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Verizon Rolling Out Nextel-Like PTT Service

Posted by simoniker on from the push-to-trash-talk-extra dept.

aberson writes "Verizon Wireless announced today that it is rolling out a PTT (push to talk) phone service, targetted at business customers. They claim better coverage, 'presence' (away/available), and wireless web for about $10 more than Nextel and $10 more than a non-PTT Verizon plan. Pricing doesn't mention how 'high-speed' data will roll into this (which you can't get on Nextel), but you are using the CDMA2000 network to essentially do VoIP. If only it could be something cross-networkable like Sonim. Just wait a few months for the other carriers to catch up and cellular number portability to be enforced. Ironically, you can only get it on a Motorola made phone. Also, Verizon seems to be not caring about Nextel trying to copyright a generic technical term."

6 of 173 comments (clear)

  1. Does anyone use this stuff? by floamy · · Score: 5, Insightful

    Am I the only one who wants a cell phone that does nothing except phone calls and maybe handle a list of peoples phone numbers? All these crazy features are making me crazy :(

    1. Re:Does anyone use this stuff? by Adam9 · · Score: 5, Insightful

      I don't care for PTT to be used by people in stores, etc. because I find it highly annoying. However PTT is great for company use, especially on construction jobs. I believe Verizon is going to be targeting corporate users first for PTT.

    2. Re:Does anyone use this stuff? by FroMan · · Score: 2, Insightful

      I'll vouch for that.

      My father-in-law and brother-in-law both do construction and are constantly using it to get ahold of each other. My other brother-in-law runs a landscaping business and are the same way with his sons.

      --
      Norris/Palin 2012
      Fact: We deserve leaders who can kick your ass and field dress your carcass.
  2. There is nothing more annoying by aardwolf204 · · Score: 4, Insightful

    There is nothing more annoying than hearing someone try to use this "walkie-talkie" function in public. I sure hope SprintPCS never gets this.

    --
    Im dreaming ofa big bndwdth, That can resist the /.crowd.May ur days b merry & bright & may al
  3. Sure they do by wordisms · · Score: 5, Insightful

    Why do you think Verizon is picking up this feature? Because companies are leaving their current cellular provider for Nextel just for PTT.

    It comes in particularly handy when businesses and oranizations have employees off-site. Everything from delivery to maintenance, sales to construction. It is a very valuable feature for both convenience and saving money.

    Bottom Line: People will leave Verizon for Nextel, and they don't want to lose market-share.

  4. Re:I use it and it is THE DEVIL by radixvir · · Score: 3, Insightful

    i just turn off the speaker when i dont want any radio calls. nextel phones are the best in my opinion because the menus and the way they work in general is the same no matter what phone you have. just hit the speaker button on top once and it mutes it.