Can I use a 8900 on Bell's new GSM network?

[lazer53]

I have a 9630 that's in for repair for a month and they said it can take upto 8 weeks for the repair to complete!

I was given a samsung relacement phone and told there was a long waiting list for BB loan.

I can get an unlocked 8900 from a relative, will it work on Bell's GSM network? according to Bell technical support, their GSM network is 3G only, so only the 9700 would work (although the 9000 would work too considering they are using the same 850/1900 as ATT)

Despite what Bell says, i suspect that that the 8900 would work great.

Does anyone have any info on this? can anyone with Telus or Bell Sim test if it works on the 8900?

thanks tons!

Please note I only need Phone & SMS, although getting BBM would be great!

[berryite]

Originally Posted by lazer53

according to Bell technical support, their GSM network is 3G only ... Please note I only need Phone & SMS, although getting BBM would be great!

3G is for data protocols. I would suspect you might get voice but not data using an 8900. You could always try it and report back.

[lazer53]

My question is, if I should go through the hassle of getting it from the US, and getting a SIM from the store and to switch the account to GSM.

can anyone confirm if voice will work on a 2G phone like the BB 8900?

Thanks!

[lazer53]

according to Iphone site the answer is NO:

iPhone 2G on Bell Network, Possible? - iPhone in Canada Forums - The Canadian iPhone Online Community

it is 3G only for Voice and Text

[belletragie]

I'd go with the what the rep says. I'm sure they wouldn't turn down an opportunity to take your money each month ... just sayin'.

Also, I'm sorry for the (temporary) loss of your phone. That's brutal..

[cire0309]

Originally Posted by berryite

3G is for data protocols. I would suspect you might get voice but not data using an 8900. You could always try it and report back.

I believe Bell uses WCDMA 850 and WCDMA 1900 mhz frequencies. It handles both voice and data, but isn't backward compatible with GSM 850 and GSM 1900.

In Japan, they use WCDMA 2100 mhz for both voice and data, which is why I can use my Tour for both data and calls (although I won't use the phone b/c it's $1.99/min).

I'd go with what your rep said. The 8900 probably won't work on Bell's network if they don't have regular ol GSM.