I just think this was a minor error on the part of Nextel service upgrades shouldn't happen in the middle of a work day. Enhanced features Direct Connect and Speakerphone Two of the most distinguishing features of the i1000plus are the Direct Connect and the speakerphone features. All Nextel phones have a button on the side to activate the Direct Connect feature. It works only within the regional network, and can be used in two ways, either private or group. The caller can initiate a Direct Connect session by pressing the Connect button on the side of the phone.
Audible tones indicate when a talker has disconnected to allow the next person to speak.
In group-talk, all phones hear all of the conversation, so watch out. As far as I know, the i1000plus is the only phone that can also act as a speakerphone. At any point the user can press a button to toggle between speakerphone or handset. The sound is strong and clear on both ends of the call. This feature came in handy when driving or when having an impromptu group call.