For $199, only to turn around and resell it on ebay for $500-$600!
Then I can have money for when HTC releases a phone that I reallly want, and works on AT&T.
It is only $199 with a 2 year commitment and a mandatory data package.
Good luck with that
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
I'm an evil genius
denco7 said:
It is only $199 with a 2 year commitment and a mandatory data package.
Good luck with that
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, be warned: you end up paying a LOT for the monthly charges. (This is why, BTW, I've got my iPhone 3G without a full contract - that is, with one that allows for using any kind of T-Mo's subscription - even a BlackBerry one [which I use for my BB 8800].)
Though it could turn out to be a good investment...
I paid £99 for my iphone and kept it (still have it) and then bought a touch pro outright for £300 so if i did sell my iphone i would have equaled out, and im using the iphone sim in the touch pro to recieve my unlimited net etc.
kingsizeriz said:
Though it could turn out to be a good investment...
I paid £99 for my iphone and kept it (still have it) and then bought a touch pro outright for £300 so if i did sell my iphone i would have equaled out, and im using the iphone sim in the touch pro to recieve my unlimited net etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, if you can make use of the 200/400/whatever minutes included in the price of the package, then, it's a good deal. People (like me: I only speak 5-6 minutes a month) not needing thtat much free speech time, however, end up paying a lot of $$$ for something that they don't need.
In the U S , very few people ( generalized )spend $500 dollars on an unlocked phone and then shop around for a carrier. The carriers subsidize the phones and then lock you into a conrtract long enough to get the full price of the phone back and then some. By the time your contract is up, new models are out and your phone is all but worthless.
A phone, like a PC is not an investment, at least here in the US it is a disposible commodity.
Just FYI for everybody, I have a unlimited data plan already, for my Kaiser.
AT&T pretty much made me get it, because they put some $170 charge on my phone bill, claiming that I downloaded AT&T Navigator.. 17MB worth of it.
I didn't have the program installed, nor did I ever download it. I would know if I did, plus I would just connect via activesync if I really wanted it, and transfer over the .cab.
Anyway, they had proof I did, I had proof I didn't, so in place of the $170 charge, they said I can keep a data connection for 3 months and I will pay $90 instead of $170.
Also I've got 3 people on craigslist that are willing to pay $550 cash for it. Woo.
In a nutshell, all I paid was $217 (price plus tax) and a $25 data package, which replaces my current one of $30. So actually, I'm saving $5/month.
stuff said:
In a nutshell, all I paid was $217 (price plus tax) and a $25 data package, which replaces my current one of $30. So actually, I'm saving $5/month.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And a 2 year contract that you cannot cancel, just because you sold the phone ?
stuff said:
For $199, only to turn around and resell it on ebay for $500-$600!
Then I can have money for when HTC releases a phone that I reallly want, and works on AT&T.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hmm that is a good idea. so you get a sim card with data plan plus an extra $400 so i could just keep the phone i have now and get a years free.
how much is the iphone plan anyway?
stuff said:
For $199, only to turn around and resell it on ebay for $500-$600!
Then I can have money for when HTC releases a phone that I reallly want, and works on AT&T.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just did the same thing with an 8gig iPhone here in canada. Fido (canadian carrier) was selling it for $199 with a 3 year agreement. I had $200 in Fido Dollars (reward program) which I used towards the purchase, so it cost me nothing (except for the taxes). Sold it the same day (unopened box) for $510.
Easiest $500 I ever made!
I've been with Fido for the past 6-7 years, so I'm not planning on jumping ship anytime, so I didn't worry about the agreement I signed. And they didn't force me to get a data plan. I kept my existing plan.
outsider787 said:
I just did the same thing with an 8gig iPhone here in canada. Fido (canadian carrier) was selling it for $199 with a 3 year agreement. I had $200 in Fido Dollars (reward program) which I used towards the purchase, so it cost me nothing (except for the taxes). Sold it the same day (unopened box) for $510.
Easiest $500 I ever made!
I've been with Fido for the past 6-7 years, so I'm not planning on jumping ship anytime, so I didn't worry about the agreement I signed. And they didn't force me to get a data plan. I kept my existing plan.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Okay , now you have a new three year plan, $ 60/mo for 3 years = $ 2160, and no phone to go with it. Now you can't get another subsidized phone with a plan, because you already have the iPhone, which means you are going to have to buy an unsubsidized one , Diamond II = $ 575.00 + 2160 = $2735 over the next three years.
Now I must be dense, stupid, how are you making out ?
denco7 said:
Okay , now you have a new three year plan, $ 60/mo for 3 years = $ 2160, and no phone to go with it. Now you can't get another subsidized phone with a plan, because you already have the iPhone, which means you are going to have to buy an unsubsidized one , Diamond II = $ 575.00 + 2160 = $2735 over the next three years.
Now I must be dense, stupid, how are you making out ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, your math is wrong - he sold the iPhone for $510, so if he buys a Diamond II for $575 he has only put out $65 - and he needs and will use the call/data/text plan for one phone or another, so he's paying out the $60/mo regardless, but now will be using the phone he really wants, and essentially obtaining it for only $65.
I think he is smart. I have an iPhone 3G 16GB myself right now, but as soon as Touch Pro 2 for U.S. is available, I will do a similar gambit. And I only get locked in for 22 months with AT&T.
cushcalc said:
Well, your math is wrong - he sold the iPhone for $510, so if he buys a Diamond II for $575 he has only put out $65 - and he needs and will use the call/data/text plan for one phone or another, so he's paying out the $60/mo regardless, but now will be using the phone he really wants, and essentially obtaining it for only $65.
I think he is smart. I have an iPhone 3G 16GB myself right now, but as soon as Touch Pro 2 for U.S. is available, I will do a similar gambit. And I only get locked in for 22 months with AT&T.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It was a generalized reply, seeing as the op and others reading this will not have their " fido bucks " to spend. So let's say that without the fido bucks, you and I are into a new Diamond for $ 265 ( your math ). You don't think that if you went out and just bought a subsidzed Diamond, with a 3 year plan it would cost you $ 265 ? And without the Ebay fees and general hassle of selling and shipping the new iPhone, along with, as far as AT$T is concerned, violating their TOS by signing a new contract for one phone but actually using the sim in another phone. Grounds for termination of service if you get caught.
More power too you all , I am not criticizing , I am just pointing out that I do not get it ?
Can't people by an Iphone from AT&T without a contract for $500?
denco7 said:
It was a generalized reply, seeing as the op and others reading this will not have their " fido bucks " to spend. So let's say that without the fido bucks, you and I are into a new Diamond for $ 265 ( your math ). You don't think that if you went out and just bought a subsidzed Diamond, with a 3 year plan it would cost you $ 265 ? And without the Ebay fees and general hassle of selling and shipping the new iPhone, along with, as far as AT$T is concerned, violating their TOS by signing a new contract for one phone but actually using the sim in another phone. Grounds for termination of service if you get caught.
More power too you all , I am not criticizing , I am just pointing out that I do not get it ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think AT&T cares as long as they keep getting their phone and data and text fees each month. I have swapped phones at AT&T corporate stores, I have bought and sold subsidized phones (I like to play with new gadgets, and I'm still looking for the "ultimate perfect phone for me") - AT&T never gives me any trouble as long as I keep using my family plan (5phones), data plan, and family text plan.
I've just sold off a Tilt and a Fuze in the last week, and previously bought and sold 8125, 8525, another Tilt, an i-mate 8502, an HP 914C, a couple StarTreks . . . Sometimes I make a little, sometimes I lose a little - but it's kind of my hobby, and I keep using the call/text/data plan regardless.
That's just me - YMMV.
cushcalc said:
I don't think AT&T cares as long as they keep getting their phone and data and text fees each month. I have swapped phones at AT&T corporate stores, I have bought and sold subsidized phones (I like to play with new gadgets, and I'm still looking for the "ultimate perfect phone for me") - AT&T never gives me any trouble as long as I keep using my family plan (5phones), data plan, and family text plan.
I've just sold off a Tilt and a Fuze in the last week, and previously bought and sold 8125, 8525, another Tilt, an i-mate 8502, an HP 914C, a couple StarTreks . . . Sometimes I make a little, sometimes I lose a little - but it's kind of my hobby, and I keep using the call/text/data plan regardless.
That's just me - YMMV.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My wife has a full data plan for her AT$T iphone, which was mandatory with the iPhone from AT$T. My Tilt data plan ( on paper ) is the same but costs $ 10 dollars more. I don't know what the difference is, but I know they are not interchangable. ( I asked ). And they have been pretty strict about eligibility for a subsidized phone with me, ( also a family plan 4 phones )
My wife's contract has been up since Dec, but she is sticking with her iPhone, my Tilt contract is up next month, I asked them if I could use her eligibility for a new phone for my account and just extend my account for another two years and they said no. Against TOS to change phones within contracts. Go figure. If there is a way to make money from buying and selling phones, AT$T will find it before we do, I am sure.
denco7 said:
Okay , now you have a new three year plan, $ 60/mo for 3 years = $ 2160, and no phone to go with it. Now you can't get another subsidized phone with a plan, because you already have the iPhone, which means you are going to have to buy an unsubsidized one , Diamond II = $ 575.00 + 2160 = $2735 over the next three years.
Now I must be dense, stupid, how are you making out ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I only did it because I had the reward program bucks, so it was an easy $500.
As for the plan, I still need a plan (for whatever phone I am using), and I am currently perfectly happy with my Kaiser.
I can buy another subsidized phone after 21 months in the agreement, so I can buy another phone (discounted) if I renew my agreement at that point.
outsider787 said:
I only did it because I had the reward program bucks, so it was an easy $500.
As for the plan, I still need a plan (for whatever phone I am using), and I am currently perfectly happy with my Kaiser.
I can buy another subsidized phone after 21 months in the agreement, so I can buy another phone (discounted) if I renew my agreement at that point.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can see the easy 500 bucks, but now you still have your Kaiser plan, and now a new 3 yr plan. What are you going to do with your Kaiser plan? And Dude, add it up, you are locked into that Kaiser until Nov, 2010.
My Kaiser is 17 mo. old and I am chomping at the bit for an upgrade.
denco7 said:
I can see the easy 500 bucks, but now you still have your Kaiser plan, and now a new 3 yr plan. What are you going to do with your Kaiser plan? And Dude, add it up, you are locked into that Kaiser until Nov, 2010.
My Kaiser is 17 mo. old and I am chomping at the bit for an upgrade.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No I am not locked in to a Kaiser plan. The plan can be used with ANY GSM phone... It's just a plan that I would be paying for regardless of the device.
I can use the $500 to subsidize whatever phone I want! The best phone I could get from Fido was the iPhone... so essentially I traded that for my choice of phones.
outsider787 said:
No I am not locked in to a Kaiser plan. The plan can be used with ANY GSM phone... It's just a plan that I would be paying for regardless of the device.
I can use the $500 to subsidize whatever phone I want! The best phone I could get from Fido was the iPhone... so essentially I traded that for my choice of phones.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly.
-src
Related
Sorry to start another thread, but I just wanted to give everyone a heads up that Let's Talk now has The Fuze. I have been waiting to see if it would pop up there or on Amazon first. I bought it through the Walmart website. You can get the phone for either $99 or free. The free option requires you to start out with a voice plan of at least $59.99. The $99 option let's you choose a voice plan of $39.99. Although, both options make you get a data plan, but I was going to get one anyway. My total price (tax and all) was 195.53 before the $50 mail-in rebate. I'm very happy, and can finally stop wasting time at work.
I was going to upgrade through them, but they told me something completely laughable. You can upgrade a family plan, but EVERY LINE ON YOUR PLAN BEGINS A NEW 2 YEAR CONTRACT!!!
I was like, what're you ****ing kidding me? That'd be five 2 year contracts to get a cheaper upgrade, thanks but no thanks.
I tried this with my 4-line family plan. The configurator allowed me to get two of them free and two lesser phones free of charge. None of my lines are currently under contract... I am finding it hard to see the drawbacks to this.
Black93300ZX said:
I was going to upgrade through them, but they told me something completely laughable. You can upgrade a family plan, but EVERY LINE ON YOUR PLAN BEGINS A NEW 2 YEAR CONTRACT!!!
I was like, what're you ****ing kidding me? That'd be five 2 year contracts to get a cheaper upgrade, thanks but no thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Was this a representative that told you that or on the internet because it sounds completely inane :O?
If you talked with somebody, i'd try to give it another go.
Interesting, if there is a way to do this without extending all the contracts on the line I'll take mine back to the AT&T store. You can do this in store right?
The website states that whether you upgrade one line or all lines there will be a new 2yr contract for all lines in a family plan.
blkjack74 said:
Sorry to start another thread, but I just wanted to give everyone a heads up that Let's Talk now has The Fuze. I have been waiting to see if it would pop up there or on Amazon first. I bought it through the Walmart website. You can get the phone for either $99 or free. The free option requires you to start out with a voice plan of at least $59.99. The $99 option let's you choose a voice plan of $39.99. Although, both options make you get a data plan, but I was going to get one anyway. My total price (tax and all) was 195.53 before the $50 mail-in rebate. I'm very happy, and can finally stop wasting time at work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The upgrade price is $249.99. Be careful when dealing with LetsTalk. They have different terms and conditions in addition to AT&T's that are more strict. You MUST have a data plan to get this deal, and MUST have the data plan active for at least 6 months, or they will charge your credit/debit card at least $250.00.
I maybe retarded but I can't find how to upgrade 1 line on a family plan. It never gives me the option of choosing one line, just selecting a plan. If I select the family plan that I have it asks me to add at least 2 phones to complete the order.
Any ideas on upgrading just one line on an existing plan? Thanks.
Hmm...I just went through the LetsTalk procedure and it's telling me that, with an upgrade, you can get two Fuzes completely free? If this is true, I'm running immediately back to the store and returning this $350 dollar one.
htcfan78 said:
The upgrade price is $249.99. Be careful when dealing with LetsTalk. They have different terms and conditions in addition to AT&T's that are more strict. You MUST have a data plan to get this deal, and MUST have the data plan active for at least 6 months, or they will charge your credit/debit card at least $250.00.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the heads up. Hopefully I won't have any issues, as I was already planning on getting a data plan. If anything "weird" happens, I'll be sure to let everyone know.
Just a head's up. I have been with AT&T for years. Simply put, purchasing ANYTHING from letstalk.com is like walking into a mexican brothel without a condom. I have read many situation regarding these people, they are 100% sales driven. For those not wanting to believe me, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE read ALL the fine print. You might save a little now but 80% of the time you will spend much more later.
This has been a public service announcement from KD8DNS
I too have been with ATT for many years, and read of many angry stories related to orders from them. I have ordered from them twice in the past and have not had any trouble either time, BUT... I agree with KD8DNS, there is an expansive amount of fine print with many rules that govern the purchase. Read this twice even three times, so that you won't be one of the many complaining in 6 months that Letstalk charged you $250 per line because you violated terms.
yea...
This looks too good to be true...
I am moving from T-Mobile and need my number ported...
I am planning on getting a hefty voice and data plan anyway, so that shouldn't be any issue...I need the data plan for work and I pay a arm and leg to T-Mobile now so over $100 is par for the course.
I think I am going to wait to see if this comes through for someone else...signing up for new service on ATT, they say that I am only going to have to pay $99, and get a $99 rebate after 6 mos of service...that is not a big deal, but getting the phone for free really seems too good to be true!
BTW, I have been looking to jump from T-Mobile for quite some time now as I need a WM phone on a 3G network and Sprint/Verizon service leaves something to be desired in my area...
I mean, come on...$99 out of my pocket for this phone???? And I get that back with a rebate after having service for 6 mos????
That is just crazy...seems way too good to be true.
I don't get it how people have problems with Letstalk. I have ordered twice from them and had a great experience. The rule is
You can NOT downgrade your plan and you can not be late on your bill. If you do that for 6 months, it is a great deal.
Simply put: If you take the LetsTalk deal, you cannot alter your account in any way for 6 mos. If you move and have to change your number that may cause your rebate to be rejected even worse they may charge you the $250 I mentioned earlier. If you are stable and the features you select are fine for 6 mo. it may be worth it. It is not really to good to be true. They make the bulk of their money in commissions paid by AT&T. However, the commissions are tied to you living up to your commitment to them/AT&T. I have ordered from them before without issue, but I admit that i am a rare breed. If you decide to take the plunge, just know what you are getting into.
aadadams said:
Simply put: If you take the LetsTalk deal, you cannot alter your account in any way for 6 mos. If you move and have to change your number that may cause your rebate to be rejected even worse they may charge you the $250 I mentioned earlier. If you are stable and the features you select are fine for 6 mo. it may be worth it. It is not really to good to be true. They make the bulk of their money in commissions paid by AT&T. However, the commissions are tied to you living up to your commitment to them/AT&T. I have ordered from them before without issue, but I admit that i am a rare breed. If you decide to take the plunge, just know what you are getting into.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea, that fits me to a tee...
I have done the research and know what I want...I am not going to alter my account at all. I am not going to move at all.
They don't have them in stock though...backordered...D'OH!
It's also only good for new contracts or porting from another carrier. It's $250 for existing ATT customers with a 2 year contract extension.
I already bought my fuze through the At&t store. Can I return it to take advantage of this freebie deal Let's Talk has? What it he penalty for returning it?
I was an out of contract, upgrade available customer. So I ended up getting my phone for 260.
Thresher said:
I already bought my fuze through the At&t store. Can I return it to take advantage of this freebie deal Let's Talk has? What it he penalty for returning it?
I was an out of contract, upgrade available customer. So I ended up getting my phone for 260.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I took mine back and all that I had to pay was $20.00 a restocking fee. The rest of the fees were all reimbursed. I was told by the 800# that it is up to each store whether they charge the $20.00 dollar restocking fee. The store I went to did.
I bought our family plan almost 2 years ago from Letstalk.com and it was a great experience. I have not changed out plan at all other than changing phones and data/text plans. But the base talk plan has stayed the same.
Jeff
I was actually considering buying from letstalk.com. I have my fuze that I bought yesterday all packed up like it's new and I'm returning it first thing. They also said that if you're returning and it has no problems, they'll take $20. If it has a problem, they'll waive that fee for you. But what's up with this part in LetsTalk's Terms and Conditions? :S
If you extend your contract length on a family plan, all lines will be extended.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Anyone see a way to get a Thunderbolt when I have 9 months to go on my current contract? I realize I could pay full price but not looking to do so. Thanks for any suggestions. My current phone is an amoled incredible.
Add a line? $10. a month.
jdk2 said:
Add a line? $10. a month.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
if you added a line and got the contract pricing wouldn't you also have to sign up for a data plan, which then cannot be removed without breaking the contract and incurring ETFs. then it'd be $10 + $29.99/month......seems buying retail would be better/equivalent to that.
ebay is always an option, but since it's so new it would be quite difficult to get anything much less than retail cost.
i don't know much about it but i've seen mention of early upgrade fees on verizon, maybe you could talk to verizon employees and see if you have any options there. i haven't had much luck with them but people have posted about experiences with verizon people where they are really accommodating and friendly.
sitrucz said:
Anyone see a way to get a Thunderbolt when I have 9 months to go on my current contract? I realize I could pay full price but not looking to do so. Thanks for any suggestions. My current phone is an amoled incredible.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Back when I got my Droid 1, I was only 12 months into my 2 year contract. VZW let me do an early upgrade but did charge me a $20.00 fee. I recomend you calling *611 from your phone.
good luck !!!
Verizon did the same with me for my tbolt. I was 13 months into contract, they let me upgrade for 2 year contract price + 25.00$
Sent from my ADR6400L using XDA App
Buy retail or try to get an early upgrade...
it is actually really annoying. everyone always wants the latest phones and cannot wait to get them... and then they scramble to find the best way to get them when they still have "x" months left in their contract (x usually being greater than 6, closer to 12).
at that point, why not just get a 1 year contract to begin with. pay the extra $70 for your device up front but then have the freedom and flexibility at 10 months to do as you choose (and be able to get a new device without trying to "work the system" and weasel your way out of a contract or find some fishy way to add another line). you will end up spending more if you do not get a 1 yr contract.
I am a firm believer of this!
*EDIT*: and Verizon does not always allow early upgrades for 2 yr contracts, so you cannot rely on that
bmcclure937 said:
Buy retail or try to get an early upgrade...
it is actually really annoying. everyone always wants the latest phones and cannot wait to get them... and then they scramble to find the best way to get them when they still have "x" months left in their contract (x usually being greater than 6, closer to 12).
at that point, why not just get a 1 year contract to begin with. pay the extra $70 for your device up front but then have the freedom and flexibility at 10 months to do as you choose (and be able to get a new device without trying to "work the system" and weasel your way out of a contract or find some fishy way to add another line). you will end up spending more if you do not get a 1 yr contract.
I am a firm believer of this!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That, I'm never getting another phone at a two-year contract ever again unless the whole market system changes with it, which i dont see happening.
Regardless, if you are stuck in a contract, do the add a line thing, as with that, you can get the new phone on a new line, then switch it over to a crappy cheap phone that doesn't need a data plan, and disable everything on it, so you're only paying the $10 a month for an extra line.
Russ36363 said:
Regardless, if you are stuck in a contract, do the add a line thing, as with that, you can get the new phone on a new line, then switch it over to a crappy cheap phone that doesn't need a data plan, and disable everything on it, so you're only paying the $10 a month for an extra line.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
maybe i'm not well-versed on verizon's contract terms. are you all sure that the contract doesn't forbid cancelling the data plan? i was basing my knowledge on an experience with at&t more than two years ago, haha. at that time i did the secondary line upgrade to get a new blackberry and at&t's terms were that in order to get an upgrade price it is required to sign up for a data package. the loophole there for me was that the data plan could be cancelled after two months at no cost at all. later on a friend who tried to do the same thing as me could not because at&t changed their policy and would not allow people to remove data plans after two months without an ETF.
is verizon's policy better and either doesn't require a data plan upon upgrade or allows you to remove it immediately after upgrading? (note: i tried to look up verizon's policy on this by going to the site and pretending to be a new customer but it started to ask for payment and personal info before showing me the terms and conditions. it did require me to sign up for a data plan when purchasing a smartphone though) i'm curious to know what the fine details are.
bkiminfinity said:
if you added a line and got the contract pricing wouldn't you also have to sign up for a data plan, which then cannot be removed without breaking the contract and incurring ETFs. then it'd be $10 + $29.99/month......seems buying retail would be better/equivalent to that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
make sure you have an older dumbphone to transfer your existing line to. then you can drop data to your heart's content.
i have done this twice now, once for x and once for thunderbolt. $10/mo each.
bkiminfinity said:
maybe i'm not well-versed on verizon's contract terms. are you all sure that the contract doesn't forbid cancelling the data plan? i was basing my knowledge on an experience with at&t more than two years ago, haha. at that time i did the secondary line upgrade to get a new blackberry and at&t's terms were that in order to get an upgrade price it is required to sign up for a data package. the loophole there for me was that the data plan could be cancelled after two months at no cost at all. later on a friend who tried to do the same thing as me could not because at&t changed their policy and would not allow people to remove data plans after two months without an ETF.
is verizon's policy better and either doesn't require a data plan upon upgrade or allows you to remove it immediately after upgrading? (note: i tried to look up verizon's policy on this by going to the site and pretending to be a new customer but it started to ask for payment and personal info before showing me the terms and conditions. it did require me to sign up for a data plan when purchasing a smartphone though) i'm curious to know what the fine details are.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
From the experiences I've had and others who've posted about it, the only restriction AFAIK from verizon is that you need a data plan on the line when you activate the phone on that line, so you'd need to add a data plan on the line when a smartphone is activated for it. However, if the phone isn't a smartphone, i've been able to add and remove the data to the line as needed (I've had an old enV phone where theres been a few times where I've needed the data, so I've just turned on the data plan for the two weeks or so, and never gotten charged outside of that, or fees)
Bodero said:
make sure you have an older dumbphone to transfer your existing line to. then you can drop data to your heart's content.
i have done this twice now, once for x and once for thunderbolt. $10/mo each.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i have an old blackberry pearl flip, does that count? seeing that it is a blackberry i would think it doesn't......
but a follow-up question i have is that is it worth it paying the extra $10/month? price speculation for tbolt: $319 for 1-year contract, add the $10/month for a year = $120 for a total of $439. retail is $599 so you save $160.....as opposed to paying $319 alone and saving $280. i guess for someone with an upgrade available the method of adding a line and then moving the new phone saves you an upgrade and costs $120 more to get the tbolt. so you are paying an extra $120 above the cost of the phone itself to save your upgrade.
makes more sense for someone with no upgrade option then.
But i didn't think it could be just 10 dollars a month. The phones are required to have their own 29.99 data plan
Sent from my ADR6400L using XDA App
Thanks all I'm thinking *611 and see if I'm eligible for that early upgrade and will do the 1 year contract.
Bodero said:
make sure you have an older dumbphone to transfer your existing line to. then you can drop data to your heart's content.
i have done this twice now, once for x and once for thunderbolt. $10/mo each.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Or call Verizon and tell them you no longer want a phone on that line and they'll put a dummy ESN on it. That's what I did the last time I pulled the add a line and drop it for a discount.
It turns out I'm eligible for the early upgrade on 5/10 of this year which puts me on my incredible for 1 year. My full upgrade is up on 1/10/12. So I guess I'll see what's out there in May. Thanks again.
just keep calling *611 and get someone that is nice. after 4 calls to CS i begged the lady to ask her supervisor to advance my upgrade (from Dec.). I paid the $20.00 fee. good luck.
I found an official document on verizon's FAQs under "Worry Free Guarantee". Easier to get to through google. When I have the link I can post it.
Basically it states that if you are in a two year plan already you will be able to take advantage of one more annual upgrade at discount price or if you so choose wait until your 20th month and get your "New Every Two" credit.
I had to print this sheet and make sure the full url was across the top in order to show it to a verizon rep. He then put a remark under my account stating that I was indeed elgible for an early upgrade. The problem is just with the changes verizon is now implementing.
Sent from my DROID2 GLOBAL using XDA App
I bought my thunderbolt on craigslist for $540. Was a little shady as the guy didn't have the box, but had all the accessories Verizon employee maybe? Just can't imagine how a day old phone is missing the box. Anyway I activated the phone with no issue.
When you guys are paying the $20 or whatever to get the early upgrade, so they just reset your account so that Wirefly/Amazon/etc see you as upgrade eligible, or do you then have to buy the phone from VZW? I'd like to upgrade 4 months early (and have multiple lines to upgrade, so the "new every 2" would only take care of one phone) but I don't want to pay VZW an extra $50/phone if I can avoid it.
They are sadly apparently getting rid of the annual upgrade feature Anyway should you want to go the full retail route I got mine cheapest through VZW at 599.99 vs the 749.99 it seemed to be listed everywhere else. I don't get my annual upgrade which they are still honoring for the time being until July of this year (still can get it should I want to grab another device this summer).
The only reason I could see to upgrade earlier than your annual upgrade date is in the off chance verizon changes the way they do 4G data plans for new 4G phones at that point? Currently they are offering 4G at 3G data prices w/ unlimited data, and they can't suddenly start charging those of us who are on these unlimited plans more or force us to the tiered plan concept... so we'd be grandfathered in sorta like the unlimited data AT&T users are currently. Was the main reason for me jumping the gun and upgrading early at full retail, that and the speeds are amazing.
Hi, i am a student from Vietnam, but studying at United States right now. This is my first year at United States, so i haven't signed a contract yet because i know i will be back Vietnam for a little bit (for about ~4 months). I will be back here on September, 2011 and i think i am going to sign a 2-year contract and get a Windows Phone 7 Device because my currect monthly-contract with T-Mobile is kinda expensive i think...
i am current having the HTC HD7 T-Mobile T9292, bought on ebay. Work perfectly,i am loving it. And September seem to be far away, and HD7 is not a "failed" device, somebody would wonder why i create this thread.
But today, when i went back from the school, i suddenly dropped my HD7 to the ground quite hard and it had no cover at all ( i forgot to put the black-silicon cover for it because i was leaving in hurry in the morning). The phone was damaged physically outside, top right corner ( but still working, no problem while operating the phone) and it looks ugly. I am kinda a person who have a "eye-infinity", want to own something look sexy (that why i bought the HD7). So, when the phone is damaged and cannot be fixed, i get mad (not really, lol ) and there is one thing run across my head, "I am going to have a new phone" .
basically, i know nothing about signing a contract with a wiress-provider. If someone can give me some info that would be great. I am a Microsoft-Fan, and Windows Phone 7 is great to use. But now it get me really confuse. I don't know which phone i am going to get.
HTC HD7 is fine, since i have some special respect to HTC because they always make cool phones, but it has some issue, like "Pink-Camera", TFT-LCD only... Now, we even have a HD7S from AT&T. And again, i don't know which carrier to choose. People said AT&T is expensive, but has a better coverage than T-Mobile...blah...blah...blah. Even Android is not that bad. I am really confuse.
If someone can help me out, that would be great!
PS: I will be at St.Peterburg, FL next year, if someone are going to answer my question about coverage! Thanks!
Why not just order a replacement housing for it instead of signing up for a contract?
http://cgi.ebay.com/USA-Original-HT...ltDomain_0&hash=item3cb77dea52#ht_2185wt_1208
drkfngthdragnlrd said:
Why not just order a replacement housing for it instead of signing up for a contract?
http://cgi.ebay.com/USA-Original-HT...ltDomain_0&hash=item3cb77dea52#ht_2185wt_1208
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1
or put a cover on it ?
or buy anything off craigslist... a two year contract with the devil, for a phone you can pick up for $200 locally ?
drkfngthdragnlrd said:
Why not just order a replacement housing for it instead of signing up for a contract?
http://cgi.ebay.com/USA-Original-HT...ltDomain_0&hash=item3cb77dea52#ht_2185wt_1208
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the link. But i have another question. If i sign a new contract (to T-Mobile for example), can i use my old phone? Or i must have another one?
I want to sign a contract because i cannot handle $50 /month plan for the whole year (Unlimited Talk and text, 100mb data). I choose that plan only beacause i want the "Data", i use the EGRPS/3G more than talk and texting. My friend who have a iPhone 4 AT&T, pay $25/month, and has 2GB Data, 2year contract.
ohgood said:
+1
or put a cover on it ?
or buy anything off craigslist... a two year contract with the devil, for a phone you can pick up for $200 locally ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the silicon cover for it. It cover the damaged part pretty well. But the idea of signing a contract here is having the Data Usage ( i am a heavily 3G/EGPRS user). I don't need Unlimited talk and text but i need EGPRS so that why i need to choose the plan $50/month...
Plus, remember, most likely AT&T will be merging with T-Mobile within 12 months or so. So, being with one or the other in the long run won't matter & signing a contract with T-Mobile, you may be able to cancel your contact free of charge in a yr. In the USA, you're allowed to cancel a contract free of charge when there's a merger of this type. Also, T-Mobile is cheaper than AT&T & in my experience has better service. I've seen many AT&T users not have signer where I do with T-Mobile, granted non of this matter once the merger is complete.
First thing to mention using an existing device, AT&T & T-Mobile have different 3G frequencies so a T-Mobile device won't get 3G on AT&T. Now they both are GSM & so have SIM Cards so you can reuse your device, just get a cheap free phone with your new contract.
I look at the Windows Phone Chart today, and i don't think any current device is better than HD7, since i have already gotten used to the 4.3 inch screen, it is hard to switch to something smaller than 4 inch.
Dell Venue now is a good choice, but i actually don't like the design that much, and Dell is not really famous in Smartphone category.
ASUS also has a plan for a Windows Phone 7 Device, same as HTC ( a new ad about Windows Phone 7 HTC Device with 16mp Camera and Front Camera for video call) ... and i think they are quite sexy to compare to the HD7.
I was just checking both AT&T & T-Mobile's plans & the cheapest Talk/Text/Web I see is $60 for T-Mobile (500 Mins) & $75 for AT&T (450 Mins w/ Roll Over, $39.99 Talk/$20.00 Text/$15.00 Web). Both have Unlimited Text & 200 MB Data.
So, you have signed the contract to T-Mobile? What is your current plan? (How much per month?) and What is the cheapeast plan that T-Mobile provide?
I have Unlimited Talk/Unlimited Text on 5 lines & Unlimited Web on 1 line. Our bill is $314.05 (With Taxes/Fees/Etc.). T-Mobile does have an Unlimited Talk/Text/Web deal for $80 for a single line.
drkfngthdragnlrd said:
I have Unlimited Talk/Unlimited Text on 5 lines & Unlimited Web on 1 line. Our bill is $314.05 (With Taxes/Fees/Etc.). T-Mobile does have an Unlimited Talk/Text/Web deal for $80 for a single line.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you have any suggestion? 200MB Web is not that bad if i use EGPRS only... but 3G maybe a little bit different, since i am not always home or any cafe' to have Wifi... I may get crazy one day and use all my data in watching video on YouTube!
But i can't believe that my friend can get $25/month, and 2GB Web Data on AT&T for iPhone 4!
I highly doubt he's only paying $25 a month. I believe that to be just for Data, not including talk/text. I pay $30 a month for my Unlimited Data, the 200 MB Data is only $15. AT&T does not have an Unlimited Data plan. They have the 200 MB & 2 GB plans.
drkfngthdragnlrd said:
I highly doubt he's only paying $25 a month. I believe that to be just for Data, not including talk/text. I pay $30 a month for my Unlimited Data, the 200 MB Data is only $15. AT&T does not have an Unlimited Data plan. They have the 200 MB & 2 GB plans.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So, if you sign a contract, you can pay separately between call/texting and Web Data? That sould really cool to me...
Are you having unlimited data for your HD7?
Correct, my plan is a shared family plan of Unlimited Talk/Text for all 5 lines. My line has it's own Unlimited Data. I prefer to be safe for the extra $15 & not have to worry about data usage.
Thank you very much about the T-Mobile's Plan sir!
Look like i am going to have a contract with T-Mobile... The problem now, is waiting for some Cool Windows Phone 7 Device come out... and hopefully... t-mobile will have it
http://www.engadget.com/2013/07/16/att-next-upgrade-program/
AT&T:
http://www.att.com/shop/wireless/next.html?sf15024656=1#fbid=PD71HEOU89k
Interesting...
Also... top comment on Engadget:
OK, so I work for ATT I'll just clarify this for you guys a little. This is what we reps have been told. Basically whatever the normal price plan is for the phone you add 1/20th of the phones price to that normal plan pricing. After 12 months minimum but before 20 months you can choose to trade in your old phone and get a new one. There are no down payments for either phone so there is that, you can get an iphone 5 64GB for no money down if you have good credit XD. BUT you would then pay an extra 40 some per month to make up for it. The average installments would be $20 with smartphones usually costing about 400 or more so after 12 months you would have paid $280 or more and if you sold your old phone you could buy a new one.
POINT: This is a blatant rip off, save up your money those months and sell the phone you save money, the price you pay for this simply gives ATT a larger profit, they will then resell the old phones you turn in which by the way have to be in perfect shape or there will be an additional charge for repairs. Anyone with sense will no do this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh and how this effect the unlock policy, currently any non iphone can be unlocked after 90 days of service in good standing. On this ATT NEXT plan you cannot unlock it until after the full 20 months.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
FAQ
What is AT&T Next?
AT&T offers you another choice for smartphone and tablet pricing. AT&T Next is a new way for you to get a new device every year. You have the choice after 12 monthly payments to trade it in for a new device or choose to keep it, and after 20 months, there are no more installment payments. No down payment, activation, upgrade, or financing fees are required — only sales tax on the device is due at time of purchase.
How can I take advantage of AT&T Next?
Visit att.com or a participating AT&T Company Owned Retail location to learn more about AT&T Next and to find out if you are eligible.
Are there additional charges?
Sales tax is charged on your new phone or tablet at the time of sale. There's no down payment and no activation fee.
Is a contract required with AT&T Next?
AT&T Next requires that you sign an installment agreement to pay for the device over 20 monthly payments. If you cancel your wireless service, the remaining unpaid balance on the device is due. A Wireless Customer Service Agreement (voice and data service) is required.
How many AT&T Next installment plans may I have on my account?
There's a limit of two per account.
What devices are eligible for AT&T Next?
At this time, customers can buy a smartphone or tablet with AT&T Next.
Do I own the device? Or is this a leasing offer?
The device is yours and you’re responsible for 20 monthly payments. You’re also responsible for any loss, theft, or damage to the device — both during the installment agreement period and after. We recommend you purchase the optional Mobile Insurance to protect your investment.
How do I get a new device every year with the program?
After your twelfth (12) installment payment, but before your twentieth (20) installment payment, if your wireless account is in good standing you may trade in the device. The device must be fully functional and in good physical condition. Select a new smartphone or tablet and a new 20-month agreement will start.
When I trade in my device after 12 months and get a new one, what is the length of my new installment plan?
When you trade in your device, no further installments are billed for the original device. You will start over with a new 20-month installment plan on your new device.
Will I be able to pay off this device early?
Yes, you have the option to pay off your installment agreement, but the full outstanding balance will be due immediately.
What payments are due if I cancel AT&T Next?
The full outstanding balance on your installment agreement becomes due.
What if I don't want to trade in my device after 12 months and I want to keep it?
You have the choice to either trade your phone in or keep your phone. If you keep it, after 20 months, it’s yours and no more installment payments are required.
What if my phone is damaged (e.g. cracked screen)? Can I still trade it in after 12 months?
Yes. However, we reserve the right to charge a fee to repair the device and return it to fully functional and good physical condition.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is a ripoff. Why is everyone trying to follow TMobile's BS? There's a reason why offer crap service.
I'm going to stick with my normal 2 year upgrades. AT&T has always offered me an early upgrade from 6 months-1year at the 2 year price. If that goes away and I have to put up with this BS, I'll be pissed.
mr_blanket said:
http://www.engadget.com/2013/07/16/att-next-upgrade-program/
Interesting...
Also... top comment on Engadget:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Interesting... I called this when T-mobile started this. It is almost better to pay full price for phones now... If you sell your current phone 300-450 and put the rest on a credit card you will still be saving money or just pay it up front. But the cancel at any time is pretty cool idea
But this may lead us to buy unlocked devices and not deal with locked bootloaders....
AutoUnion said:
This is a ripoff. Why is everyone trying to follow TMobile's BS? There's a reason why offer crap service.
I'm going to stick with my normal 2 year upgrades. AT&T has always offered me an early upgrade from 6 months-1year at the 2 year price. If that goes away and I have to put up with this BS, I'll be pissed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am willing to bet that soon that will go away... Not sure how soon but eventually
joshuadjohnson22 said:
I am willing to bet that soon that will go away... Not sure how soon but eventually
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, this sucks. I might just start paying full price and sell the old phone. Much easier.
some quick calculations
S4 is $32/month. Would have paid $384 in a year.
If I just bought a Galaxy S4 for $629. I could sell it in a year for ~$400, so $229.
or
use your upgrade. $149 is what I spent on my Galaxy S4. Sell it for $450 in the Fall, pick up GNote3 on CL, etc. $500-550. Only out about ~$100-150. Sell GNote3 in the Spring for $450-500 for GS5.
AutoUnion said:
Yeah, this sucks. I might just start paying full price and sell the old phone. Much easier.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
same here, as I posted above... why not get the international unlocked version and be able to flash out of the box? Now with international phone having LTE I don't see a need to get carrier phones if it will cost us so much
joshuadjohnson22 said:
same here, as I posted above... why not get the international unlocked version and be able to flash out of the box? Now with international phone having LTE I don't see a need to get carrier phones if it will cost us so much
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wonder if this also means that those early upgrades they used to give to iPhone owners are gone to. I have iPhones on the other lines on my family plan, so if I don't have an upgrade, I could bank on using one of those
AutoUnion said:
I wonder if this also means that those early upgrades they used to give to iPhone owners are gone to. I have iPhones on the other lines on my family plan, so if I don't have an upgrade, I could bank on using one of those
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think those things will die off slowly. But I doubt it will be right away
I'm curious to see what else they talk about at their keynote.
I would really like them to do what US Cellular did. They brought back Unlimited Data, but it's ONLY valid for the 2 year contract length. After that, it's gone. If you try to break your contract, the ETF is $$$$. Let them charge $40/month for it. Still worth it over Sprint/TMobile, IMO
AutoUnion said:
I'm curious to see what else they talk about at their keynote.
I would really like them to do what US Cellular did. They brought back Unlimited Data, but it's ONLY valid for the 2 year contract length. After that, it's gone. If you try to break your contract, the ETF is $$$$. Let them charge $40/month for it. Still worth it over Sprint/TMobile, IMO
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It will be "Blah Blah Blah we want more of your money... Blah .... we will take it with force if we have to.... Blah .... what are you going to do about it... Blah Blah.... bend over and take it.... Blah I will be charging you a fee for listening to this keynote it will appear on your bill as a $10 Keynote charge... This will be added to your monthly bill to pay for future keynotes"
I think it's nice for it to be an option. Myself, I just buy out of contract if given a choice. It's nice to offer this and the traditional plan so some people who cant afford a phone outright can get one.
All the carriers new deals are all including trading in smartphones as of late. Usually you get ripped off as you can sell it yourself for more $. Selling my year and a half old iPhone 4S almost paid for my S4 in full out of contract..
20 month = same as unlocked upfront
12 month and upgrade to newer phone = 60% of cost one year lease... what a ripoff
Well it is AT&T
AT&T users better read the fine print before rejoicing. You’re still paying the same high monthly contract price for your no-contract plan. AT&T is double dipping into your wallet when those contract monthly plans has a subsidized phone calculated into them but you’re paying full price for the phone.
AT&T Mobile No Contract.
$70/m unlimited talk.
$20/m unlimted text.
$30/m 3GB data plan.
$32/m Samsung S4 monthly payment Next program.
+$10/m device insurance.
——————————-
$162
Compare with T-Mobile, and the price you pay for unlimited talk, text, and true unlimited, you’re just paying for the talk unlimited portion on AT&T. Not to mention, the insurance is built into the Tmo Jump program.
T-Mobile
$50/m unlimited talk/text.
$20/m unlimited data plan.
$20/m Samsung S4 monthly payment.
$10/m Jump program (includes premium device insurance).
——————————-
$100/m
I guess Att thinks we can't do simple math.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using xda premium
This is the most telling story I've seen about it so far...
http://www.theverge.com/2013/7/16/4528404/att-next-phone-upgrade-plans-a-huge-ripoff
mr_blanket said:
This is the most telling story I've seen about it so far...
http://www.theverge.com/2013/7/16/4528404/att-next-phone-upgrade-plans-a-huge-ripoff
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
We all needs to repost this. Att needs to know we are not going for this crap.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using xda premium
nthknd said:
We all needs to repost this. Att needs to know we are not going for this crap.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Absolutely. Repost, Facebook, Tweet, Link, +1, etc. Maybe this will cause a Xbox One-like backlash.
What I hate the most is that the majority of the people on this forum are stuck with AT&T until 2015 :crying:
You guys do realize this is an OPTION right? They are not forcing you to take this deal. Verizon also has a deal starting like this one as well. At least att is not forcing those with unlimited data to lose it when they want an upgrade like big red does. Att has always given OPTIONS unlike other carriers who force things down your throat. Remember that when you start typing your rant about how att sucks.
Also when was anything perfect at launch? I'm sure as time goes on and voices are heard, this plan will get made to make more sense.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using xda app-developers app
While it is an option, for now at least, so many people will fall for this scheme. People like my iPhone loving mother who is persuaded by "as seen on TV" adds will probably fall for this no matter what I say. Or teenage girls who beg their parents for the latest and greatest.
All they have to say is "NEW DEVICE EVERY YEAR". That's it. People will be overjoyed and they will make billions. Only our small subset of users will actually do the math.
Yeah att is simply bartering...if your selling something at a garage sale you always start with a high price and slowly lower until you reach an agrrement...att wants to make as much money as possible so they will start high and hopefully lower to find a price they still make profit and that people will go for...and as stated this plan is only a choice, we arent being forced to use the next plan
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using Tapatalk 2
I have a $285 etf right now
Say I early upgrade to a s3 mini at $12/mo ($250 full price) with the next promo. I can just pay off the $250 and leave with no penalty? Cheaper than paying my etf and I can sell those phones as new because I wouldn't keep them.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
I am on the Sprint Network and will stay with them for a variety of reasons. I have always had a contract with them and upgraded whenever that opportunity presented itself. I am no longer on a contract and I'm considering a few options. The Note 3 (probably won't go that way due to problems on voice calls), The LG G2 or the Nexus 5. Advantage of the Nexus 5 is that it is off contract but if I am staying with Sprint anyway what advantage is there to being off contract? Sprint won't discount my monthly bill as far as I know so the off contract advantage has me a bit puzzled from the purely dollars and cents point of view. I'd be happy to hear views from others as to why this seems like a good idea. I'm leaning toward the LG G2 which will likely have a better camera and battery than the Nexus 5 and it's only $99 at Sprint with the 2 year contract. I'd go for the Nexus 5 at 399 for the 32GB model if it meant something off my monthly bill but I don't see Sprint giving me a discount just because I bought the Nexus 5 off contract. What am I missing?
I am in the exact same situation as you, except I bought a Note 3 and just returned it. If the Sprint Nexus 5 is available through google play, you buy that, use your upgrade towards an iphone 5s and sell it sealed. If the Nexus 5 winds up being only available through Sprint, then I'm not so sure what I'm going to do.
You can change your mind and leave whenever you want. And with the nexus you will be able to go to any carrier you want (except Verizon).
All in all, it gives you more options on what service provider you want. I would recommend seeing what offers the best service (data and calls) and pick that carrier or see if you can go prepaid. I know straight talk offers at&t and T-Mobile Sim cards and its like $51 a month after taxes for unlimited everything with 2.5 GB uncapped data.
Sent from my HTC6435LVW using xda app-developers app
ricecake2000 said:
You can change your mind and leave whenever you want. And with the nexus you will be able to go to any carrier you want (except Verizon).
All in all, it gives you more options on what service provider you want. I would recommend seeing what offers the best service (data and calls) and pick that carrier or see if you can go prepaid. I know straight talk offers at&t and T-Mobile Sim cards and its like $51 a month after taxes for unlimited everything with 2.5 GB uncapped data.
Sent from my HTC6435LVW using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I totally agree that there are A LOT of options. I've even thought about picking up Tmo @ $30/month, but I'm on Sero, only pay $50/month for unlimited everything, and my Sprint service has been fantastic since relocating to Orlando, FL. Oh decisions decisions
Jocelyn said:
I am in the exact same situation as you, except I bought a Note 3 and just returned it. If the Sprint Nexus 5 is available through google play, you buy that, use your upgrade towards an iphone 5s and sell it sealed. If the Nexus 5 winds up being only available through Sprint, then I'm not so sure what I'm going to do.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Boom Baby. Haha
Sent from my HTC6435LVW using xda app-developers app
Trying to weigh my options as well.
My 2 year contract expired many months ago. I can buy the 16g Nexus 5 for $150 if I sign a new 2 year agreement, I can change to the Sprint One Up plan so I can be eligible for a new phone once a year (not sure pricing details), or I can buy through the Google Playstore for $350/$400. I have so many family members tied to the plan I am on I probably wouldn't switch carriers.
So if I bought through Google and in a year's time I wanted to switch phones I guess I could sell the Nexus 5 then use my upgrade to buy whatever phone I wanted. If I buy through Sprint, the upfront cost is cheaper, but I will have to wait a couple years if I want to switch phones.
Decisions, what do ya'll think?
For someone off-contract but that wants to stick with their post-paid account, the only advantage is flexibility. If coverage or financial conditions changed, you have the choice to be able to switch providers with no termination fees.
The only real exception to that would be the newer T-Mobile post-paid accounts where they do offer plans with lower base costs per month because they split off the phone subsidy, so if you bring your own phone you pay less since you aren't using a subsidy.
If you have a high degree of confidence you will be staying with your current contract provider and that other things like your financial situation will remain stable, I would say it makes more sense to just re-up with them and choose whatever phone you want from them. As far as which one, read some reviews and then try them out in-person at your local provider's store. Everyone has slightly different things they want out of phones, so without specific criteria it would be hard to say whether a Nexus 5 would still be the best phone for you.
I agree with you, flexibility is the main advantage of staying off contract. I've had an S3 for the last couple of years and am getting the itch to switch. If the HTC One came out today I would probably get that because I love the looks and build of it and I liked my original Evo, but it's so "old" now I want something newer - LG G2, Nexus 5 or some other upcoming phone.
electricpope said:
For someone off-contract but that wants to stick with their post-paid account, the only advantage is flexibility. If coverage or financial conditions changed, you have the choice to be able to switch providers with no termination fees.
The only real exception to that would be the newer T-Mobile post-paid accounts where they do offer plans with lower base costs per month because they split off the phone subsidy, so if you bring your own phone you pay less since you aren't using a subsidy.
If you have a high degree of confidence you will be staying with your current contract provider and that other things like your financial situation will remain stable, I would say it makes more sense to just re-up with them and choose whatever phone you want from them. As far as which one, read some reviews and then try them out in-person at your local provider's store. Everyone has slightly different things they want out of phones, so without specific criteria it would be hard to say whether a Nexus 5 would still be the best phone for you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It always amazes me how people would rather be in a contract that will require them to pay between $1-2,000 more over two years, instead of buying a phone outright and upfront, and save the money. Unless someone is too broke to afford a phone upfront... Of course if you can't afford a phone upfront, you likely can't afford a $100 monthly cell phone bill either.
wvcadle said:
It always amazes me how people would rather be in a contract that will require them to pay between $1-2,000 more over two years, instead of buying a phone outright and upfront, and save the money. Unless someone is too broke to afford a phone upfront... Of course if you can't afford a phone upfront, you likely can't afford a $100 monthly cell phone bill either.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sure, but for people who only pay $50/month for essentially unlimited everything ( 1000 landline minutes, unlimited mobile minutes, texts, and data), subsidizing phones works in our favor.
We've been w/Sprint forever and have numerous phones on the account. I'm one of the ones who pays $50 for unlimited. I'm assuming I would continue to pay $50/month whether I bought a phone outright or through contract. I doubt if I bought a phone off contract my bill would be lower than $50/month.
Jocelyn said:
Sure, but for people who only pay $50/month for essentially unlimited everything ( 1000 landline minutes, unlimited mobile minutes, texts, and data), subsidizing phones works in our favor.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If your on contract, why not buy the phone through google play and just use that on Sprint til you leave for ATT/Tmo?
I'm off contract, like a year now.
SageWilliams said:
If your on contract, why not buy the phone through google play and just use that on Sprint til you leave for ATT/Tmo?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse