offer these plans to customers. That means that if you want to get a Fair & Flexible plan, you have until January 13 to do so.
Other Changes
The industry has moved to get rid of the $29.99/month price point. From the industry's perspective, customers interested in $29.99 plans would be better served with prepaid or no-contract postpaid options. Cingular has moved the $29.99 price-point to GoPhone Pick Your Plan, and Verizon has followed suit with their EasyPay option.
Sprint however, lacks a prepaid unit as a part of their direct offering (Virgin Mobile remains their only CDMA prepaid provider that they own). Because of this, Sprint will offer the Sprint Basic 200 plan to both iDEN and CDMA customers. The Basic 200 plan will not be on rate plans and will not be promoted, however any customer can chose the plan.
The Sprint Basic 200 plan is bare-bones. Night & Weekend calling starts at 9 PM, and the overage rate will now be $.45/minute. 6 PM and add-on minute bundles are not compatible with this plan. If you want a Sprint plan at a $29.99 price-point, it is best to do so now.
Alternatively, the Sprint SERO promotion is expected to continue, with savings@sprint.comThis e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it as a login allowing all (informed) potential customers to have a much better plan.
For other changes, Free incoming Plans on CDMA will trade Ready Link PTT for Mobile to Mobile as a built-in offering, and Hybrid Network phones will have data services cut to $10/month. This is also going to be mirrored on iDEN plans, with the new PowerSource Data Pack.
The PowerSource Data Pack for Nextel will offer unlimited data, web access, and will also bundle 1000 SMS messages for $10/month. In addition, unlimited SMS will be offered as an add-on for $5/month. These data changes do not affect Vision or CDMA plans, they will remain unchanged.
Sprint Pulls the Plug on Fair & Flexible
Written by Christopher Price
Thursday, 28 December 2006
In internal documents, sent from sources, Sprint appears to be ready to discontinue their highly-promoted Fair & Flexible plans. The "no huge overage" plans will be discontinued in the middle of next month. Read more for a complete list of changes to Sprint's plan lineup.
Also, Nextel data and messaging goes cheap. In Come the Power Packs
Sprint will replace Fair & Flexible next month with Sprint Power Packs. Power Packs, on both Individual and Family plans, are aimed at matching Cingular and Verizon's current offerings. Currently Fair & Flexible offers significant advantage in overages. However, next month, Sprint's only comparative advantage will be in Night & Weekend minutes starting at 7 PM instead of 9 PM. Sprint will offer 6 PM calling for $5/month additionally.
Sprint cites internally lack of market competition, as well as poor penetration of Fair & Flexible usage. Sprint justifies the move by saying that very few customers actually went over their minutes (less than 20%) in a given month. In addition, most customers were not significantly impacted by the savings from Fair & Flexible price tiers.
The plans do vary in terms of the exact overage rate (lower the higher the recurring monthly charge), and all plans continue to include free roaming and mobile-to-mobile calling.
Below are the plan price-points, as set by Sprint in internal documents. Power Packs will launch on January 13.
Individual
Note: 6 PM calling is $5/month as an add-on on individual plans, down from $10/month on Fair & Flexible.
$39.99: 450 Minutes, $.45/minute Overage
$59.99: 900 Minutes, $.40/minute Overage
$79.99: 1350 Minutes, $.35/minute Overage
$99.99: 2000 Minutes, $.25/minute Overage
$149.99: 4000 Minutes, $.25/minute Overage
Family Plans
Note: Prices include second line. Also, 6 PM Night & Weekend calling is reduced to $10/month on all plans above $59.99.
$59.99: 550 Minutes, $.45/minute Overage
$69.99: 700 Minutes, $.45/minute Overage
$89.99: 1400 Minutes, $.40/minute Overage
$109.99: 2100 Minutes, $.35/minute Overage
$149.99: 3000 Minutes, $.25/minute Overage
Grandfathering
Current customers on Fair & Flexible plans will keep their current plan and price tiers. Also, customers on Fair & Flexible shared line plans will continue to be allowed to add additional lines.
As a logistical option, Fair & Flexible plans will remain in the system for a little over two months post-1/13, however, Sprint will be training representatives to not offer these plans to customers. That means that if you want to get a Fair & Flexible plan, you have until January 13 to do so.
Other Changes
The industry has moved to get rid of the $29.99/month price point. From the industry's perspective, customers interested in $29.99 plans would be better served with prepaid or no-contract postpaid options. Cingular has moved the $29.99 price-point to GoPhone Pick Your Plan, and Verizon has followed suit with their EasyPay option.
Sprint however, lacks a prepaid unit as a part of their direct offering (Virgin Mobile remains their only CDMA prepaid provider that they own). Because of this, Sprint will offer the Sprint Basic 200 plan to both iDEN and CDMA customers. The Basic 200 plan will not be on rate plans and will not be promoted, however any customer can chose the plan.
The Sprint Basic 200 plan is bare-bones. Night & Weekend calling starts at 9 PM, and the overage rate will now be $.45/minute. 6 PM and add-on minute bundles are not compatible with this plan. If you want a Sprint plan at a $29.99 price-point, it is best to do so now.
Alternatively, the Sprint SERO promotion is expected to continue, with savings@sprint.comThis e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it as a login allowing all (informed) potential customers to have a much better plan.
For other changes, Free incoming Plans on CDMA will trade Ready Link PTT for Mobile to Mobile as a built-in offering, and Hybrid Network phones will have data services cut to $10/month. This is also going to be mirrored on iDEN plans, with the new PowerSource Data Pack.
The PowerSource Data Pack for Nextel will offer unlimited data, web access, and will also bundle 1000 SMS messages for $10/month. In addition, unlimited SMS will be offered as an add-on for $5/month. These data changes do not affect Vision or CDMA plans, they will remain unchanged.
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Customer Support Numbers for Tech Companies
TechLore put together a pretty impressive list with web and phone numbers for Customer Service Support numbers of top electronics companies.
Phone manufacturers and Sling Media are on the list. A lot of computer builders too, just in case you can resolve an issue for a customer and score that AirCard sale.
TechLore List
Phone manufacturers and Sling Media are on the list. A lot of computer builders too, just in case you can resolve an issue for a customer and score that AirCard sale.
Cingular - To Be Out of Contract? Or Not to Be?
Personally, I have Cingular and love the service, but, as we all know, there are times when getting out of a contract can be handy.
From Gizmodo:
Remember when we told you that you can get out of a Cingular contract thanks to their text message rate hike? Turns out Cingular doesn't quite want you to do that. The Consumerist has been documenting how much trouble Cingular's been giving callers who call in to cancel, saying that text messages are a subscribed service and not a part of the contract.
Read the full story.
Sprints EVDO Rev A Broadband Reaches Benchmark of 60 Million
Sprint released to the press today that it has added EVDO Rev A coverage to 10 more markets. This increases their high speed coverage to include 60 million customers. Plus, increasing PowerVision to include 20 markets.
Read the Press Release
This release comes on the heels of Verizon touting coverage to "blanket" the US by the year's end. Actually, if you read the Verizon releases, their coverage is far behind Sprint's. They had added in such states such a MA, ME & RI. Hardly a blanket you could use without your toes hanging out. And by my count, year's end means they only have 5 days to roll out the holes.
EVDO Coverage
This release comes on the heels of Verizon touting coverage to "blanket" the US by the year's end. Actually, if you read the Verizon releases, their coverage is far behind Sprint's. They had added in such states such a MA, ME & RI. Hardly a blanket you could use without your toes hanging out. And by my count, year's end means they only have 5 days to roll out the holes.
Monday, December 25, 2006
U720 USB EVDO with Mac - Two Solutions
Here it is... The post you have been waiting for. How can we capitalize on the U720 for Mac users?
First, the biggest difference between the U720 and other AirCards is that it is faster (clocked at up to 3.1Mbs) and like it's card counter part, the S720, it has GPS built in.
Sprint does not offer OSX connection manager and Novatel does not have OSX drivers yet. Other cards were supported by OSX 10.4 and higher. So where can we go for a little bit of help until Apple adds in the support? To Verizon, of course!
We'll have to get a little help from their OS X VZAccess Manager. You will still have to initially activate it on a Windows machine and make sure the U720 runs the OTA updates.
Another option is that one user of EVDO Info forums has extracted the U720 drivers and packaged them into a handy installer app that can be downloaded via the forums. If you go this route, once you install the drivers, restart the Mac. (Don't forget to first activate the U720 on a Windows machine!) Here is a link to that post.
Once you are sure that the U720 is activated and ready to go, plug it into the USB port. Make sure the status light is shining green. That means it is getting enough power to work. If, by chance, it does not, use the included Y-adapter use two USB ports with modem. This should seal the deal!
First, the biggest difference between the U720 and other AirCards is that it is faster (clocked at up to 3.1Mbs) and like it's card counter part, the S720, it has GPS built in.
Sprint does not offer OSX connection manager and Novatel does not have OSX drivers yet. Other cards were supported by OSX 10.4 and higher. So where can we go for a little bit of help until Apple adds in the support? To Verizon, of course!
We'll have to get a little help from their OS X VZAccess Manager. You will still have to initially activate it on a Windows machine and make sure the U720 runs the OTA updates.
Another option is that one user of EVDO Info forums has extracted the U720 drivers and packaged them into a handy installer app that can be downloaded via the forums. If you go this route, once you install the drivers, restart the Mac. (Don't forget to first activate the U720 on a Windows machine!) Here is a link to that post.
Once you are sure that the U720 is activated and ready to go, plug it into the USB port. Make sure the status light is shining green. That means it is getting enough power to work. If, by chance, it does not, use the included Y-adapter use two USB ports with modem. This should seal the deal!
Drivers with Earwax Problems?
Ever done a bluetooth headset demo only to have to scrape the earwax off the ear bud afterwards? This little gadget could be your saving grace... or your worst nightmare!
An elephant shaped cell phone strap lets truckers and others with ear wax issues scrape it out. Cut and gross at the same time.
Apple and the iPhone - iPod Cell Phone
There has been a lot of hush hush rumors regarding Apple working on a cell phone around it's iPod platform. There have been attempts at guessing design and features, but mums the word from Apple. Rumor mills claim that we will see this phone in January. Doubtful since insiders say the Apple iPhone was slated to go back to the drawing board because the current producer and provider (negotiations with T-Mobile were put on the back burner) could not come up with the interface that Apple's head honcho mandated.
Recently Cisco came out with something they called iPhone, which is not cellular, and has nothing to do with Apple in the least. However, considering all things Apple for the past few years have had i in front of it, the moniker calls to an already established trend by Apple. iWork, iChat, iPod, iBook and the list goes on and on.
Apple Insider is a site that has released accurate Apple info before the company has released the information publicly. No, it's not an Apple marketing ploy, and they actually tried to get the site shut down via the courts.
Apple Insider claims there will be no further delays in the iPhone release.
Recently Cisco came out with something they called iPhone, which is not cellular, and has nothing to do with Apple in the least. However, considering all things Apple for the past few years have had i in front of it, the moniker calls to an already established trend by Apple. iWork, iChat, iPod, iBook and the list goes on and on.
Apple Insider is a site that has released accurate Apple info before the company has released the information publicly. No, it's not an Apple marketing ploy, and they actually tried to get the site shut down via the courts.
Apple Insider claims there will be no further delays in the iPhone release.
Verizon Math
Verizon Math is a blog that one man started a few months ago. It seems that he purchased an EVDO aircard and plan from Verizon in the states and is in Canada quite a bit. He ran into a whole can of worms with how data cost is explained by Verizon. This is something you should all be aware of. I have used this as a sales tool. After all, if you are going to be charged roaming, don't you want to have a clue what you will be charged vs what you are billed?
Apparently one issue is that the rate they charge is confusing, but also that none of the reps in customer service have a solid understanding of how to explain it in an understandable way to customers.
He documents his experiences and Verizon's responses. This has become a wildly popular site simply because so many other people have the same experiences. This guy doesn't rant or get emotional. He puts his posts in a cut and dry way, which is much better in order to get things resolved.
His first post gives the background of the issue:
Here's the background:
I have a Verizon unlimited data plan in the U.S. and recently crossed the border to Canada. Prior to crossing the border I called customer service to find out what rates I'd be paying for voice and data. The data rate I was quoted was ".002 cents per kilobyte."
I was surprised at the rate so I confirmed it with the representative I spoke to, and she confirmed it "point zero zero two cents per kilobyte." I asked her to note that in my account.
I received my bill and was charged $.002/KB - which is dollars - "point zero zero 2 dollars per kilobyte". As it is translated to cents would be .2 cents or 2 tenths of a cent - which is a 100 times greater rate than I was quoted.
My bill for my data usage in Canada was therefore much greater than I had expected - using the quote I was provided before my usage.
I have tried to resolve this issue with customer service reps on the phone, but noone seems to see the difference between ".002 cents" and ".002 dollars".
Apparently one issue is that the rate they charge is confusing, but also that none of the reps in customer service have a solid understanding of how to explain it in an understandable way to customers.
He documents his experiences and Verizon's responses. This has become a wildly popular site simply because so many other people have the same experiences. This guy doesn't rant or get emotional. He puts his posts in a cut and dry way, which is much better in order to get things resolved.
His first post gives the background of the issue:
Here's the background:
I have a Verizon unlimited data plan in the U.S. and recently crossed the border to Canada. Prior to crossing the border I called customer service to find out what rates I'd be paying for voice and data. The data rate I was quoted was ".002 cents per kilobyte."
I was surprised at the rate so I confirmed it with the representative I spoke to, and she confirmed it "point zero zero two cents per kilobyte." I asked her to note that in my account.
I received my bill and was charged $.002/KB - which is dollars - "point zero zero 2 dollars per kilobyte". As it is translated to cents would be .2 cents or 2 tenths of a cent - which is a 100 times greater rate than I was quoted.
My bill for my data usage in Canada was therefore much greater than I had expected - using the quote I was provided before my usage.
I have tried to resolve this issue with customer service reps on the phone, but noone seems to see the difference between ".002 cents" and ".002 dollars".
Wave Bubble Jammer
Here is a little ditty that just might have it's uses. It is a jammer for cell phones, rf, bluetooth and wifi with a radius of 20'. Fits into a pack of cigs like clockwork. My question is, can I use it NOT to get speeding tickets too?
Sunday, December 24, 2006
Contribute to this Blog
I can now add feeds to the sidebar very easily. I have added Phone Scoop and Digg Technology sites. If you have a site you want to run headlines in the side bar, let me know by emailing me.
Also, if you have any additions you would like to make to this blog as you discover work arounds or info, let me know and we can post it up for everyone. This is the easiest way to share info with each other.
There is also a work around for the USB EVDO modems for Mac, and I will post that up here shortly.
Also, if you have any additions you would like to make to this blog as you discover work arounds or info, let me know and we can post it up for everyone. This is the easiest way to share info with each other.
There is also a work around for the USB EVDO modems for Mac, and I will post that up here shortly.
Sierra 595 with Macintosh
Thanks to Juan for finding this info. The best info on this type of harder install is always what we discover when trying:
You must, as always, activate the Sierra card first on a Windows based computer. You need a PowerBook G4 (or G3 with PCMCIA slot), OSX version 10.4 or higher. You can check the version by click on the apple in the very top left corner and choosing "About this Mac". If it is a lower version, plug the computer into an ethernet connection or use wifi to downloaded the latest version. On the same pop up where your version whos, you can choosed "Updates". It might take a while depending on what version the Mac is running, so be prepared to do something else if needed. You can also update the software by click on the harddrive icon on the desktop. Go to Applications>System Preferences. Open that and choose Software Update>Check Now.
Download to the Mac, "Watcher Lite for Sierra Wireless". This software works for 975, 860, 850, 775, 595, 580 and MP series AirCards.
Watcher Lite should start automatically. Plunk in the AirCard and begin install on the Mac. If you can install with the regular Sprint connection manager, this one will be cake.
Interestingly enough, the instructions also tell you not to put any stickers onto the Aircard, so control yourself and no smileys :)
You must, as always, activate the Sierra card first on a Windows based computer. You need a PowerBook G4 (or G3 with PCMCIA slot), OSX version 10.4 or higher. You can check the version by click on the apple in the very top left corner and choosing "About this Mac". If it is a lower version, plug the computer into an ethernet connection or use wifi to downloaded the latest version. On the same pop up where your version whos, you can choosed "Updates". It might take a while depending on what version the Mac is running, so be prepared to do something else if needed. You can also update the software by click on the harddrive icon on the desktop. Go to Applications>System Preferences. Open that and choose Software Update>Check Now.
Download to the Mac, "Watcher Lite for Sierra Wireless". This software works for 975, 860, 850, 775, 595, 580 and MP series AirCards.
Watcher Lite should start automatically. Plunk in the AirCard and begin install on the Mac. If you can install with the regular Sprint connection manager, this one will be cake.
Interestingly enough, the instructions also tell you not to put any stickers onto the Aircard, so control yourself and no smileys :)
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Higher and higher
It seems that over the past few months, the cost of the usb to pcmcia adapters have skyrocketed. The average price increase is around $50. This makes them around the same cost as the Kyocera and Linksys EVDO wireless routers. Why pay for one when you can load a few computers with high speed? Not sure if this is a supply/demand issue, or only that it is such a niche need, they can charge what they want for the high speed card junkies.
Just ordered the Elan U132 adapter from this site http://store.mp3car.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=COM-038. It was the least expensive and the fastest as far as shipping out. I even checked ebay and found that they are $11 plus extortionate shipping higher there. This one cost $189, s&h just under $8.
Just ordered the Elan U132 adapter from this site http://store.mp3car.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=COM-038. It was the least expensive and the fastest as far as shipping out. I even checked ebay and found that they are $11 plus extortionate shipping higher there. This one cost $189, s&h just under $8.
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