Survey Finds Cell-Phone Satisfaction

Here is some good news about cell-phone service. In case you haven't realized it yourself, service is actually improving, according to this year's survey by Consumer Reports. On the other hand, one of my pet peeves: The hidden costs of discount and "free" phones are now a major concern for buyers.

Cell phones, once the scourge of Consumer Reports' surveys, now receive marks of completely or very satisfied by 60% of respondents.

The Consumer Reports National Research Center surveyed 51,700 readers in 23 cities to determine customer satisfaction with service providers. Tops on the list is Verizon (VZ Quote), home of Research In Motion's(RIMM Quote) new BlackBerry Storm. Verizon received high marks in overall satisfaction and customer service and for service being available in most of the country. Alltel (soon to be acquired by Verizon) also stood out in areas where it was rated. ...