[Reader-users] The Word from Verizon About The Symbian Operating System

[Pam Drake]

I phoned Verizon Wireless yesterday and asked whether, based on a rumor I 
had read, they were planning to switch to the Symbian operating system.  I 
was connected with the technical department, as the rep who answered did not 
believe he could reliably answer the question.  After asking why I was 
interested in the information, <which struck me as a tip off to the answer> 
the representative listened to my concerns about a reader-phone combination, 
paused, and gave the answer I had begun to predict.  Unfortunately for 
Reader users she said they have invested so much in developing their cdma 
system that she does not believe there will ever be a change.  If she doubts 
it, then there surely isn't anything on the horizon.

I plan to contact AT&T to find out whether they or any of their affiliates 
have some kind of minutes-per-use card or plan.  We have a family plan with 
Verizont hrough September, and Dave really has no interest in changing 
phones.  There is one town we visit periodically where there is no Verizon 
service; and it would be nice to have a phone there in case of emergency and 
to talk to other AT&T subscribers.  Otherwise the issue isn't really that 
big a deal.  I just wish one could still connect to another carrier when the 
carrier of choice isn't available.  I understand this isn't always possible; 
and and in some areas like Three Rivers, California, AT&T is the only game 
in town.

Thanks.  I just thought I would let the list know that Verizon appears to be 
a no go for the Reader-equipped phones, at least for the foreseeable future.

Pam