Cell phones

[ICantSpellDawg]

I am looking for the most practical alternative to the big phone services available.

Ideally, I would like to simply have a reliable data plan and no cell service on a smart phone which would allow me to use skype and google voice. Currently, the only option like this is the unlimited data plan from virgin mobile and the "peel" for the ipod touch 2 and 3 (no 4 yet). This poses problems because Apple hasn't included an on-board microphone and speakers. Virgins mobiles actual data/voice plan looks great with no contract, but the pain is in buying one of their phones.

I would love to get a verizon android os phone on my current plan for nothing, switch that new phone to virgin mobile and let my brother use my old slot with my old phone on the old policy to avoid cancellation fees. This would help me avoid buying the virgin phone for $200.

Are there any phones that are open to more than one service? Does anyone have any tips on what to do? I want a cheap/free android capable phone and data/phone service for around $20-$30 per month.

I figured I'd ask here, everybody always has clever life hacks that screw some company legally.

[Gregoshi]

...legally.

You'll never get anywhere with that kind of thinking. Of course, that kind of thinking might keep this thread open.

[Crazed Rabbit]

Carriers often do their best to prevent people from buying a phone and then switching carriers. To buy an 'unlocked' phone will usually cost at least $200.

Virgin mobile works for me, but I had to buy the phone outright. You'll have to research what phones can be switched over to Virgin mobile and if they can keep skype functionality. And if it will be possible to do the switcheroo you want on the Verizon network.

CR