you can have an "EDGE" network coverage for voice and not have a data plan, but in order to be able to send emails you need that blackberry data plan because it uses the "RIM" network/servers. you can have 3G or EDGE for voice all day long but you wont be able to send or recieve email or browse internet until the correct data plan is on. that is why it is important for the correct data plan to be on the account....... next question