NEXTEL
Nextel is a part Sprint and in some offerings,
Sprint hides Nextel's features. The combo
has allowed the two networks to start sharing
cell sites to improve coverage. Nextel's
spectrum is made up from a bunch of 2-way
radio channels, and they suffer from marginal
audio in some markets. Their coverage is
more robust in certain areas than others.
They cover urban areas and some interstates,
but there is little roaming elsewhere in
the state. They have an efficient '2-way'
radio feature which is handy for a business
or a family. Some of their plans aren't very
competitive, but they do offer free incoming
calls. They use 850 MHz so they have a strong
signal in most areas. There are rumors that
Sprint wants to sell off the Nextel network,
which may or may not include Nextel customers.
Pros: The Direct Connect is a handy 'walkie-talkie'
service, they are still improving coverage,
good digital features. Cons: Some markets
have poor audio, they also have coverage
limits and very limited roaming, most of
their phones are big and lack variety, Sprint
has not treated Nextel customers as well
as those using the Sprint network.