The Best Verizon Wireless Mobile Phones for 2010

The official announcement of the Motorola DROID 2 for Verizon Wireless has inspired me to publish a list of the carrier's top mobile phones. Verizon has really worked hard to combat the iPhone 4 this year and its line-up has been great so far.

Here's my list of the top Verizon Wireless cell phones for 2010:

• Motorola DROID 2
• HTC DROID Incredible
• Motorola DROID X
• BlackBerry Bold 9650
  
• Palm Pre Plus
• LG Ally
• LG Fathom

The best Verizon Wireless mobile phones list is dominated by smartphones. That's mainly because smartphones have begun to bridge the gap between business-centric devices and feature phones. They now offer entertainment features alongside its business centric functionalities.

That's it for this ist of the top Verizon Wireless cell phones for 2010. Tune in to this blog for more lists.

FCC to Investigate US wireless Network Operators

I previously blogged about the possible government review on wireless network operators on possible anti-competitive practices. Well, it appears that the FCC has already made it's move.

The FCC or Federal Communications Commission has decided to launch a formal inquiry into the wireless industry. The agency will look into the business practices being used in the industry. It will also examine how the large wireless network operators affect consumer choice.

The target of this FCC inquiry will be the major wireless network operators, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile USA and Verizon Wireless.

Exclusive deals between handset makers and carriers will also be targeted by this FCC inquiry into the the wireless network industry. Apparently, rural carriers have expressed their strong opposition to these exclusive deals. They do not have enough clout to make deals to carry the most popular phones so such practices should be illegal.

The FCC also wants to gain an insight into the general state of the wireless industry to see if current conditions in the wireless market allow for new entrants. If the the major wireless network operators have too much power then a new entrant into the industry have little chance of survival.

The results of this FCC inquiry into the the wireless network industry will be used as a framework for other investigations into other commercial industries. Other sectors such as cable and broadband are also scheduled to be examined by the government.

New FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski released this statement regarding the inquiry,

"I hope the new wireless competition report will help set a standard for fact-based, analytically deep analysis of the mobile industry. It is essential that the commission develop policies that encourage a new generation of innovators, working with new tools, on new platforms, and having an extraordinary impact on our economy and society"

Well, this is certainly interesting. The wireless industry has always defended its practices, pointing out that they offer consumers a wide range of choices of network operators, handsets, and service plans. We'll see if the inquiry brings any improvements that would benefit all consumers.

That's it for this post on the FCC inquiry into the mobile phone carriers. Tune in to this blog to get the latest news and updates on wireless networks.

Verizon Wireless Proposes Change to Existing Roaming Rule

Here's an interesting update to users who like to roam outside the confines of their carrier's wireless network. Verizon Wireless has offered a bold proposition to change the existing rules on roaming.

So why would Verizon Wireless propose the existing roaming rule? Well, pressure from the government has encouraged or forced the carrier to propose a change to the current laws regarding roaming.

Roaming is a term coined to describe a practice that involves extending of connectivity service in a location that is different from the home location where the service was registered.

The existing roaming law allows wireless network operators the choice to refuse from providing roaming services to competing companies that own spectrum in a given market but have yet to build out a network there. However, minor and regional wireless network operators claim that the existing roaming rule negatively affects customers, who are unable to roam in those regions and will be left without service.

Verizon Wireless announced that it will support legislation that requires it to provide roaming services in this type of circumstance. However, there's a catch. Big Red will only support legislation that sets a 2 year limit to the requirement.

So how will this play out? The letter containing the proposal to change the existing roaming rule has already been sent to several senators. However, considering how politics work, it may take months before actual changes to the rule are made.

That's it for this news on major wireless network operators. Tune in to this blog to get the latest news

AT&T Wireless Responds Governemnt Review

A few weeks ago, I blogged about the Department of Justice has begun looking into large U.S. telecommunication and wireless networks for possible anti-competitive practices. AT&T Inc. and Verizon Communications Inc. were said to be the main target of the government review.

Apparently, Sen. Herb Kohl's congressional panel is in-charge of reviewing potential anti-competitive behaviors of the country's largest providers of wireless network services. There are concerns over texting prices, roaming disputes, disputes over spectrum and exclusive access to popular phones.

However, AT&T is not going down without a fight. The carrier immediately decided to make a response to this information on the anti-competitive practices review to be conducted by the DOJ.

James Cicconi, an AT&T senior executive vice president, delivered a statement in defense of his company. The AT&T senior executive vice president indicated that charges of anti-competitive practices by US wireless networks are unfounded. He stressed that the prices of U.S. wireless are much lower than in any other major industrialized country.

Cicconi also argued that exclusive handset arrangements are standard practices. Exclusive access allows a carrier and a manufacturer to split the high cost of marketing. The case is similar with early termination fees that help wireless networks to recoup money spent discounting handsets.

Well, this is certainly interesting. I hope that a review will bring about pro-consumer policies. I wonder why Verizon Wireless did not respond to this anti-competitive practices review. AT&T decided to take action quickly and their response make sense.

However, an inquiry into practices will only help consumers in my opinion.

That's it for this post on AT&T's response to the government's anti-competitive practices review. Tune in to this blog for more news and updates on wireless networks.

AT&T and Verizon Wireless Anti-Competitive Practices Review

Trouble might be brewing for both AT&T and Verizon Wireless. According to the Wall Street Journal, the Department of Justice has begun looking into large U.S. telecommunication companies such as AT&T Inc. and Verizon Communications Inc. to see if any abuse of market power is happening.

Now, there is no cause for alarm. This process is still very much in its infancy and an actual investigation may not be even be opened. However, it is interesting to see that the government is looking into the matter. This tough stance by the DOJ appears to be a reflection of the Obama administration's aggressive stance on antitrust enforcement.

The AT&T and Verizon Wireless anti-competitive practice review seems to have originated from suspicions within the DOJ. Apparently, the massive growth achieved by these wireless network operators have led some to question if it might detrimental effects on smaller competitors and consumers.

Large wireless network operators like AT&T and Verizon Wireless have huge power and influence in the market, this means that they are capable of stifling their competition.

The AT&T and Verizon Wireless anti-competitive practice review will also focus on other areas like the exclusive handset deals. Some wireless network operators have exclusive rights to some high-end handsets and it might be prevent smaller carriers from offering a fair challenge. For instance, AT&T has the iPhone and Verizon Wireless has the BlackBerry Storm.

The DOJ is also looking into the limitations on what third-party companies can do using carriers' data networks. Allegedly, some wireless network operators are blocking certain media download and VoIP apps to prevent legitimate competition from rival services.

Well, I think this news is very interesting. An investigation would expose some unfair practices by the carriers. If there are any. I would really want the government to look at exclusive handset deals. Maybe it would lead a Verizon subscriber like me getting a CDMA iPhone.

That's it for this post on the AT&T and Verizon Wireless anti-competitive practice review. Tune in to this blog for more news and updates on wireless networks.

Verizon Wireless and Alltel Pays $30 Million to Florida Subscribers

Verizon Wireless and Alltel ran into some trouble due to misleading and unwanted third-party billing. Florida customers sued these wireless networks for charging them with misleading and unwanted third-party billing for services.

It appears that customers in Florida received bills that included fees for unwanted and unknown services such as music, horoscopes and ringtones. These charges mysteriously appeared with indiscernible names such as "OpenMarket," and "M-Blox."

Verizon Wireless and Alltel agreed to settle the matter with the affected Florida subscribers. Attorney General Bill McCollum announced the major details of this major wireless network complaint settlement on Wednesday.

These troubled wireless networks will reimburse a total of $30 million to the affected consumers.
Verizon Wireless will refund an estimated $24 million and Alltel will shell out $6 million.

Verizon Wireless and Alltel will also pay the state of Florida about $1.5 million to cover the cost of this misleading and unwanted third-party billing investigation. These wireless networks are also in the process of implementing steps to prevent such practices. With over $30 million in damages, I don't blame them.

AT&T also suffered from a similar complaint last year. Big Blue was also forced to reimburse affected customers across the nation.

Affected customers should expect a settlement website with official legal information on how to obtain money from the settle should be established soon.

That's it for this news on the Verizon Wireless and Alltel settlement. Tune in to this blog for more news and updates on wireless networks.

Atlantic Tele-Network Buys Remaining Alltel Verizon Merger Assets

We have covered the monumental Alltel Verizon merger in this blog since the rumor of this union first came out. Last April, we reported that the completion of the Alltel Verizon merger has been delayed due to a lack of buyers for the assets that are required to be divested. In fact Verizon was forced to file a request for an additional 60 days to close the divestitures.

Fortunately, it appears that the Alltel Verizon merger will finally come into completion as a new buyer has been found. Apparently, Atlantic Tele-Network, Inc. has agreed to buy the final 26 Alltel Wireless markets from Verizon Wireless. Atlantic Tele-Network needed to shell out around $200 million to acquire this assets.

In case you haven't heard about the Atlantic Tele-Network, let me give a brief background on this wireless network. This company holds it headquartes in Salem, MA. Atlantic Tele-Network currently provides telecommunications services in the United States, Guyana, Bermuda, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Turks and Caicos. Atlantic Tele-Network runs a subsidiary called Commnet Wireless, which provides wireless voice and data roaming services for U.S. and International carriers.

The remaining Alltel Verizon merger assets cover some 800,000 subscribers in Idaho, Illinois, Ohio, North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia.

However, the purchase of these Alltel Verizon merger assets still needs to undergo review and approval by the Department of Justice and the Federal Communications Commission. Once the regulatory approval the deal will close later this year.

Since buyers for all 105 of the markets it was required by the FCC to divest as a condition of the Alltel Verizon merger are complete, this chapter in wireless network history is finally coming to a close.

Thjat's it for thisa update on the Alltel Verizon merger. Tune in to this blog for more news and info on wireless networks and carriers.

Verizon Wirelesss and Other Carriers Agree to Standardize Marketing Practices

Here's a significant wireless network update. According to Mobile Marketing Association North America, the major wireless carries have all agreed to consolidate and standardize their mobile marketing practices. Verizon Wireless, AT&T, T-mobile and Sprint have committed to the project initiated by Mobile Marketing Association North America.

So what exactly does this mean? What happens if Verizon Wireless and other carriers consolidate and standardize their mobile marketing practices?

Well, if Verizon Wireless and other carriers consolidate and standardize their mobile marketing practices, then there will be improve consumer satisfaction and understanding of mobile marketing campaigns.

Here are the other implications of standardized mobile marketing practices with the guidance of the Mobile Marketing Association North America:

• continued growth of mobile marketing
• a dramatic reduction in the costs of launching mobile marketing campaigns
• faster time to market for campaigns
• improved consumer satisfaction
• improved consistency and mobile marketing campaigns across the four major U.S. carriers

Tp make the long story short the intiiative of the Mobile Marketing Association North America to convince Verizon Wireless and other carriers to consolidate and standardize their mobile marketing practices will be beneficial to both the customers and the telecom companies.

Consumers will receive improved service if Verizon Wireless and other carriers to consolidate and standardize their mobile marketing practices. On the other hand the carriers will be able to reduce the cost of their mobile marketing campaigns.

According to estimates, the decision of Verizon Wireless and other carriers to consolidate and standardize their mobile marketing practices under the guidance of the Mobile Marketing Association North America will save $200 million annually for the whole mobile industry.

Verizon Wireless and other carriers that agree to consolidate and standardize their mobile marketing practices also recieved support from the major aggregators, brands and content owners. VeriSign, Neustar, Limbo, and Thumbplay worked with the Mobile Marketing Association North America to secure this agreement.

That's it for this story on the Mobile Marketing Association North America convincing Verizon Wireless and other carriers to consolidate and standardize their mobile marketing practices. tune in to this blog to get more news and updates on wireless networks or mobile phone carriers.

Verizon Wireless LTE Network Commercial Deployment in 2010

Verizon Wireless revealed late last year that it will accelerate the build out of its LTE wireless network in 2009. The company is hoping for a commercial deployment in 2010. Some experts believe that the LTE technology that was chosen by Verizon Wireless is the future of wireless broadband. Let's look at the Verizon Wireless LTE network story.

The Verizon Wireless LTE network relationship began when the company announced plans to develop and deploy its fourth generation mobile broadband network using Long Term Evolution. The Verizon Wireless LTE network will take the company and its business to the future.

Long Term Evolution is the technology that will bring Verizon Wireless into the future. Verizon Wireless LTE network have already began to conduct tests to see the speeds that can be achieved using this technology. The results are very promising.

Verizon Wireless LTE network tests indicate that download rates have an average of 50-60Mbps. These numbers were taken from Verizon Wireless LTE network trials in the uncluttered airwaves of Minneapolis, Columbus, Ohio, and northern New Jersey. However, the real time speed of this mobile broadband technology is expected to be lower.

However, Long Term Evolution is not the only technology being considered as the future of wireless broadband. WIMAX is also expected to provide similar speeds to LTE. This means that the Verizon Wireless LTE network partnership will have some competition in the future.

Verizon Wireless LTE network is not the sole Long Term Evolution initiative in the market. Vodafone is also running LTE trials in various European cities. Handset makers have also taken picks in the 4G race. In fact the, it has been rumored that Nokia has been working with Verizon Wireless LTE network to create an exclusive Long Term Evolution mobile phone.

What does the future bring for the Verizon Wireless LTE network? Will the Verizon Wireless LTE network really change the face of wireless broadband? Well, we just have to wait and see.

AT&T and Verizon Chosen to Provide Cellular Communications in Emergency

I've written a post about Sprint offering its iDen network to the Obama administration as a network that can provide cellular communications in emergency situations. However, it seems that the Federal Emergency Management Administration or FEMA has tapped other carriers to provide cellular communications in emergency situations.

According to the folks at RCR Wireless News, FEMA has picked AT&T and Verizon as the most suitable carriers that can offer cellular communications in emergency response situations. These networks will be responsible for bringing cellular communications in emergency cases involving the nation.

Let's look at why AT&T was picked by FEMA. According to the cellular communications in emergency plan, AT&T will provide wireless and Wi-Fi services on a daily basis. AT&T's services will power FEMA's day-to-day operations.

Under FEMA's cellular communications in emergency plan, AT&T will provide 16,000 wireless devices that include wireless cards, smartphones and various other handsets. Voice and data communications as well as e-mail solutions for the wireless handsets will be available. AT&T Handsets with push-to-talk capabilities will also be use for providing cellular communications in emergency situations.

On the other hand, Verizon Wireless, role in this cellular communications in emergency scheme is to provide communication in cases of emergencies. The Verizon Wireless handsets and devices that will be used in cellular communications in emergency situations are being stockpiled in a warehouse.

The Federal Emergency Management Administration has also assigned Stratus Technologies to provide satellite assistance in this cellular communications in emergency plan.

According to experts, FEMS relies heavily on wireless networks and satellites for communications in emergency because most networks knocked during disasters. The agency wants communications to be restored as soon as possible during national emergencies.

This ends this update on FEMA's plans for restoring cellular communications in emergency. Tune in to this blog for more wireless network news and updates.

US Wireless Network Operators May Recieve Tax Credits

It seems that wireless network operators will get some help during the current economic crisis. According to a Reuters article, a Tax Credits proposal for US wireless networks is being discussed in Congress. Let's go into the details of this story on Tax Credits proposal for US wireless networks.

Apparently, the US government is discussing plans to bolster the U.S. economy. The Tax Credits proposal for US wireless networks is part of these economic recovery solutions. Lawmakers are trying to decide if providing tax breaks to telecommunication companies that provide broadband through the Tax Credits proposal for US wireless networks will help to revitalize the flagging economy.

The original form of the Tax Credits proposal for US wireless networks was limited only to wired broadband providers. However, the present form of the Tax Credits proposal for US wireless networks now includes mobile service carriers such as AT&T Mobility, Sprint, Verizon Wireless and T-Mobile USA.

The Tax Credits proposal for US wireless networks aims to provide a 10% tax credit to companies that high-speed Internet. Wireless network providers that build high-speed web access in rural and under-served areas are also included in the Tax Credits proposal for US wireless networks.

However, the Tax Credits proposal for US wireless networks also suggests that an additional 10% tax break to companies that build faster Internet services. It seems that the Tax Credits proposal for US wireless networks could really provide significant aid to US carriers. I think that the 20% potential tax break offered by the Tax Credits proposal for US wireless networks represent a lot of money because these companies are worth billions of dollars.

Sen. John Rockefeller, a senior Democrat on the Senate Finance Committee and Republican Sen. Olympia Snowe are spearheading the Tax Credits proposal for US wireless networks. Since debates and discussions on the Tax Credits proposal for US wireless networks are still going on, the exact details of this stimulus package have not been finalized.

Of course, the Tax Credits proposal for US wireless networks have its share of supporters and opponents. Some lawmakers feel that the is simply a give away and would only be used to fund projects that would have been built anyway. Some also say that the tax break plan will help to spur investment not already planned.

I think that it will be exciting to observe the progress of Tax Credits proposal for US wireless networks. If the approval of the Tax Credits proposal for US wireless networks will help to build faster broadband around the country then I'm for it. Keep on visiting this blog to know more about news and updates on major wireless network operators.

Verizon Wireless: the Nation's Largest Wireless Network

Here's a wireless network update. Verizon Wireless proudly announced that it has taken the title of the largest US wireless network by completing its merge with Alltel. I have blogged about this topic a few times and it seems that the Verizon Wireless-Alltel merger is about to be completed.

Prior to the completion of the Verizon Wireless-Alltel merger, AT&T held the title as the largest US wireless network. Verizon wireless was considered as the second largest US wireless network until it completed its union with Alltel. Now, Verizon Wireless can proudly claim that it now owns the top spot as the largest US wireless network.

The completion of the Verizon Wireless-Alltel merger means that Verizon has become the largest wireless network with a coverage of 290 million people and serves more than 83.7 million total customers. On the other hand, AT&T with 74.9 million wireless customers, becomes the second largest US wireless network.

The wireless network scene first heard about the Verizon Wireless-Alltel merger for $5.9 billion in equity on June, 2008. In order to complete the Verizon Wireless-Alltel merger, the current largest US wireless network took over about $22.2 billion in Alltel's debt. These requirements were ordered by both the US Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

This means that Alltel customers in areas served by both Alltel and Verizon will not be included in the Verizon Wireless-Alltel merger. The Alltel customers affected by the Verizon Wireless-Alltel merger will be informed that their service will change.

Some experts feel that it will take some time before the Verizon Wireless-Alltel merge will become fully integrated although both companies use CDMA cellular technology in their wireless networks. It make take time to merge the network operations and billing systems of the largest US wireless network.

Now, how will AT&T respond to the Verizon Wireless-Alltel merger. I think that they will find ways to regain their former position as the the largest US network. Competition among US carriers is intense so there is no doubt that the rivals of the current largest US network will try to take over the divested customers.

That's is for this post on the Verizon Wireless-Alltel merger forming the largest US wireless network. Tune in to this blog for more news and updates on major US wireless carriers.

Samsung Omnia Arrives at Verizon Wireless

Another high profile device joins the impressive Verizon Wireless mobile phone lineup. Verizon Wireless network has just announced the arrival of the Samsung Omina touchscreen to its high-end line up. Let's take a closer look at the Verizon Wireless Samsung Omnia touchscreen phone.

Verizon subscribers can get heir mitts on the Verizon Wireless Samsung Omnia touchscreen handset for $250 after rebate with a new two year contract. The Verizon Wireless Samsung Omnia touchscreen will hit retail stores on December 8. Customers can also get this touchscreen phone on Verizon Wireless sales channels starting November 26.

The Verizon Wireless Samsung Omnia touchsreen phone is a Dual-band CDMA variant made for Verizon's wireless network. This high-end device features an advanced touch screen with TouchWiz user interface. The Verizon Wireless Samsung Omnia has 3.2-inch display that is suitable for mulitmedia functions and touch navigation.

One of the highlight features offered by the Verizon Wireless Samsung Omnia touchscreen phone is the powerful 5 megapixel camera. This is no puny camera because it offers a wide array of features including auto-focus, geo-tagging, auto-panorama, stabilizer, face detection, smile detection, and video editing. Cameraphone fans will be awed by the Verizon Wireless Samsung Omnia touchscreen.

The newly released Verizon Wireless Samsung Omnia touchscreen phone also offers a variety of entertainment and multimedia features. The Verizon Wireless Samsung Omnia touchscreen handset also offers a music player and FM radio for music fans and offers support for Divx and Xvid movie files which caters to movie fans.

Business users will also like the Windows Mobile 6.1 Professional OS on the Verizon Wireless Samsung Omnia touchscreen phone. This device offers great business tools like access to multiple e-mail accounts with Microsoft Direct Push. The Verizon Wireless Samsung Omnia touchscreen phone also provides OTA synchronization of contacts, calendars and task lists with Microsoft Exchange Server.

Other notable features offered by the Verizon Wireless Samsung Omnia touchscreen handset include GPS, stereo Bluetooth, WiFi, and 8 GB of internal memory plus a memory card slot. In short, the Verizon Wireless Samsung Omnia touchscreen handset is loaded with premium features.

That concludes this wireless network post for the Verizon Wireless Samsung Omnia touchscreen phone. Keep on tuning in to this blog for more on new phones like the Verizon Wireless Samsung Omnia from US wireless networks.

BlackBerry Storm Now Available at Verizon Wireless

The Storm has finally landed. Verizon Wireless subscribers can now order the BlackBerry Storm for $199.99 after a $50 mail-in rebate and a new contract. The Verizon BlackBerry Storm is also offered at full retail price of $519.99. Let's become more familiar with the Verizon BlackBerry Storm touchscreen.

The Verizon BlackBerry Storm is drawing some attention because it's one of the top iPhone alternatives. This GSM device offers a 'clickable' 3.25-inch touch-screen technology that rivals other touch sensitive devices. The Verizon BlackBerry Storm is the first BlackBerry device to carry a touchscreen display.

The touchscreen offered by Verizon BlackBerry Storm offers an ambient light sensor that automatically adjusts backlighting for ideal screen viewing. The Verizon BlackBerry Storm touchscreen also offers an accelerometer that automatically rotates the screen in either portrait or landscape mode when the user rotates the RIM BlackBerry device.

This new Verizon Wireless network device also sports an attractive design that would appeal to many users. The Verizon BlackBerry Storm has contoured corners, stainless steel back and chrome accents that combine for an elegant and sleek look.

As expected form a RIM BlackBerry device, the Verizon BlackBerry Storm is packed with advanced features. Users can find high speed EVDO data and GPS with Google Maps in the Verizon BlackBerry Storm. However, the lack of Wi-Fi on the Verizon BlackBerry Storm has disappointed many users.

The Verizon BlackBerry Storm also carries a integrated 3.2-megapixel camera with variable zoom, auto focus and flash. User can use the flash for provides continuous lighting when recording video using the Verizon BlackBerry Storm.

Verizon's iPhone alternative is also great for entertainment. The Verizon BlackBerry Storm offers a Media/MP3 player that plays movies in full screen mode. This multimedia feature also displays pictures and slideshow. Users can also use the s quickly Media/MP3 player on the Verizon BlackBerry Storm to manage their entire music collection.

The Verizon BlackBerry Storm also provides 1 GB of onboard memory storage. User can use the microSD/SDHD memory card slot to add up to 16 GB of additional memory storage. The Verizon BlackBerry Storm also offers stereo Bluetooth and 3.5 mm stereo headset jack. There are a lot more features found on the Verizon BlackBerry Storm but I'll leave those to you to find out.

This concludes this post on the Verizon BlackBerry Storm. Keep on tuning in to this blog to get the latest info on wireless networks and new cell phones like the Verizon BlackBerry Storm.

FCC Approves Verizon-Alltel Merge!

Here's an update to the series of post on the Verizon-Alltel merge. In my last post, I bloggged about the decision of the US Department of Justice to allow Verizon Wireless to buy Alltel as long as the wireless network operator complies with the requirements. The Verizon-Alltel merge takes another step towards completion with the blessing of the FCC.

The FCC commissioners held a special meeting to discuss the Verizon-Alltel merge after it had been approved by the DOJ. The FCC has many considerations to look into during this Verizon-Alltel merge meeting including the complaints raised by regional wireless network operators and consumer groups. Regional wireless network operators have appealed against the Verizon-Alltel merge because of the unresolved issues on roaming, spectrum concentration and handset exclusivity.

However, the FCC commissioners in charge of the Verizon-Alltel merge voted unanimously in favor of the deal. Five FCC commissioners voted to allow the Verizon-Alltel merge. Verizon Wireless must fulfill some conditions before it can fully acquire Alltel. For example, the FCC requires that Verizon Wireless must honor Alltel's existing roaming agreements with other wireless network operators for four years. The major wireless network operator must also divest spectrum in 22 states to complete the Verizon-Alltel merge.

Well, I think that this Verizon-Alltel merge approval is a victory for Verizon Wireless. With the Verizon-Alltel merge approval of the FCC, Verizon is one step closer to being the largest wireless network in the United States. Tune in to this blog to get more of the latest news and updates on the Verizon-Alltel merge and other news on wireless network operators and new cellphones.

Verizon's Alltel Acquisition Approved by the DOJ

A few daya ago, I posted about the regional wireless network operators that opposes the Verion-Alltel Union because of the unresolved issues on roaming, spectrum concentration and handset exclusivity. But I've just found out that the DOJ has given its blessing on Verizon Wireless acquisition of Alltel Wireless.

According to PhoneScoop, the US Department of Justice has approved Verizon Wireless's purchase of Alltel Wireless for $28 billion. However, the wireless network operator must divest its wireless assets in 100 markets encompassing 22 states.

Here is a list of states with wireless network assets that Verizon need to divest in order to acquire Alltel Wireless:

North Dakota
South Dakota
Colorado
Georgia
Kansas
Montana
South Carolina
Utah
Wyoming
Alabama
Arizona
California
Idaho
Illinois
Iowa
Minnesota
Nebraska
Nevada
New Mexico
North Carolina
Ohio
Virginia


Of course, the DOJ's approval doesn't mean that the Verizon Wireless and Alltel Wireless union is complete. The FCC will meet on Nov. 4 to vote for the approval of this controversial wireless network acquisition. Let's see if the FCC will heed the appeal of the regional wireless network operators that opposes the Verizon-Alltel Union because of the unresolved issues on roaming, spectrum concentration and handset exclusivity.

If the FCC rule in favor of the Verizon Wireless- Alltel union then the commission will probably call for wireless divestitures similar to those made by the DOJ. If all goes well, then Verizon Wireless will merge with Alltel Wireless to become the biggest wireless network operator in the US.

Tune in to this blog for more news on wireless network operators and other wireless related news.

Regional Wireless Network Opposses Verion-Alltel Union

The news about Verizon Wireless' plan to acquire Alltel first surfaced during the first week of June. It was a significant development in the wireless network industry as it would make Verizon the biggest American wireless carrier. However, many expected that the union will not go smoothly as many obstacles have to be cleared before Alltel completely merges with Verizon Wireless. Another obstacle to the Alltel-Verizon merge have surfaced as some rural or regional carriers have declared their strong opposition.

In an effort to stop Verizon from Acquiring Alltel, some rural wireless network operators have sent a letter to FCC. The letter addressed to Federal Communications Commission Chairman Kevin Martin requested that the commission deny the approval of Verizon Wireless's acquisition of Alltel.

Here's a list of the wireless network operators and wireless associations who signed the letter:

• Leap Wireless
• SouthernLINC
• LCW Wireless
• Revol Wireless
• Mobi PCS
• NTELOS Inc.
• National Telecommunications Cooperative Association
• Rural Telecommunications Group
• Organization for the Promotion and Advancement of Small Telecommunications Companies

The groups and carriers opposing to Verizon Wireless-Alltel union are concerned about the issues that might go unresolved if the FCC allowed the acquisition. The groups and carriers want the FCC to rule on the unresolved issues on roaming, spectrum concentration and handset exclusivity before they vote to allow Verizon Wireless to acquire Alltel. The Federal Communications Commission is scheduled to vote on this issue ion Nov. 4.

These members of the groups that oppose the merge believe that it would be against the interests of the public. They also feel that allowing Verizon to acquire Alltel without properly addressing the unresolved issues on roaming, spectrum concentration and handset exclusivity is anti-competitive and anti-consumer.

If the FCC voted to approve the merger, then Verizon Wireless will surpass AT&T as the biggest wireless network operator in the US. However, the FCC will need to address the concerns expressed by the regional carriers and wireless consumer groups before the Verizon-Alltel union becomes a reality.

I thinks its good that these groups have publicly expressed their stand on the issue. If the FCC do not heed their concerns, then it might be possible that a lot of problems will surface from the union between two major wireless carriers. Tune in to this blog for more news and updates on the the regional and national US carriers.

Motorola's Touchscreen Clamshell Phone Coming to Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless has snagged another touchscreen phone that will be added to its impressive lineup. This time the wireless network operator has launched a touchscreen device from Motorola, the MOTO Krave ZN4.

The Motorola Krave ZN4 is a full touchscreen phone that features a stylish clamshell of flip design. It resembles the Ming, a Motorola clamshell smartphone and combines the patented RAZR look with its touch sensitive display.

The Krave ZN4 touchscreen display offers some new ways of interaction with users. The screen's flip is down users will be able to access a media-focused menu. Opening up the device will allow users to access the calling and messaging features on the Motorola Krave ZN4.

The Motorola Krave ZN4 headed for Verizon Wi9reless offers an accelerometer. This feature Allows the phone to automatically rotate between landscape and portrait modes when the phone is turned. The ZN4 also offers a 2 megapixel fixed-focus camera which can be controlled by the touchscreen display.

The wireless network operator is offering the Motorola Krave ZN4 clamshell touchscreen phone for $150 after rebates and a two year agreement. Verizon subscribers can also get it for $219 on a 1 year contract and $349 without a contract.

Here are the other key features of the Motorola Krave ZN4:

3.5mm headset jack
stereo Bluetooth
EV-DO Rev. 0 radios
microSD slot
full HTML browser
miniUSB port
V CAST Mobile TV
V CAST Video
V CAST Music with Rhapsody
VZ Navigator


Here a list of other Verizon Wireless touchscreen phones:

LG Voyager
LG Dare
Samsung Glyde
Blackberry Storm (not yet available)


Keep on tuning into this blog for more on the latest phones and news.

More Upcoming Mobile Phones for US Wireless Networks

There are some cool additions to the mobile phone lineups of various major US wireless network operators. Let's take a quick look at these upcoming cellphones.

Let's begin with the BlackBerry Storm which will be heading for Verizon Wireless. This launch is probably the most significant launch for this month. The Storm is a major Smartphone and has the potential to make a big impact i9n the Smartphone scene.

The BlackBerry Storm will hit Verizon Wireless stores in November but the pricing info is not unavailable. The Storm is the first touch-screen device manufactured by RIM and sports a touch sensitive 3.26-inch display. It doesn't have the trademark physical full keyboard found on most Blackberries but it has software versions of both QWERTY and SureType text keypads for its touchscreen display.

Verizon's BlackBerry Storm will offer a 3.2 megapixel camera with flash and auto-focus. Users can use the Storm's camera to record videos. It will also offer a generous set of advanced features including 3G support, media player, full HTML browser, 1GB of on-board memory, productivity applications, GPS and Bluetooth wireless technology.

Let's move on to a couple of new cellphones headed for T-Mobile . let's begin with the Nokia 1680. This nice handset may not be classified as a high-end device but it can get the job done for users who are looking for a simple device with decent features.

The Nokia 1680 sports a bar-style design with a slim profile and will be offered for a very affordable $15 after rebate with new agreement. It offers a VGA camera with video capture for users who want to capture those precious moments. It also offers a set of basic features like speakerphone and decent messaging features.

T-Mobile has also added the Samsung t109 to its cellphone lineup. This new mobile phone is offered for free with a contract and sports a clamshell design with dual displays. The t109 has dual-band 850/1900 MHz GSM/EDGE radios and provides access to T-Mobile's T-Zones service. The Samsung t109 has basic features including a speakerphone and various messaging applications.

AT&T also launched a new phone that will be headed to their 3G lineup. The Samsung A637 for AT&T is a 3G phone equipped with quad-band GSM/EDGE radios as well as dual-band 850/1900 MHz HSDPA . It has a bar-style design and is capable of global roaming. The key features for the Samsung A637 include stereo Bluetooth, A-GPS, video share service, 1.3 megapixel camera and live mobile TV.

Those are the latest phones headed for major US Wireless networks. Tune in to this blog for more info on wireless networks and upcoming phones.

New CellPhones for Verizon Wireless

Here's some new mobile phones for Verizon Wireless subscribers. The wireless network operator has a added couple of new clamshells and a slider phone in their cell phone line ups. Let's become familiar with these new Verizon handsets.


Let's begin with the new clamshells form Motorola, the MOTO VU204 and the VU30 Rapture.

The MOTO VU204 is a slim clamshell cellphone designed to offer the every day needs of users and offer useful tools and services offered by Verizon Wireless. The MOTO VU204 is a capable messaging device and offers messaging applications such as e-mail, text messaging, picture messaging and mobile Instant Messaging. This is also a very affordable handset that will be offered for $30 after rebate contract.

Here are the rest of the main features of the MOTO VU204:

VGA camera with 4x digital zoom
2.5mm headset jack
USB 2.0 port
Bluetooth wireless technology,
Verizon Wireless’ Media Center
VZ Navigator


The Motorola VU30 Rapture is also a clamshell mobile phone. This elegant handset features a touch-sensitive external display that provides quick access to music applications. The Rapture also sports a dedicated shutter button for it's 2.0 megapixel camera. This stylish flip phone is available for $130 after rebate with new agreement.

iPhone

Here are the rest of the key features for the Motorola VU30 Rapture:

stereo Bluetooth
2.5mm headset jack
microSD card slot
Verizon's Rhapsody support
VZ Navigator


Verizon is also offering a new slider phone from Samsung, the u650 Sway. This stylish slider phone is being offered for $70 with new agreement after rebates and will be available on October 14. This handset sports an elegant a silver finish and has a great 2 megapixel camera with Night Shot and video recording ability.


Here are highlight features of the Samsung u650 Sway for Verizon Wireless:

stereo Bluetooth
microSD slot
Mobile IM
Hearing aid compatibility
Verizon's V CAST
Rhapsody music store support


Verison Wireless has also announced that its acquisition of Alltel Wireless for $28.1 billion is going as planned. The wireless network operator should completely merge with Alltel by the end of 2008. However, some analysts predict that the merge may not go smoothly. The current US economic crises may pose some problems for Verizon Wireless plans.

That's it for this post. keep on visiting this blog for the latest news and updates on US wireless network operators.