Definite answers to many queries i see here:
1. Samsung Max works fine on both Reliance and Tata. This was the first open market launch (phone not locked to operator or subsidised by operators as most are), so Samsung went with limited numbers. Telemart the distributors are also getting into the scene step by step. Hence Max is now available only in Delhi and Mumbai. But as we speak today the first shipment is sold out. Reliance has no stocks (some might be left at stores).
2. The current handset has full data capabilities ONLY with Reliance. Tata Zone and Tata data services DO NOT WORK. Check the Samsung Website for Samsung Max. The good news is the next set of Max handsets that are being imported will support data and VAS (R-World and Tata Zone) on both networks and will slowly reach out to all cities starting late December 2007. There is no expansion plan set out so people quoting dates for it to reach specific cities are misleading you.
3. The best news is Samsung is comitted to grow the CDMA open market with a wide range of handsets that will work across both Tata and Reliance and might even be sold online through the Samsung CDMA website.
Once I get hold of some more insider scoop will let you know
