Cingular Wireless

Pros: Lets you roll over unused minutes to the following month; variety of data plans, including the EDGE high-speed data network.

Cons: Roaming charges vary; merger with AT&T Wireless could cause confusion.

Where can I use this service? Currently operates in 43 states but has roaming agreements with AT&T Wireless, T-Mobile, Western Wireless, and ETC for full nationwide coverage; offers international roaming in some countries.

What should I know about this carrier? Its merger with AT&T Wireless will create the largest carrier in the United States and expand its network. Cingular also offers FastForward device for automatically forwarding wireless calls to your home or office phone.