I don't find Orange coverage to be that poor. I have o2 and T-Mobile phones and cannot get o2 coverage particularly well in my basement. I prefer T-Mobile datacards but Orange are the only network to offer services such as Single Number (a second SIM for car or 2nd handset) use that works with data. They also offer Enhanced Line 2 which works with the BlackBerry OS. Two separate numbers for calls and texts on the one handset. Orange and Vodafone are partnering to share their 3g networks.

I've got a SIM free Bold on order from Misco but if Orange get them first, I'll buy mine from there. I'm only half way through a 24 month contract so will have to pay near full price for it, but would have to anyway. It's an expense so I am not bothered. I just want the thing!