i836 to 7100i

I have i836 right now and I want to get a phone that will be able to sync with Outlook rather than carrying around a pda and a phone. The only option seems to be the 7100i, and I really like the phone, but the data contract I don't like. I don't want to switch away from Nextel and I don't want to pay for the BB contract. It's not the only option, there's still the i930, but I'm not really sold on the phone because of user reviews.

With the way that they sell it, you can't purchase the phone without also going in on the data contract. I complained to Nextel about having to get the data contract, but that was pointless. Anyway, if I manage to get my hands on a 7100i without going through Nextel, it sounds like I still need to get a BB sim card in order to use the phone at all, is that right?

Finally, if I manage to get a 7100i and also get a BB sim card somehow, and then call and get it activated through Nextel (required, right?), will they let me activate without having the data contract?

Much appreciated.

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Do not ask Nextel, their answer will always be "you need a bb plan" (why? cause they want your $$$). And yes you do need a bb sim card..all bb sim cards end with the #s 300 rather than 310 or 330.
After this..call Nextel and ask for the bb customer service number. (if the agent is cool..he'll transfer you) this is were you need to ask if you need the bb plan, if they say you DO need it, hang up and call again (most of the times they say you DONT need it right away and they activate your phone right on the spot.

Do you have any idea of what this process would cost me to go through?

Aside from getting the phone, the sim card is around $30, and from what I understand, is best obtained directly from nextel.

I'm guessing that if I get around going with a data plan that they won't make me sign a new standard contract or renew my current one. Yes, no?

Will they charge me anything for activating the bb? Like an upgrade charge or similar?

Still, thanks for the information.

ebay will sell you a bb sim card for $5 to $10. activate the sim with a bb cust serv. If you activate it with Nextel cust serv, there goes your upgrade eligibility (you will not be charge an upgrade fee on neither one).