Cell phones/radar

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05-25-2009, 07:12 PM

SayAgain

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Cell phones/radar

I need to upgrade my cell phone and am currently not on a plan. Wondering if I should get a Blackberry, Iphone or something else. Would like to be able to get radar while sitting at the gate. Also, being a regional pilot with a child to feed - cost is a factor. Appreciate any thoughts, comparisons, pricing, coverage etc. Would also be willing to sign up with a provider plan to save $$ on the phone.

05-25-2009, 07:20 PM

rumrunner

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Happens to be my forte - although a weekend GA warrior, in my day-job I am an Executive for a wireless company. I know the applications you seek and can also steer you to the right carrier for your needs - not necessarily my carrier. PM if you wish.

05-25-2009, 07:32 PM

WIPilot

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I have an Iphone now and I love it. I used to have a smart phone (similar to) the blackberry and was really dissapointed. I think the Iphone is the best mobile phone platform out there. Though, it is probably the most expensive also I believe?

05-25-2009, 07:48 PM

rumrunner

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Quote:

Originally Posted by WIPilot

WIpilot - yeah, the iphone is a great phone with a lot of capabilities, but you are also correct that the phone and required plan is on the top-end of MRC (Monthly recurring charge) from ATT. There are a number of phones out there that will achieve desired application services at a competitive price and at a reasonable MRC. If you want a nice radar picture, you can grab one of the free pictures from such services as The Weather Channels mobile page, but if you want detail, you can go with something like WingX or even Weathertap - both of which have an aviation based section. Heck, DUATS even has a great service too.

To the original post, every Tier 1 carrier has an MRC discount of at least 20% for the majors and connection carriers- mine offers 25% and some other perks like activation waivers, etc.

05-25-2009, 08:00 PM

3GreenKSNA

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I have a 1000 min a month tmobile plan for 39 it's ten more bucks for basic internet, eg non black berry/PDA.

Any basic cell phone that has internet capability is able to access the national weather service's non Java radar pages. These pages are not necessarily geared for aviation but they do display svr weather watch and warning boxes.

I'm able to get the same weather info my buddy does on his iphone for about 30 less a month so it is possible.

05-25-2009, 08:38 PM

AmericanEagleFO

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I have an iPhone and I love it. However, the best radar I found wasn't an app, but a website. Granted it is formatted for the iPhone, but it should work for anyone.
Http://www.iweathr.com

05-26-2009, 04:31 AM

SayAgain

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Thanks! I have a great deal with tmobile now - 1500 mins for 39. I hate to have that go up, but forgot I'm going to need internet access too. Well off to shop...