When I decided I needed a cell phone a couple years ago, I decided on T-Mobile based on their pricing structure. Unfortunately, knowing nothing about cell phone service problems, I expected that areas that are shaded on a company's map as having service actually provide service... I get less than one bar in my house - that's if I'm standing in one of two precise locations and leaning towards the window. Ditto for my office, parts of I-97, any back roads or slightly rural areas, etc... My calls are frequently dropped when I talk while walking short distances outside (where I often have to go to use my phone). On the other hand, as one reviewer pointed out, I rarely exceed my plan's minutes!

Usually get dropped calls mid-conversation. Often get messages, but without ever having the phone ring beforehand.

I have had AT&T service since the mid 90's, and the reception has gotten increasingly worse recently. I have a phone that gets much better reception than other phones on the AT&T service in the same place, but I still have seen a decline in reception.