Apple Thoughts: Current iPhone CDMA Limitations (on Verizon)

"While many have been waiting a long time for the Verizon iPhone, the same CDMA network that gives Verizon its terrific coverage and reliability brings with it a host of other problems, including the famous lack of simultaneous voice and data and limited international roaming, but also some lesser known issues such as split SMS messages and greatly reduced conference calling options."

The limitations of Verizon's CDMA-based network have been thoroughly discussed in the tech press since their iPhone announcement, with no simultaneous (3G) voice and data, minimal international coverage, split SMS after 160 characters, and limited conference calling options (three users max). That being said, if you don't need or use these features, Verizon still offers arguably superior 3G coverage. Personally I'm tempted just because Verizon's voice coverage is far better where I live, and I generally single-task on my iPhone. My AT&T coverage flip-flops between 3G and EDGE in different parts of the house. As for foreign travel, it's easy enough to buy an inexpensive unlocked phone, and use pay-as-you-go phone service elsewhere.