Related
http://www.pcworld.com/businesscenter/article/171794/sprint_redefines_unlimited_mobiletomobile.html
Sprint Redefines ‘Unlimited' Mobile-to-Mobile
In the ongoing battle to capture mobile service customers, Sprint has just thrown down the gauntlet with a potentially game-changing feature: unlimited mobile-to-mobile calling...regardless of mobile carrier.
You read that right. The concept of unlimited mobile-to-mobile calling is not new. I have unlimited mobile-to-mobile calling and unlimited night and weekend calling in addition to the minutes in my AT&T Family Talk plan. But, my mobile-to-mobile only includes calling other AT&T mobile numbers. Sprint is opening the floodgate and allowing customers to make unlimited mobile-to-mobile calls domestically even if the recipient is using AT&T, or Verizon, or T-Mobile, or any other domestic carrier.
There are a couple smaller mobile service providers, such as Virgin Mobile (which Sprint agreed to purchase earlier this year) and Boost, offering completely unlimited calling without a contract for about $50 a month. Those plans are completely unlimited regardless of whether calls are placed to mobile or landline recipients. Among the big 4 mobile carriers in the United States though, Sprint's new offering is unique.
The move is probably at least partly in response to those smaller no contract providers. Customers are typically willing to commit to a 1 or 2 year contract with a mobile carrier in order to get cutting edge mobile phone technology at subsidized prices. Subscribers can get an iPhone from AT&T for about $100 with a contract, but without a contract the device costs more like $600.
But, an increasing number of customers are willing to forego the bleeding edge equipment in favor of no-commitment pricing with virtually unlimited bells and whistles at an affordable flat rate. Sprint may be able to retain more customers and possibly even win some of the no-commitment crowd over with the unlimited mobile-to-mobile plan.
How long will it take before other carriers follow suit? Its hard to say. Alltel pioneered the idea of selecting 5 phone numbers for unlimited minutes with its My Circle plan in early 2006. T-Mobile co-opted the concept and dubbed it Fave 5. Verizon then rolled out the Friends and Family plan. Just this week word has leaked that AT&T will introduce the A-List plan later this month. That is a cycle of over three years to make the rounds, and Spring hasn't yet jumped on that bandwagon.
Sprint is the third place carrier in the United States. It is comfortably ahead of T-Mobile, but well behind both AT&T and Verizon. Sprint isn't going down without a fight though.
Sprint is running neck and neck with Verizon in the race to roll out next generation 4G broadband wireless networks. Sprint is the exclusive provider of the Palm Pre, a cutting edge platform designed to take on the iPhone. And now, Sprint is blazing new paths with mobile pricing plans that raise the bar for the industry and set it apart from its competitors.
Based on the evolutionary timeframe for carriers adopting the Alltel My Circle concept, I guess I can look forward to unlimited vendor agnostic mobile-to-mobile coming to AT&T around....2012.
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With the Arrive coming out on Sprint soon, and the Trophy coming to Verizon, allegedly on the 24th, I'm wondering if it will be possible to get an Arrive to work on Verizon? Verizon's coverage in my area is far better than Sprint's, but I don't want the bottom of the barrel WP7 device, as I've heard the Trophy called. I have used the Mogul, the Touch Pro, and now the Touch Pro 2, and really like having that slide-out keyboard.
Any idea if getting Arrive to work on Verizon, or am I doomed to deal with Trophy?
Thanks,
Rich
No idea. The only WP7 device I've heard of for Verizon is the Trophy, like you stated.
You can get the Arrive on Sprint and roam on Verizon!
I am hoping that a few more WP7 devices are announced for both carriers at CTIA (March 22-24).
Musicman247 said:
No idea. The only WP7 device I've heard of for Verizon is the Trophy, like you stated.
You can get the Arrive on Sprint and roam on Verizon!
I am hoping that a few more WP7 devices are announced for both carriers at CTIA (March 22-24).
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truth...
Sprint has agreements with Verizon, when you roam on Sprint it is through Verizon's network and there is no extra charge.
You could get on the Sprint Everything Plus Data plan for $59.99, and pay another $10 for the premium data plan, and pay $69.99 for a new HTC Arrive.
Really.... :/
I had a Sprint Mogul when I moved to GA two years ago. The reception was PATHETIC. You used to see the commercials where someone would say something then drop the call, and it was totally awkward? Well, that happened to me. I was talking to a dear friend, and said, "I love you, Patty", and the call dropped, and I WOULD have continued, "you're one of the dearest friends I have." Of course she didn't hear the last part. I drove up and down the road desperately seeking a bar. JUST ONE BAR! I switched to Verizon and that problem went away.
So, I guess the question I have now is whether the switch to CDMA on Sprint is that recent? I wasn't aware that I could use a Sprint phone on a Verizon network, and due to my past experience I didn't check. If the answer is yes, then I believe I will be cancelling my Verizon contract when the Arrive arrives!
Hmmm... Only issue is that my VZW plan is unlimited data - TRULY unlimited - because I had it on an employee plan when I got it (and I'm not an employee of that company anymore). Is Sprint's plan TRULY unlimited?
hopmedic said:
Really.... :/
I had a Sprint Mogul when I moved to GA two years ago. The reception was PATHETIC. You used to see the commercials where someone would say something then drop the call, and it was totally awkward? Well, that happened to me. I was talking to a dear friend, and said, "I love you, Patty", and the call dropped, and I WOULD have continued, "you're one of the dearest friends I have." Of course she didn't hear the last part. I drove up and down the road desperately seeking a bar. JUST ONE BAR! I switched to Verizon and that problem went away.
So, I guess the question I have now is whether the switch to CDMA on Sprint is that recent? I wasn't aware that I could use a Sprint phone on a Verizon network, and due to my past experience I didn't check. If the answer is yes, then I believe I will be cancelling my Verizon contract when the Arrive arrives!
Hmmm... Only issue is that my VZW plan is unlimited data - TRULY unlimited - because I had it on an employee plan when I got it (and I'm not an employee of that company anymore). Is Sprint's plan TRULY unlimited?
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Sprint unlimited really is unlimited, but if you read the fine print they reserve the right to terminate you if you get retarded on it, just like any other carrier. Check with a local Sprint store about the coverage/roaming issue. Most plans on Sprint now include free roaming nationwide, and I can't think of what other major carrier in the US has CDMA other than Verizon.
Don't! sign up for a plan through the store, you need to do it online through the Everythign Plus referral, and get the plan for $10 less than doing it in store. So you can bet a HTC Arrive and pay $59.99+$10 premium data = $69.99 for 500 anytime minutes to landlines, and unlimited any mobile any time, unlimited data, pictures, text, nights starting at 7pm, etc. etc. etc.
http://www.sprint.com/everythingplus
You will need a Sprint employee email address/pin. This is where Russ McGuire comes into play, he is Vice President of Strategy for Sprint. On his blog he invites everyone for the sprint offer.
http://mcguireslaw.com/
(under about on the right hand side he has his email address and pin for everyone to use freely/Legitimately)
Addendum: their fine print says they can terminate/stop service if you use too much data outside their network etc, so the roaming thing would apply here. Wouldn't hurt to check out if their coverage has improved in your area.
Very interesting - thanks so much for the info! I guess now I'm tossing up the pros and cons of going with that or going through wirefly and getting the phone for $50 - especially since my wife will get an arrive if it is $50, but she wont' get it if we have to pay $200 (after rebate). I'm looking at it like this:
From Wirefly:
2 phones $100
monthly rate $149
From Sprint:
1 phone $200 (plus whatever phone my wife ends up getting)
monthly rate $129
So, for $20 a month over 2 years, I would save a total of $480. At a $150 savings for each Arrive buying through wirefly, that takes the comparable savings down to 180. Given that my wife won't get an Arrive if we have to pay full price now (since we'll also have to pay early term fee for our current Verizon contract), She would probably go with a free phone, and I'd save more money, but she wouldn't have WP7 (which I want her to have).
You've given me much food for thought. Right now I'd say we're probably going to end up going with Wirefly, but I'm going to sit on the decision for a couple days to decide. Thank you.
hopmedic said:
Very interesting - thanks so much for the info! I guess now I'm tossing up the pros and cons of going with that or going through wirefly and getting the phone for $50 - especially since my wife will get an arrive if it is $50, but she wont' get it if we have to pay $200 (after rebate). I'm looking at it like this:
From Wirefly:
2 phones $100
monthly rate $149
From Sprint:
1 phone $200 (plus whatever phone my wife ends up getting)
monthly rate $129
So, for $20 a month over 2 years, I would save a total of $480. At a $150 savings for each Arrive buying through wirefly, that takes the comparable savings down to 180. Given that my wife won't get an Arrive if we have to pay full price now (since we'll also have to pay early term fee for our current Verizon contract), She would probably go with a free phone, and I'd save more money, but she wouldn't have WP7 (which I want her to have).
You've given me much food for thought. Right now I'd say we're probably going to end up going with Wirefly, but I'm going to sit on the decision for a couple days to decide. Thank you.
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Let me further add to your thoughts, wirefly still may not be the best option.
If you sign up with Sprint and port your current number over to them from another carrier they will give you $125 credit for each smartphone.
http://www.sprint.com/landings/portcredit/
sprint said:
Move your number to Sprint. Get $125.For a limited time only, activate a new Sprint smartphone and save.Just bring your number from another carrier to Sprint and activate a smartphone, like the Samsung Epic™ 4G, on a new line and we'll give you a $125 service credit. Not ready for a smartphone? We'll give you a $50 service credit when you port your number from another carrier and activate one of our other fabulous phones. Either way, you win.
$125 service credit per line for each smartphone
$50 service credit per line for other phones
How to get your service credit:
Find the perfect phone. Shop online now.
Transfer your eligible number to Sprint by 4/16/2011. Doing this online is easy – we'll ask you for your number when you checkout.
Within 72 hours of activating your phone and transferring your number from another carrier, register for the credit.
That's it! You can expect to see your service credit as a lump sum within the adjustment section of your invoice. The service credit will show up on the first or second invoice after you have been a Sprint customer for 60 days. It will be labeled as "Valued Customer Service Credit."
Visit this page if you have any questions about the status of your service credit and select “Where’s my credit?” Remember, the credit will not appear on your invoice until at least 60 days after activation.
Requires two-year Agreement.
This offer is available online, via Telesales and in participating Sprint Stores. Purchases from other retailers are not eligible for this credit.
Offer ends 4/16/2011. Available for consumer and individual-liable lines only. Requires port in from an active wireless line and mobile number that comes through the port process. Request for service credit must be made at www.sprint.com/switchoffer within 72 hours from the port in activation date or credit will be declined. New line must remain active with Sprint for 61 days to receive service credit. Smartphones are Blackberry, Android, Windows Mobile, Palm and Instinct Family of devices. All other phones are considered feature phones. Smartphones require activation on an Everything Plan with data with Premium Data add-on charge. Upgrades, replacements, and ports made between Sprint entities or providers associated with Sprint are excluded (i.e. Virgin Mobile USA, Boost Mobile, Common Cents Mobile and Assurance). Offers not available in all markets/retail locations. Other restrictions apply.
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Sooooo $400 for 2 Arrive's, minus $250 - $150 for 2.
Hope this further helps you.
Wow.... That's awesome.... Now I'm going to have to look and see if I can combine the everything plus with the port credit, and double check to make sure we can receive two $100 rebates if we buy two phones. Thanks!
hopmedic said:
Wow.... That's awesome.... Now I'm going to have to look and see if I can combine the everything plus with the port credit, and double check to make sure we can receive two $100 rebates if we buy two phones. Thanks!
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The port credit information was posted on the Everything Plus referral page after you logged in with the email and pin number. And the $100 refund credit is definately per phone regardless of how many you purchase.
The only thing you need to make sure of is that Sprint services your area well.
Hope I was able to help you save some money no matter what you decide, let me know what you finally end up doing. I am picking up 2 Arrives on Sunday (for wife and I).
Credit Union Discounts
For those who go/have gone through wirefly for the 50 dollar deal (which I did), since we can't sign up for the Referral Program, the next best option to still get 10% knocked off your bill is to get a discount through any affiliated credit union (of which, there are TONS). Long-term, for 1 phone, Getting the port credit and Referral discount probably works out better, but I couldn't justify spending 300 up front for the phone, waiting x number of weeks for the rebate etc..
cusaver dot com
you can always....swap esns if your willing to get your hands dirty *cough* It works great *cough*
Halabeaster, I've never put a non-standard rom on a phone, but if it's safe, I'm willing to try. For the moment, I'm on Sprint, but not sure I'm happy with the coverage... Got 3 1/2 weeks left or so to decide. I am a developer, but not very experienced. How difficult is it?
cyclical said:
Sprint unlimited really is unlimited, but if you read the fine print they reserve the right to terminate you if you get retarded on it, just like any other carrier. Check with a local Sprint store about the coverage/roaming issue. Most plans on Sprint now include free roaming nationwide, and I can't think of what other major carrier in the US has CDMA other than Verizon.
Don't! sign up for a plan through the store, you need to do it online through the Everythign Plus referral, and get the plan for $10 less than doing it in store. So you can bet a HTC Arrive and pay $59.99+$10 premium data = $69.99 for 500 anytime minutes to landlines, and unlimited any mobile any time, unlimited data, pictures, text, nights starting at 7pm, etc. etc. etc.
You will need a Sprint employee email address/pin. This is where Russ McGuire comes into play, he is Vice President of Strategy for Sprint. On his blog he invites everyone for the sprint offer.
(under about on the right hand side he has his email address and pin for everyone to use freely/Legitimately)
Addendum: their fine print says they can terminate/stop service if you use too much data outside their network etc, so the roaming thing would apply here. Wouldn't hurt to check out if their coverage has improved in your area.
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Question, can you jump on this if you're an existing customer?
I just got my HTC Arrive on the Verizon Wireless network via Page Plus Cellular thanks to this post:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=13205205&postcount=9
I replaced my well used Touch Pro 2 with an Arrive because I was waiting for Windows Phone 7 and Netflix capabilty. I'm not a heavy phone data user because I have Wi-Fi everywhere I go.
So far I was able to get the talk and text working for my unlimited plan but haven't hammered out the rest of the data settings. Might have to wait for a Verizon Trophy to come out so that I can try to mirror the settings. This method is technically on Verizon so 95% of the service is the same at a much better price. I need mainly lots and lots of Talk/Text with NO data plan fees.
I actually bought my 2 phones from Amazon Wireless. Both were upgrades for non-primary lines on a family plan (Everything Data 3000) and AW had the best deal on the devices I could find anywhere, $150. The deal got even better now though, $99 for upgraders and free for new users.
dtrush said:
I just got my HTC Arrive on the Verizon Wireless network via Page Plus Cellular thanks to this post:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=13205205&postcount=9
I replaced my well used Touch Pro 2 with an Arrive because I was waiting for Windows Phone 7 and Netflix capabilty. I'm not a heavy phone data user because I have Wi-Fi everywhere I go.
So far I was able to get the talk and text working for my unlimited plan but haven't hammered out the rest of the data settings. Might have to wait for a Verizon Trophy to come out so that I can try to mirror the settings. This method is technically on Verizon so 95% of the service is the same at a much better price. I need mainly lots and lots of Talk/Text with NO data plan fees.
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What does or does not work? Do apps go to your bill?
No one else has made progress with the Arrive on Verizon. I was looking for a replacement for my TP2, and I really do not want to change carriers.
The ThunderBolt™ by HTC, the First 4G LTE Smartphone for Verizon Wireless Arrives March 17
ThunderBolt™ by HTC Available Beginning March 17
BASKING RIDGE, N.J., March 15, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Verizon Wireless and HTC today announced that the ThunderBolt™ by HTC, exclusively from Verizon Wireless, is available on March 17 in Verizon Wireless Communications Stores and online at www.verizonwireless.com for $249.99 with a new two-year customer agreement.
Powered by Android™ 2.2, the ThunderBolt by HTC is the first smartphone to take advantage of Verizon Wireless' 4G LTE network. The ThunderBolt by HTC features the latest version of the HTC Sense™ experience, which offers enhancements including new personalization options, a consolidated e-mail inbox, and unique camera effects and filters. The ThunderBolt by HTC is equipped with support for Google Mobile Services, including Gmail™, YouTube™ and Android Market™ with thousands of free apps. Additionally, the ThunderBolt by HTC will feature 4G LTE optimized apps such as EA's Rock Band, Gameloft's Let's Golf, Tunewiki and Bitbop.
Additional features:
4G LTE – customers can expect download speeds of 5 to 12 Mbps and upload speeds of 2 to 5 Mbps in 4G Mobile Broadband coverage area
4.3" WVGA display
8- megapixel rear facing camera and HD (720p) video recording
1.3- megapixel front facing camera with video chatting capabilities
Newest generation of the 1GHz Snapdragon processor
Mobile Hotspot capability – share 4G connection with up to eight Wi-Fi-enabled devices
8 GB of onboard memory and a pre-installed 32 GB microSD card (Actual formatted capacity will be less)
Built-in kickstand for easy media viewing
With the ThunderBolt by HTC, customers will need to subscribe to a Verizon Wireless Nationwide Talk plan and a 4G LTE data package. Nationwide Talk plans begin at $39.99 monthly access and an unlimited 4G LTE data plan is $29.99 monthly access.
Mobile Hotspot allows users to connect up to eight Wi-Fi-enabled devices to the nation's fastest wireless network via an application available on the ThunderBolt by HTC. Mobile Hotspot will be included through May 15 for no additional charge. After May 15, customers may choose to activate Mobile Hotspot for $20 for 2 GB of data per month. Customers can track their data usage by downloading the My Verizon app available in Android Market or by logging on to their My Verizon accounts online at www.verizonwireless.com/myverizon.
For additional information on Verizon Wireless 4G LTE visit www.verizonwireless.com/4glte. For more information about the ThunderBolt by HTC please visit www.verizonwireless.com/thunderbolt. For additional information on Verizon Wireless products and services, visit a Verizon Wireless Communications Store, call 1-800-2 JOIN IN or go to www.verizonwireless.com.
About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless operates the nation's fastest and most advanced 4G network and largest and most reliable 3G network, and serves more than 94 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 82,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) and Vodafone (LSE, Nasdaq: VOD). For more information, visit www.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.
About HTC
HTC Corporation (HTC) is one of the fastest growing companies in the mobile phone industry. By putting people at the center of everything it does, HTC creates innovative smartphones that better serve the lives and needs of individuals. The company is listed on the Taiwan Stock Exchange under ticker 2498. For more information about HTC, please visit www.htc.com.
SOURCE Verizon Wireless
yup, good news for all. the only thing that i and some others are wondering is how long unlimited 4G/LTE plans will be available and if verizon will someday alter existing plans to avoid grandfathered data plans.
This was confirmed yesterday....
Sweet!
Sent from my Droid
I was kinda underwhelmed by the incremental upgrade of this phone (though everything of course looks good about it...) but seeing the unlimited 4G without a price hike makes me seriously itch to see about jumping on this while it's still unlimited.
What do you figure the odds of being able to retain that unlimited data plan for your next phone after the tbolt are? For forever we kept an old verizon plan that was far cheaper and had unlimited data...until they coerced us to "upgrade" to use any new phones
I'm on At&T right now and I've been considering buying a contract for Verizon while the 4g unlimited plans are still available. I have a grandfathered unlimited plan right now and it includes 4g service (for my Atrix), but they haven't activated the HPSA+ in my area and it seems like they never will.
Does Verizon have a history of altering contracts whenever they feel like it or is it like what I have with AT&T where I can keep the contract, grandfathered, for as long as I don't alter it?
I would just hold out for the Bionic to come out, but it seems like that could be a few months and I don't want to miss out on the plan if it goes away...
ApplCobbler said:
I'm on At&T right now and I've been considering buying a contract for Verizon while the 4g unlimited plans are still available. I have a grandfathered unlimited plan right now and it includes 4g service (for my Atrix), but they haven't activated the HPSA+ in my area and it seems like they never will.
Does Verizon have a history of altering contracts whenever they feel like it or is it like what I have with AT&T where I can keep the contract, grandfathered, for as long as I don't alter it?
I would just hold out for the Bionic to come out, but it seems like that could be a few months and I don't want to miss out on the plan if it goes away...
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Grandfathered plan is grandfathered plan. Droid Bionic is supposed to arrive this quarter, so hop on board now.
johnchad14 said:
I was kinda underwhelmed by the incremental upgrade of this phone (though everything of course looks good about it...) but seeing the unlimited 4G without a price hike makes me seriously itch to see about jumping on this while it's still unlimited.
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^ THIS. When I heard about that this morning when I called VZW and tried to get them to give me the Wirefly price for the phone, I almost just said yes anyway. Living in Jersey City, right outside of NYC, i'm almost guaranteed that I will get 4g coverage. Now I just have to decide if I want to let go of my Incredible, it's so hard...
g00s3y said:
^ THIS. When I heard about that this morning when I called VZW and tried to get them to give me the Wirefly price for the phone, I almost just said yes anyway. Living in Jersey City, right outside of NYC, i'm almost guaranteed that I will get 4g coverage. Now I just have to decide if I want to let go of my Incredible, it's so hard...
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Did they match the price? I am thinking of doing the same to add two new lines to a plan. I might walk into a store and see if they will match wirefly or their own online 199 and waive activation. Effectively same as Wirefly in the end. Except for tax.
No they didn't match it, so I just bought it at their 2 year price. I didn't really try that hard cause it didn't matter that much to me . I'm sure with a little pressure you can get them to match it. I didn't have activation fees either.
Some guy was there actually getting 4 Thunderbolt's. 1 was an upgrade, 3 were for the family plan he was getting. They were working with him to make the total as cheap as possible for him. So like I said, with a little conversation, i'm sure you can get them to help you out in some way.
g00s3y said:
No they didn't match it, so I just bought it at their 2 year price. I didn't really try that hard cause it didn't matter that much to me . I'm sure with a little pressure you can get them to match it. I didn't have activation fees either.
Some guy was there actually getting 4 Thunderbolt's. 1 was an upgrade, 3 were for the family plan he was getting. They were working with him to make the total as cheap as possible for him. So like I said, with a little conversation, i'm sure you can get them to help you out in some way.
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interesting.....as seen in other threads here there are certain discounts online if you have an employee discount (e.g. my employer's verizon store portal shows $229/1 year and $199/2 year contract). i was going to go to a verizon store today to see the thunderbolt in person before purchasing, maybe i can get them to give me the online prices available to me. i'll head there after work and let you all know if i have any success in getting cheaper online prices in-store.
Yea, our company is one of the ones that offers 199/229 for 2/1 year contracts. So I can pick it up online for 229 for 1 year but tax and 35 activation put me way above Amazon or Wirefly+Fatwallet.
On the upside, if I do 1 year I can probably upgrade and sell the TB and recoup a large chunk of the difference if I need to.
HTC wasn't kidding when they said this isn't the phone you want, its the one after that.
I am more than happy with my G2 because I love having a hardware keyboard, but the unlimited LTE data plan is the reason I am leaving. I'm probably going to buy a multi-core phone well before my 2 year contract is up.
Just Bought ThunderBolt online and after Company Discount and Upgrade priceing I got it for 199.99 plus tax. Payed 250 ish Straight up. Im a Added line so I only pay 10$ a month plus 30$ Unlimited 4g Data plus 5$ insureance. My Monthnly bill is now gonna be 45$. *SNORTS*
bummer....the verizon i went to (and it was a corporate store, not an authorized retailer) said for whatever reason they don't match online corporate discounts. i'm heading back north to where i live tomorrow so i'll check out stores there, otherwise i'll have to get it online and wait for delivery.......blah.
i guess other people have nice verizon reps nearby who are either more accommodating or more eager to make sales.
bkiminfinity said:
bummer....the verizon i went to (and it was a corporate store, not an authorized retailer) said for whatever reason they don't match online corporate discounts. i'm heading back north to where i live tomorrow so i'll check out stores there, otherwise i'll have to get it online and wait for delivery.......blah.
i guess other people have nice verizon reps nearby who are either more accommodating or more eager to make sales.
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free online 2 day shipping. pretty fast.
Mine was $199 in store, but only because of my NE2 $50 discount.
Took advantage of work discount. -$50 off of price of phone but tax rapage on list price ate that and some. 22% off 450 min voice plan (no text since I use Google Voice). Activation waved. I'll be happy if I can get Verizon to add 450 bonus mins per month to match my Sprint plan.
This is directly from TMoNews but I'm curious to see how the results will compare with theirs. I figure that TMoNews just might be... a little biased. You think?
So I wanted to post a poll on here where there are a variety of people that would share their opinions. Some of you are with AT&T... some might be with T-Mobile... others... well... why do you even care anyway?
Right... so on with it.
So unless you’ve been sleeping for the past month you likely know AT&T is purchasing T-Mobile. Understandably so, there is a population of readers up in arms and want T-Mobile to stay T-Mobile and those who see the benefits of an AT&T deal. Here is your chance to sound off, T-Mobile reads this blog every day so they’ll see your vote. Will it affect anything, probably not. However, it is a chance to make your voice known as to how you feel regarding this shocking news. Vote away! (quoted from TMoNews)
WARNING!
By the way, keep this ON TOPIC! If it strays from topic I will close it without hesitation. This will not be used to raise your post count, this will not be used for flaming, this will not be a troll fest. If I see ANY of this, the posts will be removed, the member(s) will receive an infraction and the thread will be closed!
I'm not sure what to make of it, even if it does succeed. I prefer T-Mobile to AT&T for better data speeds and cell service where I am. But AT&T has decent cell service, too. Their data speeds aren't as good as T-Mobile's. Regardless of whatever happens with the acquisition, T-Mobile would be wise to market quad band 3G data phones because just the idea of AT&T buying them will severely hamper any sales of phones. If people know their brand new T-Mobile smartphones will continue to work with AT&T, then they will continue to buy. But if T-Mobile doesn't take steps to ensure the continued operation of their phones with AT&T, even if the acquisition fails, then sales will plummet.
MartyLK said:
...T-Mobile would be wise to market quad band 3G data phones because just the idea of AT&T buying them will severely hamper any sales of phones. If people know their brand new T-Mobile smartphones will continue to work with AT&T, then they will continue to buy. But if T-Mobile doesn't take steps to ensure the continued operation of their phones with AT&T, even if the acquisition fails, then sales will plummet.
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Click to collapse
I agree. Some T-Mobile devices already support AT&T 3G. To my understanding the Vibrant does already. Although I haven't tried it for myself. They are also releasing several new phones in the near future that got me all excited such as the HTC Sensation. I love pretty much everything about that phone and I can't wait until it's release this summer! BUT! If I can't use it on AT&T's 3G network... then what would be the point of buying it? Unless AT&T adopts T-Mobiles 3G spectrum which is also a possiblity. But honestly, I am having second thoughts now about upgrading to a new phone because what if this merger DOES go through and worse case scenerio DOES happen? I'm on a T-Mobile Loyalty plan that I love! After this deal goes through (assuming of course, it does) I don't think that AT&T will want to keep me on this 'special' plan.
Just comparing what I have now with AT&T:
Tmobile:
Plan: Unlimited Loyalty $49.99
Includes - Unlimited Whenever Minutes, Unlimited Weekend Minutes, Unlimited Weeknight Minutes, WorldClass International Service
Services:
CallerTunes $1.49
Data and Text: T-Mobile Android Unlimited Web + Unlimited Messages $34.99
TOTAL: $86.47
If I was to try to get something similiar with AT&T
AT&T
Plan: Nation Unlimited $69.99
Services:
DataPro 4GB for HSPA+ Smartphone Tethering $45.00
Messaging Unlimited $20
TOTAL: $134.99
Difference of 1gb less data each month and costing me $48.52 MORE every month.
I don't think so.
More 2/3G towers for TMO users to access and new HSPA+ towers for ATT..
Yeah good deal for signal.
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What will happen to T-mobile contracts to those who still have T-mobile when and if AT&T buys it? will we start to pay more? or will we keep the same prices? what's going on :c
caoticpsycho said:
What will happen to T-mobile contracts to those who still have T-mobile when and if AT&T buys it? will we start to pay more? or will we keep the same prices? what's going on :c
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T-Mobile keeps saying that nothing will change.
AT&T says that nothing will change.
But we all know that AT&T is not going to be offering T-Moble rate plans to new customers so they will probably be grandfathered. Which means once you change your T-Mobile rate plan to an AT&T plan... you can't go back. Also when you change your phone by upgrading it is possible that you may have to change your rate plan and services.
So worse case scenario here, you go with the merger, become an AT&T customer and two or three years down the row you want to get the newest and latest phone. By that time AT&T will more than likely NOT be able to allow you to keep your current plan.
But... all of that is just my own personal assumption and again... worse case scenario.
AT&T haven't acquired TMobile. Only T-Mobile USA as I understand it. Either way, my feelings are nothing. I nothing it as I'm English and really don't care nor understand the politics of choosing a phone provider in America!
MarkusPO said:
AT&T haven't acquired TMobile. Only T-Mobile USA as I understand it. Either way, my feelings are nothing. I nothing it as I'm English and really don't care nor understand the politics of choosing a phone provider in America!
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Then why respond to the thread?
My opinion is that it will only benefit AT&T customers (maybe)
T-mobile customers will be screwed. We will be grandfathered in until we want an upgrade and be forced to switch. It will also create a GSM monopoly which will benefit no one (customers, I don't care about shareholders or CEO bonuses) I truly hope they block this merger.
Sent from either my Nexus S, N1 or telepathically using two tin cans and some string.
If i dont see some good deals then im going right to verizon
Binary100100 said:
T-Mobile keeps saying that nothing will change.
AT&T says that nothing will change.
But we all know that AT&T is not going to be offering T-Moble rate plans to new customers so they will probably be grandfathered. Which means once you change your T-Mobile rate plan to an AT&T plan... you can't go back. Also when you change your phone by upgrading it is possible that you may have to change your rate plan and services.
So worse case scenario here, you go with the merger, become an AT&T customer and two or three years down the row you want to get the newest and latest phone. By that time AT&T will more than likely NOT be able to allow you to keep your current plan.
But... all of that is just my own personal assumption and again... worse case scenario.
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As one of the oldest people in this forum, this will not be good for the consumer. I do mergers and acquisitions, and this one will not be a price reduction to us. Bottom line this will not benefit us the consumer. It will help ATT... but for us....... we will come up short and most likely have to look at going to Verizon or Sprint I hope it does not go through.
It is a terrible concept. At&t claims it will save consumers money, but as soon as new phones come out, and T-mobile customers want to upgrade to them, they will have to move to AT&T's expensive plans. I think the reasonably priced underdogs should have teamed up (Sprint and T-mobile) And I mean teamed up not bought out. Then they would be able to afford their cheap plans, they would be given the newest phones, and would make it to number one. Instead At&t will suck everyone dry until Sprint is out of business, and At&t customers realize how much they are getting ripped off. Then it will just be Verizon on top.
IMO
There's a reason Ma Bell was split up in 1984 due to an antitrust suit. Slowly they're sucking up the competition again. I don't think that having a GSM monopoly here in America is a good choice at all. It's bad for consumers because it's taking away our choices. I prefer GSM at this point to CDMA because I like the flexibility of a sim card and the fact that as far as 3G is concerned, the speeds are faster. (I'm not factoring in anything that has to do with LTE sim cards as it's still too new) I don't want to switch to Sprint or Verizon, I get too good of a deal on T-Mobile. I've had AT&T in the past and I lived in an area with a TON of dropped calls. It was horrid, and I hated their customer service. I do NOT want to be a part of AT&T again. I really hope this does not get approved. At least then T-Mobile gets 3 billion dollars from AT&T, some spectrum, and roaming agreements.
Censura_Umbra said:
...It is a terrible concept. At&t claims it will save consumers money, but as soon as new phones come out, and T-mobile customers want to upgrade to them, they will have to move to AT&T's expensive plans...
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Which is EXACTLY what I was referring to in post #7. And I don't look forward to paying $50 or more every month. Yes... it would be ~$50 according to my comparison:
Just comparing what I have now with AT&T:
Tmobile:
Plan: Unlimited Loyalty $49.99
Includes - Unlimited Whenever Minutes, Unlimited Weekend Minutes, Unlimited Weeknight Minutes, WorldClass International Service
Services:
CallerTunes $1.49
Data and Text: T-Mobile Android Unlimited Web + Unlimited Messages $34.99
TOTAL: $86.47
If I was to try to get something similiar with AT&T
AT&T
Plan: Nation Unlimited $69.99
Services:
DataPro 4GB for HSPA+ Smartphone Tethering $45.00
Messaging Unlimited $20
TOTAL: $134.99
Difference of 1gb less data each month and costing me $48.52 MORE every month.
So has anybody heard of any recent updates to this?
well ... i "vomited" online, all over, my rants ( opinions) on this matter, so, all i have to say is :THIS IS CRAP WRAPPED WITH A PRETTY AND SHINY BOW ... BUT AFTER U GET RID OF THE BOW, THE CRAP STILL SMELLS LIKE ...S /-/ iT ...
HERE IS MY REPLY / VIEW ON THIS from another post. We need to show our resent to FCC and DoD to stop this deal. Is there any cases/notices/appeals/votes going on ?? I am no lawer but i seriously believe that we can win the case by just presenting some of the FACTS from these posts.
Every company has flaws. For ATT it happens to be their network. As another member said pick your poison. I will agree with you that verizon is even more expensive than ATT but i wont agree that TMO-ATT merger can be good. I wont compare services as they are location dependent. But just for the competition sake. For e.g. :
1. TMO offers completely different plans than ATT. (and one of the cheapest data plans for $10). Also international users still have a choice of unlimited data plans. Its just what suits you.
2. TMO has more choices of top smartphones. Some of the current and future dual core phones for TMobile are - LG G2X, HTC sensation, Galaxy S2 while Atrix is the only dual core yet announced (Both are supposed to get LG 3Ds). TMO even beats ATT selection in single cores. Almost a year old Iphone 4 and Captivate are next best phones on ATT. While TMO has/had plenty of HTC, Samsung and motorola phones to choose from.
Just answer if GPS on captivate didnt work what choice were ATT customers given - none till this feb, meanwhile all the other companies released tons of android devices to suit everybodys needs. I know ATT supposed to release 15-20 android phones this year but when ? we are done with 1/3 year and all we know is LG thrill 3D and Infuse without any dates. I am sure even then TMO will have more choices to select from.
Its very important for US customers to have GSM competition as all new phone technology in world is first released in GSM. CDMA versions (IPhone, Bionic) are always months late.
3. Again right now TMOs 4G is ON while ATTs not. Atleast some GSM customers have a choice to select a working service.
4. As for what you said "Better coverage, lower prices? ", I seriously doubt less GSM competition will result in lower prices. Plus GSM coverage will still be the same. Its just that ATT will have it all and customers wont have any choice.
To conclude, If TMo-ATT deals is allowed to happen, competition (all the above stated FACTS) will severly degrade with only one GSM player.
I tried to be as neutral as i could & Just presented it from shoppers point of view. I know ATT has many positives over TMo as well. All the more reason the deal shouln't happen. Just to have a choice and maintain competition of devices and services. ATT should improve their network like everybody else by investing in it rather than buying off competition.
P.S: I hate long replies
link12245 said:
The reason HSUPA isn't enable is because android is very finicky with HSUPA. With the captivate, for example, you could change a modem file and get HSUPA, but it would normally knock out Bluetooth, or call quality. They're working to fix this, it's already in testing, so you should have your fix very soon. Also, what's your beef with the T-mo buyout? Better coverage, lower prices? Seems to be a win win for me. Either way, you can't really stop it, so just go to Verizon, get your Thunderbolt which is 1/2 as powerful with 1/4 the battery and twice the bill. Enjoy your 12mb/s (in only about 40 cities) while I'll enjoy my plenty fast 5-8mb/s when the back-haul to the towers is all complete (which in my area is the end of this month). Oh no, it actually takes time for a company to push out a nation wide roll out! Amazing that they can't just nod their head and it be done.
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What's going to happen is just like what happened when alltel got baught out by verizon. Here's the scoop when your grandfathered in with tmobile and the switch happens, you can still keep your plan when you upgrade. You can still have the tmo plan but att is billing you. So it won't hurt people I don't think. Just better signal all around. Besides when the buy out is complete there will still be tmobile stands in some markets, if it goes accordingly as it did with alltel and verizon. Good or bad? I say good! Now America will have a good gsm network. Very much comparable to verizon.
they dont even have their own network together to be trying to buy someone else out!!!!
Someone needs to buy AT&T out! Even though it will never happen!
After having heard the news about Verizon getting rid of their unlimited data plan, I felt a chill run down my spine, thinking what if Tmobile did this. Then I googled "Verizon no data plan" and found out that AT&T was the first to get rid of their unlimited plans.
I pray to God, that the AT&T buy out of Tmobile will not go through. If it does and they get rid of our unlimited plan, then this G2x will be my last smart phone, because let's face it, there's a movement to destroy the U.S. economy, not only is the dollar losing it's value, but most people have less income and living expenses are increasing, and now the mobile carriers are getting into it and milking us till our nipples bleed.
What will yall do if Tmobile ceases to offer us unlimited data, or AT&T buy out goes through? Have you looked at the cost of their data plans? Ridiculous!
All current t-mobile subscribers would get grandfathered in, so we wouldn't have to worry.
I'm on the same boat as you. My plan has 5 smartphones in it and without unlimited data, my bill would go through the roof. It's gotten to the point where my laptop is a side gadget. Haha
Also, as a previous ATT customer, I can say that everything about that company is ****...
Sent from my LG-P999 using XDA App
I would have a pace maker installed for my heart cause I can't live without my smartphone anymore.
Or get a third full time job to pay the extra cost of the bill. Luckily I have a lot of dumb people that live around me so I have lots of open Wifi to steal internet from too.
Sent from my LG-P999 using XDA Premium App
I recently (2 months ago) switched to a carrier called Simple Mobile. UNLIMITED everything for $60.00 a month. Network is all on the same as the T-Mobile frequencies, I do get 4G just as fast as my buddy who is still on T-Mo.
In areas where coverage is limited it switches over to the T-Mo network.
jacob808 said:
After having heard the news about Verizon getting rid of their unlimited data plan, I felt a chill run down my spine, thinking what if Tmobile did this. Then I googled "Verizon no data plan" and found out that AT&T was the first to get rid of their unlimited plans.
I pray to God, that the AT&T buy out of Tmobile will not go through. If it does and they get rid of our unlimited plan, then this G2x will be my last smart phone, because let's face it, there's a movement to destroy the U.S. economy, not only is the dollar losing it's value, but most people have less income and living expenses are increasing, and now the mobile carriers are getting into it and milking us till our nipples bleed.
What will yall do if Tmobile ceases to offer us unlimited data, or AT&T buy out goes through? Have you looked at the cost of their data plans? Ridiculous!
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Um.....I thought they stopped a few months ago. With their more and even more plans...and soon with their Value/Classic plans. Unless we're talking about 2 different things here
Did you read this rumor? http://www.tmonews.com/2011/06/in-depth-with-t-mobiles-new-classic-and-value-rate-plans/
Let them take away unlimited plan cuz they will just recieve a bunch of disconnects cuz i for one know a smart phone requires way to much bandwidth to even try to pay as you go teir plans.
This is BS how U.S. cell companies get away with this highway robbery. We are about to default on the countries debt.. millions of people without jobs and they want to penny pinch some more out of us.
Secondly we dont even have real 4G speeds and Singapore has faster and cheaper cell plans then us... wow its just sad
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They are doing it because with smart phones, unlimited data isn't a realistic option with current infrastructure and technology in mind. Its too costly to let people use 30 gigabytes of data a month with no additional penalty on the customers part. 95 percent of users fall within the tier limits of 2gb or less.
Sent from my LG-P999 using XDA App
Yes the unlimited data thing really blows, I use my wireless hotspot to connect my wifi iPad to and watch movies and work remotely. I average about 25GB a month, but now with all these caps its going to be like having Comcast. They call me up several times a year and threaten to d/c me because I'm always going over their 250GB cap. The thing is, almost 200GB come from the three TV's that are constantly streaming HULU and Netflix, and the rest is normal internet stuff.
This is going to really screw me up, I guess I'll have to ask for my work to contribute more towards my calling plan.
You don't have to worry about it. FTC regulations state that when a firm acquires another, it must honor any and all lingering agreements of the acquired firm. Meaning if AT&T does buy T-Mobile they are legally obligated to provide you with the service you were promised by TM.
Everything gets abused. What's the point of smart device that you cannot acess all of it's cool features?
Sent from my LG-P999 using XDA Premium App
LordButtersI said:
You don't have to worry about it. FTC regulations state that when a firm acquires another, it must honor any and all lingering agreements of the acquired firm. Meaning if AT&T does buy T-Mobile they are legally obligated to provide you with the service you were promised by TM.
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All current t-mobile subscribers would get grandfathered in, so we wouldn't have to worry.
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Sure, you'll have service, and your data will be EDGE after they shut down the T-Mo 3/4G. I dont think anywhere in the contract does it say they are obligated to give you a certain throughput. So after you are fed up with slow data you will be force to buy a new phone.. BUT, will this mean that we can get a new "LTE 4G" ATT phone, unlock it and have our grandfathered plan from former T-Mo with new ATT network??
I imagine AT&T would offer something where we can upgrade to a GSM-compatible phone at minimal if any charge. Even if they don't advertise something like that, it would almost certainly be an option their customer service can push through.
Effectively ruining pretty much every smartphone customer's phone would be PR suicide, and possibly even grounds for a class-action lawsuit.
Yes AT& T will honor our plans, until you need to change a service or phone and then you will have to go to there plans!
Sent from my LG-P999 using XDA Premium App
jacob808 said:
After having heard the news about Verizon getting rid of their unlimited data plan, I felt a chill run down my spine, thinking what if Tmobile did this. Then I googled "Verizon no data plan" and found out that AT&T was the first to get rid of their unlimited plans.
I pray to God, that the AT&T buy out of Tmobile will not go through. If it does and they get rid of our unlimited plan, then this G2x will be my last smart phone, because let's face it, there's a movement to destroy the U.S. economy, not only is the dollar losing it's value, but most people have less income and living expenses are increasing, and now the mobile carriers are getting into it and milking us till our nipples bleed.
What will yall do if Tmobile ceases to offer us unlimited data, or AT&T buy out goes through? Have you looked at the cost of their data plans? Ridiculous!
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T-mobile still has unlimited data but you have caps now, once you hit your cap you get bumped down to Edge (2G) speeds.
McFroger3 said:
All current t-mobile subscribers would get grandfathered in, so we wouldn't have to worry.
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All current t-mobile subscribers that are on contract when the buyout proceeds would get grandfathered in for the duration of their contract.
Then, they'll no longer grandfather your plan and will force you to "upgrade" to their current plans.
Black6spdZ said:
Sure, you'll have service, and your data will be EDGE after they shut down the T-Mo 3/4G. I dont think anywhere in the contract does it say they are obligated to give you a certain throughput. So after you are fed up with slow data you will be force to buy a new phone.. BUT, will this mean that we can get a new "LTE 4G" ATT phone, unlock it and have our grandfathered plan from former T-Mo with new ATT network??
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This transition should be a few years in the making after the buyout proceeds. Every customer who bought a 3G/4G phone should be off-contract by the time the transition happens & then they'd offer you a new phone with a contract extension (like normal). This shouldn't be a big deal at all.
AT&T is under zero obligation to honor the TMO plans after the term of your contract is up (and even then, if it 'costs' them too much to honor it, they can cancel the contract and force you to either update or leave, but at least you'd be able to leave without an ETF). From what I've read, they didn't grandfather the Cingular plans for most people, so I don't see why they'll grandfather the TMO plans now (meaning after your contract is up, they have no reason to continue allowing you to use the TMO pricing).
Sigh, this really sucks. I hope the government disallows this merger. For people like me who only supports GSM tech, this is a freaking disaster and is obviously a monopoly. How can the government not see this. 1 GSM network is NOT a choice.
However, I'm guessing when AT&T was willing to say that they'd pay T-Mobile if the merger doesn't go through, they've probably paid off the right people with millions to make sure that they don't actually have to pay off that few billions since the merger will go through regardless. The so-called due-process currently occurring is likely to be a sham =(
tjhart85 said:
All current t-mobile subscribers that are on contract when the buyout proceeds would get grandfathered in for the duration of their contract.
Then, they'll no longer grandfather your plan and will force you to "upgrade" to their current plans.
This transition should be a few years in the making after the buyout proceeds. Every customer who bought a 3G/4G phone should be off-contract by the time the transition happens & then they'd offer you a new phone with a contract extension (like normal). This shouldn't be a big deal at all.
AT&T is under zero obligation to honor the TMO plans after the term of your contract is up (and even then, if it 'costs' them too much to honor it, they can cancel the contract and force you to either update or leave, but at least you'd be able to leave without an ETF). From what I've read, they didn't grandfather the Cingular plans for most people, so I don't see why they'll grandfather the TMO plans now (meaning after your contract is up, they have no reason to continue allowing you to use the TMO pricing).
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hasn't this merger already passed? people keep saying that it will happen but still nothing.
it should pass by next year
Well as it stands right now I'm at 8.6 out of 5Gb of unlimited data on my G2X and its been throttled to 60Kbps. its throughput is roughly 7.1KB per second when downloading a file. so I might as well not even have a smart phone since I cant even check my damn email or use the FB/Google+ apps.