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NYC Information Technology & Telecommunications
Consumer Information: Mobile Phone Survey
Between October 27, 2003 and October 20, 2004, the City of New York collected information to identify locations throughout the five boroughs where customers experienced mobile phone reception problems. This information was then shared with service providers to help them improve service throughout the City.

The survey results include information about the mobile phone providers serving New York City: AT&T Wireless, Cingular Wireless, Nextel, Sprint PCS, T-Mobile, and Verizon Wireless.

Map of the Density of Reported Reception Problems
This map was generated from data submitted by New Yorkers who called 311 or filled out a form on NYC.gov, from October 27 to April 21, 2004, to report problems with their mobile telephone service. Some information about this map:
  • The map is divided into cells that are colored, according to the number of reports within a certain radius of the cell and the proximity of the reports to the center of the cell, resulting in bands of color.
  • The maps are presented for informational purposes only; the data is not the product of a scientific survey. All data was self-reported. Individuals were able to submit anonymous reports. Individuals were able to submit multiple reports concerning the same location(s).
  • The City of New York has not independently verified the existence of actual service problems at the reported locations. The map shows the relative number of problem reports for all service providers. It does not make any comparison between the service providers.
  • There have been no adjustments based on population density or time of day. Moreover, reports may reflect temporary conditions, service interruptions, handset equipment failures or other matters, and do not necessarily reflect an absence of mobile service at the identified location.
  • Reports concerning indoor use of mobile phones have not been included in the map. Reports that did not include specific geographic information, such as an address or intersection, have also not been included in the map.
Remember to research all the costs related to switching cellular carriers. Check your contract; early cancellation may be expensive. Check your phone, too, as you may not be able to use it with a different carrier. Finally, check your current usage so you choose a new plan that works for you.

See the map of the density of reported reception problems (PDF)
AT&T Wireless reported reception problems (PDF)
Cingular Wireless reported reception problems (PDF)
Nextel reported reception problems (PDF)
Sprint PCS reported reception problems (PDF)
T-Mobile reported reception problems (PDF)
Verizon Wireless reported reception problems (PDF)
Download tips for choosing a provider (PDF)
Learn more about phone number portability (PDF)

Mobile Phone Service Provider Complaints

Please note that while DoITT collected mobile phone service information from residents, the department does not accept complaints about service providers. Contact your service provider directly with any complaints you may have. The following providers serve New York City:


AT&T Wireless
Cingular Wireless
Nextel
Sprint PCS
T-Mobile
Verizon Wireless

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