I am still using Idea Cellular service in Pune. But changed from postpaid to prepaid.
The service is good, coverage is excellent. Covers Expressway also. Prompt billing and nice support staff.
The disadvantage over airtel is airtel does not charge Mumbai roaming, while for Idea Mumbai is roaming. So I believe if you are shuttling Pune/Mumbai, AirTel could be a better choice. (Comment on 26/6/04: Maybe this is changed now. Needs verification)
Also online billing info is just eyewash and misleading.
Now the rates are at par for all providers but still my observations is that IDEA coverage is somewhat better.
If you care for service and ready to pay a little extra for it, go for Idea.
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old comment:
In the end, remember just one thing, Idea has delivered everything that is promised (well, excluding web billing!).
While others promise a lot but do not deliver!
}
Some additions on 26-Jun-04:
Those who want to send message to IDEA mobile from Internet: The email to mobile facility is now changed. You have to send another msg (3 Rs) to read email sent to you!!
Here Airtel scores as till today messages to Airtel mobile are going from Yahoo! Messenger. A cost saver!
Now with all sort of technologies & options, I wish to conclude that for first timer, CDMA technology (Reliance/Tata) maybe a better choice in long term. But if you already have a GSM handset, then all (Idea/Airtel/BPL) seem to be at par with some pro & cons here and there. So just stick to your existing number, don’t take pain to changeover!!