Q: What is the new type of Cellular service that GCI offers?
A: GCI's new wireless service is called GSM, Global System for Mobile Communication. This is the most popular form of digital wireless technology in the world today with over 1 billion subscribers worldwide.
Q: What is so special about GSM; why should I switch?
A: GSM has many features that cannot be offered on the older TDMA cellular system. In addition to very high quality voice conversation, our GSM subscribers can also enjoy the latest features in wireless data technology with GPRS and EDGE. With these technologies, our subscribers can take pictures with their camera-equipped wireless phones and send them to other GSM phones or to e-mail accounts. They can also surf the web and download games and ring tones or just check their e-mail.
Q: Will my current cell phone work on the new GSM system?
A: If you currently have a GSM phone that is compatible with Dobson-Cellular One's network, it will work with GCI's GSM network.
A: If you have a GSM phone with another cellular provider it may not be compatible with our provider's network. Visit any GCI Store within the serviceable areas for more details.
A: If you have an Analog or TDMA phone, then you will need to visit one of our GCI Stores to purchase a compatible phone. Special discounted rates are available for our customers with multiple GCI services.
Q: Where can I buy the new GSM phones?
A: GCI's new Wireless phones and services can be obtained at any GCI Store within the serviceable areas.
Q: What will happen to GCI customers who already have cellular service with GCI?
A: Current GCI Cellular customers can remain on their existing plan if they prefer. If not, they can move to a new GSM plan without losing the current cellular number.
Q: Can I switch my cellular number with another provider to GCI's new GSM service?
A: Yes! You can switch your service from ACS, MTA, and Alaska Digitel to GCI without changing your cellular number; however, you will need to purchase a new phone that is compatible with the GSM network. Be sure to bring the most recent bill from your current provider with you when you visit a GCI Store to start the process.
A: You can also switch your service from Cellular One to GCI without changing your cellular number, AND you can keep your current GSM phone as it is network compatible.
Q: Will GCI require long-term contracts?
A: No. Customers who do not want to commit to a contract can sign-up on a month-to-month basis and pay the full retail price for the phone.
A: At GCI, we try our best to satisfy the various needs of all of our customers. For those customers who are interested in saving money on the purchase price of their new phone, GCI offers special discounted phone prices for one and two year contracts.
Q: Can I get a wireless card to plug into my laptop and use the internet?
A: Yes, GCI is currently offering the Sierra Wireless A881u Aircard. See more about that here.
Q: Can I use my new GSM service in the Lower 48 or Hawaii?
A: GCI Wireless customers can enjoy the same service coverage areas as any Cellular One customer.
Q: Can I use my new GSM service outside the United States?
A: Yes. At this time, our network provider has roaming agreements within Canada and Mexico.
A: One of the great things about GSM is that it is used on almost every continent in the world. Our network provider is currently in negotiations to establish roaming agreements with many of the world's GSM providers. We expect this to happen within the next few years.
Q: Can I share my cellular minutes with members of my family?
A: Yes! GCI offers shared minutes with all of our GSM plans. You only have to pay the full plan fee for the first line (host line,) than a reduced monthly fee for each additional line (partner line,) up to three partner lines per host on most GSM plans. Each line will share the same plan; additional options can be added to each line separately.
Q: Can I use the new cellular service with my laptop computer?
A: Yes, you can. You can take advantage of the high speed EDGE data service by purchasing an EDGE PC Card from GCI. With this card, your laptop can access the internet at broadband speeds without any wires. You can surf the net from the same places you make cellular phone calls. Be sure to ask about our Wireless Data Service Packages for Laptops.
A: Another method of using your laptop is to connect it to your data capable GSM cell phone with a special cable. This will allow you to surf the web at broadband speeds. Be sure to ask about our Wireless Data Service Packages for Laptops.
Q: Will my cellular charges appear on the same bill with my other GCI services?
A: Yes, they will appear on the same GCI bill as your telephone and internet services.
Return to Cellular Home.
