When Sprint turns off the Clearwire WiMax network on Nov 6, that is the end of it. Nobody else is using WiMax that I'm aware of, LTE won the 4G technology war. I'm using the WiMax network for Internet service, so I'm interested in the problem. My service provider will be selling me a new 4G LTE modem and I'm waiting to see how soon I can get it. Regarding using the old phone for telco service, it would probably keep working but only on the 3G network. At least that is my guess. My opinion is that Sprint 3G coverage isn't as good as 4G LTE. You could probably use it at home or anywhere else you can get WiFi service. Worst case, install Google Voice or Skype, turn off the mobile network, and use it strictly via the WiFi. Personally, I can find numerous things to use a smart phone for even if it doesn't have phone service. All that CPU power can be very useful. If you don't want it, I'll take it. :-) Doug Reed. N St Paul.