Verizon Wireless

Pros: 1xRTT data connections; large selection of local calling plans; rolling out new 1xEDVO high-speed data network.

Cons: Short nights and weekend hours; uses BREW instead of Java for gaming; plans can be more expensive than GSM carriers'.

Where can I use this service? 49 states (Alaska not covered); roaming services in Canada.

What should I know about this carrier? Verizon has great picture-messaging features and a wide variety of data plans.