The Sprint-Nextel merge has been approved and the two companies will now hold the position as the nation's third largest cell phone company, with more than 35 million customers. What does this merger mean for consumers?
In the long run, it's another blow to consumers' pocketbooks, as less competition in the wireless market likely spells an end to the lower prices and innovative services. More immediately, customers of Sprint and Nextel, and consumers considering signing on with either of these companies, should be aware that the two companies operate incompatible networks.
In the fall of 2005 all stores will become Sprint stores that sell both Sprint PCS branded phones and Nextel phones. At that time, PCS to PCS calling on Sprint's network becomes mobile-to-mobile and will include Nextel's customers, according to discussions with a Sprint representative.
Some things to watch for:
- Existing customers should also carefully check their bills to make sure there are no errors, because the process of combining two huge billing systems leaves plenty of room for glitches
- Make sure to read your contract carefully to completely understand the new terms of service
- Remember that when you change your service plan in any way, you could be agreeing to another one-year or two-year contract
- New customers and those considering renewing their contracts should specifically ask about the phone issue
- Make sure the written contract guarantees that a new phone, fully functional on the combined network, will be provided at no additional cost
