Consumer Cellular is a wireless carrier that uses a code-division-root (CDR) approach to delivering services. Their network relies on spot signals from towers and access points to deliver services.
Consumer Cellular was the first national wireless carrier to use this code-division-root (CDR) model, which relies on both the hardware and software components in the network to communicate with clients. This makes it more complex and costly to replace or upgrade the network.
This complexity comes with a price: more expense for service providers who need to maintain and upgrade their networks. It also can lead to fewer competitive options for users, as there is only one choice for service provider located where you live.
This article will talk about some of the benefits of this model, how it affects users, and whether or not it is worth it for you as a user.
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AT&T
AT&T is the largest wireless carrier by market share, with over 100 million customers in 45 states and Canada. It also offers DirecTV and U-verse.
Consumer Cellular’s network coverage is partly dependent on which network a customer uses to connect to the internet, phone or TV. If a customer connects using AT&T’s network, for example, then Consumer Cellular’s coverage does not extend to that subscriber’s home.
Similarly, if a customer connects using Consumer Cellular’s phones on AT&T’s network, then when they travel they can use the cell phone on Consumer Cell as their point-of-entry into the internet, phone and TV networks. This also helps with traveling since you can just take your cell phone and make a connection wherever you are!
These differences make it hard to compare networks for someone looking to switch carriers.
Verizon
If you’re already connected to a Verizon phone, you have the option to become a consumer Cellular customer. As a new customer, you can choose to use your existing plan and decide if and where to switch over to consumer Cellular.
As the new provider, you can either offer your customers attractive savings on their plans or give them the ability to easily switch over. Either way, your customers are going to love it!
If you are looking into switching providers, investigate which carriers are available in your area. You want to be able to easily transition from one carrier to another, as well as find out if there are any limitations on what devices you can have with your account.
T-Mobile
If you live in an area served by T-Mobile, you’re in luck! You can get coverage where no one else can! T-Mobile has a network that covers nearly the entire country, providing coverage to over 100 million people.
T-Mobile has been growing its nationwide network every year and has been expanding it to more areas through their strategic partnership with regional carriers. This partnership allows T-Mobile to gain additional deployment support and resources.
As of late, T-Mobile has been adding spectrum licenses for LTE networks. These licenses are extremely expensive and require a strong signal to have coverage. Some of these added networks have been successful and gained additional subscribers as customers were attracted by the low price point of coverage.
If you want more solid cell phone coverage, look into purchasing a device that operates on the 5 GHz spectrum. This is the most powerful spectrum available and provides far better cellular coverage than the 2 GHz used by most devices today.
Cellular One
If you are looking to transition from your current cell phone provider to a new one, then you may want to look at one of the major providers listed in this article. Some of these providers have agreements in place where they will upgrade your phone for free if you flip over your current plan.
Besides saving money in the long run, switching carriers can be worth it. Each has their own unique services and features, which is what makes it worth switching.
The biggest advantage that the new carrier has is access to their network. If you are looking to make a big purchase or do both at the same time, this might be the right choice for you.
Also, when choosing your new cell phone provider, make sure that they have an app for your device so you can stay connected. It is important that they service you well and that they support my needs as a customer with their app and network.
U.S. Cellular
U. S. Cellular is the primary Verizon Wireless carrier for many Americans. It uses CDMA technology, is well-known for its customer service, and offers great value with its plans.
U.S. Cellular has four basic plans: 1,500 block, 2,500 block, 4,000 block, and 6,000 block. Each plan has a set cost per month for services and add-ons. The difference in these sets is that the 2,500-block plan does not have a monthly charge for accessories like phones or messaging apps but only a cost per month for services.
Because of this difference in features, some people may find another U mobile phone case to be more useful than the basic one offered by U Mobile.
Cricket Wireless
While not an upgrade option, Consumer Cellular does partner with Cricket Wireless to offer new customers a free phone. New customers who take the initiative to sign up for a Cricket Wireless account through myMobileFreeFree.com can get a new phone free of charge!
New customers receive a phone for signing up for a 3-month plan. After that, they can upgrade to a full 5-month plan at no cost, as long as they keep the phone. After that, they can upgrade to a full 12-month plan at no cost, as long as they keep the phone.
This is very attractive to those who do not want to spend lots of money on phones and need something easy and affordable for themselves and their family. It is also great for those who are looking to replace their current device but does not require major financial investment.
MetroPCS
Consumer Cellular uses the MetroPCS brand as its flagship wireless service. This brand was once a major competitor to T-Mobile, though they have now merged with it and rebranded as Metro PCS.
Metro PCS is an upscale brand that offers a higher-quality, more comprehensive wireless plan than what you’ll find on lower-end carriers. Its mobile site is very modern and attractive, making it easy to identify and choose their plan.
Their website also includes a detailed coverage map and instructions on how to contact their customer service team in case of an emergency. This is important to have, since many people rely on it in case of an emergency.
The included emergency alerts include audible and visual prompts, making it easy to identify what’s happening at home or in the community.
Starz Wireless
For those looking for a little more privacy, Consumer Cellular offers a Starz Wireless plan. This plan allows you to have just one phone on the account, and it blocks all other phones from the network.
This is great for keeping your calls and texts private, as only your phone is connected to the network. You can also choose not to have an account setup on the Network, which would definitely help with privacy.
This plan does not require you to be connected to a cell phone carrier, so it is perfect if you do not want to deal with monthly fees oratible plans. It is also great for those who do not want or need a service plan because of what they do.
This may seem like an obvious choice, but we will talk about it again. Many people miss out on features due to this.