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I think that Merger will have a whole lot of problems.
First of all Nextell uses a TDMA Iden network, and Sprint is using ev-do CDMA. The 2 technologies are not compatible. I forsee a forced migration for all the nextell customer to switch to sprint phones and sprint plans. I can see alot of people wanting to switch to another carrier if that happens.
The mega company thing does provide alot of benifits though. It means they have more buying power and sway with manufacturers to get better phone and a better selection, and can some customisable features for them that other carriers might not use. Also it means that they could potentially bring down the cost of rate plans and fees (although this will probably never happen).
Logically there was a second merger to come when the att/cingular merger happened. Without that merger there would be a great imbalance between the major national companies. So now the big players will be Cingular, Sprint, T-Mobile, and Verizon. 4 choices is still a good number of choices. Of course there are a few other smaller fish, and regional, and local companies to pick from as well.
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