Does anyone know whether something like this can be used with Verizon without adding the rodeo cowboy data plan, but simply use WiFi for online connectivity? I was told that any smartphone requires the data plan now if using Verizon and I would rather not have that. Thanks in advance as I refuse to deal with the Verizon folks in my area and online help is not much better. All other carriers in my area pale in comparison in terms of coverage, otherwise I would consider a different carrier.

This is a GSM phone (uses a SIM card).

This is true with Verizon. It stinks. I have this phone and it is OK. It is a little slow. I would consider something else for the price.

Go prepaid, you wont be required for a data plan.

Windows mobile is GARBAGE. This damned OS has been arounf for 12 years and they still haven't got it right. Bberry, iphone, droid, Nokia, palm are all better.

No, iphone and droid are better. This is also WM Smartphone which is usable. Palm WebOS way too slow, Nokia Symbian is garbage. Blackberry is a wash. But all in all would find something else - a used G1 is a much better bet.

Well, HTC brand phones are really good phones.

Verizon will not activate a gsm phone on their network.

Thanks for the feedback everyone. I agree with you #5 and all, WM is still garbage but was hoping for some luck with this one perhaps. I will consider better options than this, esp. for the price. Prepaid may be a better option for my needs; wasn't really considering that. Thanks #4 and all!