ubuntu-us-nj Openmoko Group Buy option

[Luis R. Rodriguez]

On Sun, Apr 20, 2008 at 1:54 PM, Joe Terranova <joeterranova at gmail.com> wrote:
> That's good to know, but I still don't think I can get a device that
>  only supports GPRS.

ACK, as per AT&T their GRPS averages at 35 kbps. Anyone know someone
using GPRS to make calls over VoIP? What's the quality like? I don't
expect it to be well. Remember for a standard phone line you require
64 kbps, hence the speed of each 24 signals on a T1 line which regular
carriers and even VoIP carriers use for conversations. With Edge on
AT&T you'll get rates between 75 to 135 kbps.

> I want my next cell phone to be 3g/edge; I'd
>  really like to see this in the OpenMoko, as it would mean I'd be able
>  to use SIP all the time, use it as a modem for my laptop, and eclipse
>  my n810. You say the hardware's ready, but it's not, at least not for
>  me -- it only supports GPRS, and no software update is ever going to
>  change that.

Hey its at least some progress. I also want to throw out my regular
cell phone. I'm curious, I also have an n810, what don't you like
about it? It supports Edge and I think the data rate plan with AT&T is
35$/month or $65/month with tethering (sharing your connection with
your laptop).

>  If it really does support every GSM carrier, then the cellular
>  provider page needs to be updated, or a page needs to be added for the
>  FreeRunner:
>  http://wiki.openmoko.org/wiki/Neo1973_compatible_cellphone_providers#United_States
>  The current page gives very specific circumstances in which it can be
>  used (T-Mobile only with a prepaid SIM?), and has some contradictory
>  information (it works with AT&T, but may stop working for Cingular
>  when they're acquired by AT&T?). I see no corresponding page for the
>  FreeRunner.

To add to the confusion here's a talk I had with an AT&T
representative. I idled on their data plan page and then got a pop up
about an invitation to chat. Pretty nice feature. Unfortunately the
representative wasn't so helpful. I believe you'll find our talk
entertaining though.

Chat InformationThank you for your patience! An AT&T sales
representative will be with you shortly.
Chat InformationYou are now chatting with Tanya, an AT&T sales representative.
Tanya: Welcome to AT&T online Sales support.  How may I assist you
with placing your order today?
Luis: I'm looking to buy an openmoko phone
Luis: it supports GPRS
Luis: What are the GPRS plans you have?
Luis: And also I have another device capable of using Edge
Luis: what rates do you have for GPRS and what rates do you have for Edge
Tanya: Do you mean GPS?
Luis: no, GPRS
Tanya: I am not sure what that means?
Luis: You should
Tanya: I am sorry, but I've never heard of an "openmoko" phone.
Luis: http://openmoko.com/
Tanya: We don't support that.
Luis: yes you do!
Tanya: One moment please.
Luis: I'm looking at the PDA Personal plan
Tanya: My supervisor is telling me that we do not offer it and
therefore I cannot comment on it. I am sorry.
Luis: I'd like to know what is supported with this, is it GRPS or Edge
Luis: You do not offer what?
Luis: You realize I will be posting this on a public mailing list?
Luis: There is a large group of people interested in getting their
openmoko working with AT&T
Tanya: Our PDA plans support our 3G network and Edge.
Luis: Do you have any plans that only offer GPRS?
Tanya: That is great and if AT&T starts doing that, I am sure I will
be trained on it.
Tanya: I apologize, Luis, but I do not have any information on that.
Tanya: Thank you for choosing AT&T.  Have a great day.
Luis: Sure, bye.

  Luis