The first time Verizon Wireless introduced home phone service was in the form their Hub device in 2009, as an all-in-one multimedia unit, but it never really caught-on as it required an constant broadband internet connection.
Last year this was replaced with a simplified Verizon Home Phone Connect unit (Huawei FT2260VW). It was easier to install than the Hub; just connect you home phone to it, and the device would use Verizon's cellular network for all incoming and outgoing calls with your home phone number.
Now Verizon has a newer Home Phone Connect (model F256) that is said to be 43% smaller than the previous model, and now supports full CallerID with Name & Number, as last years model was only capable of the CallerID Number. The remaining features are still there: 3-way calling, call-waiting, and voice mail. It also includes a 1500mAh back-up battery, which allows up to 3 hours of talk time or 43 hours of standby time if the power goes out.
Pricing of the new Home Phone Connect F256 is $19.99 with a 2-year contract, or $129.99 without any strings attached, and $19.99/month for unlimited calling minutes. Now if Verizon would offer unlimited mobile-phone minutes for the same price!
UPDATE 1/14/2012 We've heard from Verizon and the new model does support CallerID Name & Number, but it is a special feature that is $2.99/month extra. This feature can be added or removed at any time.
Mint Mobile is now allowing you to get whichever plan you like for either three, six, or 12 months for just $15/mo. If you go for the six-month unlimited service, for instance, you'll now have to pay just $90 upfront instead of $210.
Sam Earley, is a former reviews and news writer at PhoneArena. His incredibly productive run included numerous reviews and comparison articles of breakthrough products, such as the Motorola DROID X, Verizon Pre 2, HTC Thunderbolt and many others.
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