Very dissapointed...don't know where to turn

I have been dealing with Cingular (Cellular one before) for many years and I am very disapointed that you don't offer Discounted cell phones as replacemets (as in my case my phone was damaged due to a flood I had in my home the other day) for current cell phone service holders. I just renewed in August 2005 (3 phones) and unfortunately did not get insurance on my Sony-Ericsson phone (never needed a warranty in over 10 yrs!) and now I was told I had to buy a new phone at retail when I went over to the Cingular store today! I was willing to take a lower-grade phone just so I had one but I received no help. I was told that my phone (because the screen was cracked and it had been in water) would probably not be fixable. I inquired about warranties and the salesperson told me that my problem was not covered. I am so dissapointed that I am seriously considering ending my relationship with Cingular and going to Verizon even if I have to eat the cancellation fee. I don't understand why a long-time customer like me doesn't get a break in time of need....

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› See More: Very dissapointed...don't know where to turn

What kind of phone did you have?

Sony-Ericcson Z500a? The camara phone that flips...

Well they offer the insurance program for reasons just for that, but I can understand if you don't have it after not needing it for 10 years, but you never know. Now the phones over at Cingular full price can be a bit expensive, so I suggest you find retail store that sells used/refurbished or replacement phones. They have phones that are unlocked and are for replacement only which shouldn't be too pricey. We sell ones like that at my store that start at $55, I mean they aren't going to be nice camera phones or anything like that but they do work.

The only reason I got this phone was because of the promotion (cost me $20.00 after rebates and sign up for another 2 yrs)... I don't even use the camara so believe me a simple phone that works is all I need and want. I will check out retailers but then my next question is are SIM cards (the one in my phone right now if not damaged) universal (brand to brand) or do I have to stick with Sony?

Your Cingular sim card will work with any Cingular phone or any unlocked phones, which means they will work with any sim card.

Can someone explain to me what the difference is in a DUAL BAND (not mode) versus a TRI-BAND phone? I am shopping for a replacement phone....does it matter which one I get....I only need it to make calls...not looking for any super features like internet, games, or camara. Any phone recommendations (looking NOT to spend more than $60)

Originally Posted by yjkaries

...disapointed that you don't offer Discounted cell phones as replacemets (as in my case my phone was damaged due to a flood I had in my home the other day) for current cell phone service holders. I just renewed in August 2005 (3 phones) and unfortunately did not get insurance on my Sony-Ericsson phone (never needed a warranty in over 10 yrs!) and now I was told I had to buy a new phone at retail when I went over to the Cingular store today!....

Won't your home insurance, assuming you have flood ins., cover items that were damaged?

I feel for you, but why would Cingular get into the business of flood replacements?

Do you also expect your appliance store to sell you discounted items due to being their customer?

Good luck with finding a replacement. This is an unfortunate event, but please do not place blame where it should not be.

I also hope that the flood did not cause any major chaos in your life. I've seen how it can disrupt a family's life with some of my friends. Good luck.

-nic

Dual-Band phones are capable of be used on two frequencies and Tri-Band phones are capable of three. The only thing you should worry about is if the phone you want to get works with a Cingular sim card.

So a dual band phone is ok then...I don't plan on going to Europe anytime soon TY

as long as it is 850/1900.

Originally Posted by nic_hitchins

Won't your home insurance, assuming you have flood ins., cover items that were damaged?

I feel for you, but why would Cingular get into the business of flood replacements?

Do you also expect your appliance store to sell you discounted items due to being their customer?

Good luck with finding a replacement. This is an unfortunate event, but please do not place blame where it should not be.

I also hope that the flood did not cause any major chaos in your life. I've seen how it can disrupt a family's life with some of my friends. Good luck.

-nic

Great point

OK, I need to explain briefly the "flood" since I was not clear on this: This flood occurred on our property due to my above-ground pool literally falling apart sending streams (or should I say rivers) of water cascading onto our back and side yard. To cross my driveway which is slightly below the area (perhaps as much as 2 inches of water) so from my car to the front of my home crossing the flooded driveway my bag fell...contents of my bag became water logged....my phone was on the side (pocket) and upon the drop, fell into the water and cracked the LCD panal.

No flood insurance in my area since I don't live in a flood-prone area and flood insurance is not a factor. Since the damage was minimal it was not a homeowner policy issue.

Anyway....I just purchased a replacement phone and putting this unfortunate incident behind. Thank you for your responses.

ok, thanks for clearing that one up.

lol

btw, that's way better than a flooded house.

Originally Posted by nic_hitchins

ok, thanks for clearing that one up.

lol

btw, that's way better than a flooded house.

Agreed