Nextel's classic walkie-talkie (Direct Connect) on the iDEN network is gone, but modern push-to-talk survives via carrier PTT services and internet apps. Coverage, group sizes and billing now vary - read providers' terms before you sign up.
Practical steps to compare prepaid (pay-as-you-go) phones and plans in 2025: check coverage, compare plans by use case, choose the right device, test service, and factor in customer support.
Prepaid (pay-as-you-go) plans remain a practical way to get mobile service without a long contract. In 2025, many prepaid options include unlimited talk/text and data tiers - but coverage, throttling, international options, and fine print vary. Compare effective cost, coverage, and device rules before you buy.
You can keep your phone number when switching wireless carriers. Local number portability lets you move numbers between providers - including landline-to-mobile and many prepaid numbers - as long as you follow the carrier's porting process and verify account details.