Verizon Rolling Out Nextel-Like PTT Service

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."

Comments

Does anyone use this stuff?

[floamy]

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 :(

Re:Does anyone use this stuff?

[Adam9]

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.

Sure they do

[wordisms]

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.