[caption id="attachment_623" align="aligncenter" width="450" caption="Bell Mobility GSM Users Go Without Mobile Serice Across Large Areas of Canada"][/caption]

Bell Mobility users have been eating up new HSPA devices like the iPhone and BlackBerry® BoldTM. But many of Bell’s HSPA early adopters are encountering some significant problems.

One major problem is that Bell’s network does not mirror its existing network coverage. Currently, there are large areas of Canada where users of Bell iPhones and other new Bell Mobility GSM devices will be without network service, even though other Bell devices (non-HSPA) would work.

For Bell, which currently operates three different wireless networks, this issue is not new. At present, Bell users across Canada connect to Bell through their 1xRTT network (first-generation) or EVDO (second-generation) networks. In markets with higher populations, both networks are available on top of each other. In more rural areas, however, only the 1xRTT network is available. This network issue poses no problem for Bell’s existing CDMA users because both the older 1x phones and the newer EVDO phones both have one common denominator: both operate on Bell’s slower 1x network.

But users of today’s HSPA phones do not have the luxury of defaulting to Bell’s 1x standard. So when an iPhone user leaves Bell’s HSPA network, his shiny new iPhone turns into a very attractive paperweight.

So beware: if you are planning to drive across the country with your Bell HSPA device to take in the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver, expect no phone usage throughout rural Ontario, in 99% of Manitoba, and in all of Saskatchewan. This could mean days and days with no cellular service.

Interesting… The new HSPA devices now allow Bell users to use their phones in over 200 countries worldwide. At home, however, many could experience service issues while on the road.

And if you liked this article you can find more articles and videos for Bell Mobility users at http://cellarama.com/articles/ - At http://cellarama.com you’ll also find great contract-free cell phones for Bell Mobility. Written by A. Thompson

[caption id="attachment_626" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Bell Mobility GSM HSPA Coverage Map"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_627" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Bell Mobility 1X EVDO Coverage Map"][/caption]

What happens when you need to access the Internet from your laptop and there is no Wi-Fi available?  Until recently, as a Bell customer, you had few options. If you had a compatible phone, you could use your cell phone as a modem for the Internet (this could be very costly) or you could use a Bell laptop card or USB Internet stick.

What if you needed to connect more than one device to the Internet (say, a second laptop or a cellular phone)? Well, until now there was no easy solution.

Enter the MiFiTM, Bell Mobility’s latest portable Internet device.

The MiFi box creates mobile Wi-Fi hotspots, allowing up to five devices to connect to the Internet simultaneously. Worried about having to lug this huge device around with you?  Don’t be. At about three ounces in weight and around the size of a deck of cards, the MiFi will not be an inconvenience to carry.

Formally called the Novatel MiFi 2372, the MiFi offers download speeds up to 7.2 megabits per second. The hotspot generated is up to 30 feet.

With the launch of the MiFi, Bell is the first cellular operator in Canada to offer this service. With the holidays approaching and families on the move, Bell Mobility’s timing could not be better for its launch.

Currently, the MiFi will set you back $199 at your Bell dealer or $99 on a three-year contract.

Google’s Android operating system for cellular phones is fast becoming a popular choice for cell phone users.  In the past few months we’ve seen Android phones moving north into Canada.  Rogers’ Android offering includes the HTC Magic, and Telus recently announced an exclusive deal with Motorola to bring the “Milestone” (think or Verizon’s Droid).

This month Bell has tipped it’s hat into the Android ring with the soon coming Samsung Galaxy.  The Galaxy is no light-weight either, running Android 1.5, it is the slimmest Android device on the market to date, it also has a 3.2 inch touchscreen.  And of course in Android fashion it comes with easy access to all of your familiar Google apps including Google’s new (and free) GPS service.

Currently details on pricing and it’s release date are few.  But we can expect some additional details to follow soon.  Please check back at the Cellarama blog for updates as they arise (http://cellarama.com/articles).

[caption id="attachment_512" align="aligncenter" width="491" caption="Bell cuts controversial tax"][/caption]

This Summer Rogers dumped it’s monthly SAF charge (oddly enough Rogers customers bills increased), last month Telus followed by ridding their SAF charge.  As early as November 20th Bell Mobility, that last of the big three Canadian carriers with a monthly SAF, will announce the elimination of their SAF.

What is the SAF?  The SAF is short for “System Access Fee”.  All three carriers have positioned the fee as a monthly charge that covers network maintenance and upgrades.

Here’s Bell Mobility’s official explaination:

The System Access Fee is charged monthly by Bell to help recover the costs associated with operating and maintaining a wireless network, including costs for ongoing maintenance, new equipment installations and technology upgrades.

The fee varied by carrier from $6.95 to $8.95 per month plus 911 Fees.

Of course there are still many BIG questions like:

1. How will Bell implement the elimination of the charge? Will they, like Rogers, increase the cost of their package by an amount greater than their current cost of their SAF.  Or will Bell follow Telus’ example and put a couple of bucks back in the pocket of their customers?

2. The second BIG question is will this change apply immediately to all customers on all plans, or will this apply to only new monthly plans forcing customers to upgrade their plans to get the savings?

Ultimately this should be good news for Cellarama customers everywhere.

Let’s wait for the official announcement and see.

To your wireless success,
Alvin

[caption id="attachment_485" align="aligncenter" width="450" caption="Free Bell Mobility BlackBerry Manuals"][/caption]

Have you been looking for your Bell Mobility BlackBerry User Manual Online?

Just when you need your user guide the most there’s a great chance you won’t have it near you!  This simple resource is your easy access to Bell Mobility BlackBerry user manuals.  Simply find your model below and click on the link:

Bell Mobility Blackberry User Guides (PDF)

Bell Blackberry 6750 BlackBerry User Guide(english)(francais)
Bell Blackberry 7130e User Guide(english)(francais)
Bell Blackberry 7250 User Guide(english)(francais)
Bell Blackberry 7750 User Guide(english)(francais)
Bell Blackberry 8703e User Guide(english)(francais)
Bell Blackberry 8830 World Edition User Guide(english)(francais)
Bell Blackberry Pearl 8130 User Guide(english)(francais)
Bell Blackberry Curve 8330 User Guide(english)(francais)
Bell Blackberry Storm 9530 User Guide(english)(francais)
Bell Blackberry Tour 9630 User Guide(english)(francais)
Bell Blackberry Bold 9000 User Guide(english)(francais)
Bell Blackberry Bold 9700 User Guide(english)(francais)

And if you liked this article you can find more articles and videos for Bell Mobility users at http://cellarama.com/articles/ - At http://cellarama.com you’ll also find great contract-free cell phones for Bell Mobility. Written by A. Thompson

Have you ever forgotten to take your Bell Mobility cell phone out of your pocket before tossing your clothes in the washer?  Maybe you’ve gone swimming completely forgetting you had your cell phone on you? Whatever the reason for your wet cell phone if you are fast enough you just might be able to salvage it. Use this simple guide.

Be Quick - As fast as possible get it out of the water.  Even though phones are pretty tightly sealed in under 20 seconds water can penetrate the seal. Grab your Bell phone out of the water as quick as you can. Remove the phone from the case (if it was in a case).

Don’t Panic – If you’re quick and you get your phone out of the water as quick as possible there’s a good chance it won’t be too seriously damaged.

Take the Battery Out – Immediately remove the battery from your Bell phone. The faster you can cut power to your phone the more likely it is you’ll be able to save it.

Dry Your Cell Phone – You need to work fast to remove as much water as you can as quick as you can. Shake your phone to remove as much water as possible. Then use a paper towel to soak up any remaining water.

Inside Water Removal – Place the cell phone on absorbent towels or paper towels that will pull the remaining water away from the cell phones components. Rice also works well to absorb moisture, even that which is trapped under the screen. Place your drying Bell cell phone near a heater to help accelerate the drying process. (Do not place your phone directly on top of a hot heater as the direct may also cause damage.)

Your goal here is to make sure no water is trapped inside.  When no signs of moisture are evident move onto the next step

Test it – After 96 hours inspect your phone.  If everything looks dry you can replace the battery, put the case back together, power it up, and see if it works. If it works, great, you’re back in business.

It is important that there are no signs of moisture on you Bell cell phone before you turn it on.  Water in your phone causes the most damage when your phone is powered on, so if you doubt that your phone is complete dry outside and inside give it more time.

If your phone doesn’t work, try plugging your phone directly to the charger with the battery out. This will determine if the problem is with your phone or if you are in need of a new battery. If it works without the battery you’ll have to replace it, and you’ll be back up and running.

If it still doesn’t work your phone may be dead.  If you decide to take your phone into a Bell World or Espace Bell store for assistance don’t try to hide that your phone has been wet. There are moisture indicators and in most cases they’ll know.

Of course if your phone is toast, and you are not eligible for an upgrade from Bell or if you are like me and do not like contracts, I would recommend you visiting http://cellarama.com/clearance_centre.htm for great contract-free Bell Mobility cell phones.

And if you liked this article, you can find more articles and videos for Bell Mobility users at http://cellarama.com/articles/. At http://cellarama.com, you’ll also find great contract-free cell phones for Bell Mobility. Written by A. Thompson

To maximize the usefulness and life of your Bell Mobility cell phone, treat yourself to some accessories that will help you get the best service from your phone. Here are some key cell phone accessories that we recommend.

Protect your Bell phone with a cell phone case. To help your phone stand up to the bumps and scratches that come with everyday use, slip it into a case, or skin, that fits the shape of your phone and your lifestyle. Available in a variety of colors and designs, a cell phone case or skin can be changed often, but will always serve as a protective layer around your phone’s electronics. When you select your case, take your phone with you, to ensure a perfect fit and a good look.

Get a battery charger or new battery for more phone power. Why invest in a cell phone if you can’t make calls because the battery’s low? Keeping your cell phone charged is essential to getting the most use out of it. Purchasing a travel charger that can juice up your Bell cell phone between usage times is a must. For those who travel by car, a car phone charger, which plugs into the dashboard, can ensure that your phone is ready to use when you arrive at your destination. If your phone’s battery is not providing power long enough no matter how often you charge it, don’t waste time. Replace the current battery with a more powerful version.

Increase your phone’s storage with a memory card. A phone is not just a talking device anymore. If you’re like me, you are increasingly using your phone to store pictures, videos, and more. Lately, Bell Mobility has been introducing more cell phones with memory card slots. With a memory card to boost the storage capacity of your phone, you won’t have to worry about running out of space for the things you want to store. Memory cards provide additional storage at a cost that’s lower than ever before. With the additional memory, you can also consider installing applications on your phone that you didn’t have room for before. The sky’s the limit! Why restrict yourself? A memory card is the simple answer to your storage problems.

Get earpieces or a headset to deliver the sound directly to you. Better yet, get Bluetooth®! To hear your phone conversations better, get earpieces or a headset to deliver the sound directly to your ears while decreasing background noise. Better yet, get a Bluetooth wireless headset, which make hands-free talking simple and convenient, allowing you to talk without headset wires. Not to mention, many provinces are making it the law when driving.

Enhance your listening with speakers. For the audiophiles among us, wireless speakers are the latest in phone technology to enhance the quality of the sound received. And speaker functions can be integrated with phone functions, to allow for the best reception for both uses.

One thing about your cell phone: If you treat it right, it will repay you with good service and long life. Treat yourself to the right accessories and maximize your experience with your Bell Mobility cell phone.

And if you liked this article you can find more articles and videos for Bell Mobility users at http://cellarama.com/articles/ - At http://cellarama.com you’ll also find great contract-free cell phones for Bell Mobility.  Written by A. Thompson

To maximize the usefulness and life of your Bell Mobility cell phone, treat yourself to some accessories that will help you get the best service from your phone. Here are some key cell phone accessories that we recommend.

Protect your Bell phone with a cell phone case. To help your phone stand up to the bumps and scratches that come with everyday use, slip it into a case, or skin, that fits the shape of your phone and your lifestyle. Available in a variety of colors and designs, a cell phone case or skin can be changed often, but will always serve as a protective layer around your phone’s electronics. When you select your case, take your phone with you, to ensure a perfect fit and a good look.

Get a battery charger or new battery for more phone power. Why invest in a cell phone if you can’t make calls because the battery’s low? Keeping your cell phone charged is essential to getting the most use out of it. Purchasing a travel charger that can juice up your Bell cell phone between usage times is a must. For those who travel by car, a car phone charger, which plugs into the dashboard, can ensure that your phone is ready to use when you arrive at your destination. If your phone’s battery is not providing power long enough no matter how often you charge it, don’t waste time. Replace the current battery with a more powerful version.

Increase your phone’s storage with a memory card. A phone is not just a talking device anymore. If you’re like me, you are increasingly using your phone to store pictures, videos, and more. Lately, Bell Mobility has been introducing more cell phones with memory card slots. With a memory card to boost the storage capacity of your phone, you won’t have to worry about running out of space for the things you want to store. Memory cards provide additional storage at a cost that’s lower than ever before. With the additional memory, you can also consider installing applications on your phone that you didn’t have room for before. The sky’s the limit! Why restrict yourself? A memory card is the simple answer to your storage problems.

Get earpieces or a headset to deliver the sound directly to you. Better yet, get Bluetooth! To hear your phone conversations better, get earpieces or a headset to deliver the sound directly to your ears while decreasing background noise. Better yet, get a Bluetooth wireless headset, which make hands-free talking simple and convenient, allowing you to talk without headset wires. Not to mention, many provinces are making it the law when driving.

Enhance your listening with speakers. For the audiophiles among us, wireless speakers are the latest in phone technology to enhance the quality of the sound received. And speaker functions can be integrated with phone functions, to allow for the best reception for both uses.

One thing about your cell phone: If you treat it right, it will repay you with good service and long life. Treat yourself to the right accessories and maximize your experience with your Bell Mobility cell phone.

And if you liked this article you can find more articles and videos for Bell Mobility users at http://cellarama.com/articles/ - At http://cellarama.com you’ll also find great contract-free cell phones for Bell Mobility.  Written by A. Thompson