[cobra9777]

Too much focus on the handset itself. Seems to me, you should shop for a network and a rate plan first. Ultimately, you will spend more on service than hardware. And your overall experience will be determined more by service than hardware. Then, after you've decided on the the best network and rate plan, shop for the best compatible handset for your needs. That's how I ended up with Sprint/HTC 6800.

The AT&T/iPhone combo, on an ancient, slow, expensive data network, was never in the running. Don't get me wrong, I would love to have the larger screen, slick UI, and Safari browser. But GPS, tethering, exchange-push, and so many other things already mentioned here, make the WM platform + Sprint's EVDO Rev-A network (at reasonable pricing) an obvious choice. Although it does require some patience and determination to get a WM device functioning the way you want it. The average consumer (unlike us gadget freaks that hang out in these forums), will opt for something that functions as advertised out of the box. They will tolerate the higher priced, slower network and lack of upgrade options for the instant gratification and "status" that comes with owning an iPhone. Pretty good business model... get people to pay more for less. Smart consumers will ignore the sizzle and shop for the best steak.