Mobile Phone Quick Reference

• Does NUIT offer mobile phone service plans?
• What features should I consider when buying a mobile phone?
• How do I choose the right service plan for my needs?
• Where can I buy a mobile phone?
• Can I change providers and still keep my current mobile phone number?

Does NUIT offer mobile phone service plans?

NUIT does not currently offer cell phone service as a resource to the University. In the past, NUIT held a contract with Cingular Wireless to provide cell phone service to University users. However, NUIT has since dissolved this contract, allowing users to choose what service best fits their needs. University users must contact providers directly or work with their departments to obtain service; discuss options with your department before signing up for service intended to suit your business needs.

What features should I consider when buying a mobile phone?

Choosing a mobile phone typically requires a series of tradeoffs in terms of features and prices. Features such as larger displays, color display, and wireless Internet capability raise prices. Before shopping, consider how you plan to use the device and evaluate which features are most important to you. For detailed information on determining which features fit your needs, refer to Mobile Phone Features and Manufacturers.

How do I choose the right service plan for my needs?

Typically, you will select a service provider before you pick out a phone, since different handsets only work with specific networks. Some factors to consider when purchasing a service plan include:

• Coverage Areas — Coverage is the geographical area within which a mobile phone can make and receive calls without incurring roaming or long distance fees. Check whether providers cover areas to which you frequently travel, especially smaller towns or rural areas. International travelers who have a phone that can function outside the United States should also investigate carriers' international roaming policies.
• Minutes — Wireless service plans provide a fixed amount of airtime minutes for each month. If you exceed the limit, you pay more. Pinpoint the carrier's definition of times for peak, off-peak and weekend hours. Many plans offer more or unlimited minutes for night and weekend calls.
• Contracts — You may have to sign a one- or two-year contract for mobile service. Ask whether you can downsize or upgrade your cellular phone package during this period for free. You will be subjected to a fee if you cancel service before this time expires.

Where can I buy a mobile phone?

There are several mobile phone vendors in the Chicago and Evanston areas. Rate plans and offerings change frequently, and service availability levels vary in the Evanston area. Typically, you choose a carrier before selecting a phone. Carriers often include free or discounted phones when you subscribe to their service.

• www.wireless.att.com
• www.t-mobile.com
• www.sprint.com
• www.verizonwireless.com
• www.uscellular.com

Can I change providers and still keep my current mobile phone number?

Wireless Local Number Portability (LNP) allows consumers to switch wireless carriers within the same metropolitan area while retaining their original phone number.

• To transfer a number from one carrier to another, consumers should contact their prospective service provider who will then contact the old company with a porting request. Bringing a current wireless bill with the correct name and address on it to the prospective carrier will hasten this process.
• Carriers may charge a fee for porting an existing number to a new carrier. However, sometimes the new carriers may pay this fee.
• Consumers who have signed long-term contracts with their carriers must pay any termination fee that the company may charge.
• Users should be aware they might have to purchase a new phone when switching carriers, since handsets are commonly only compatible with certain services.