[Q] AT&T changed data plan. Can I get out ETF free? - General Questions and Answers

Hi all,
If my question is not in the appropriate forum please move it. I can also see this question in the general section.
Situation & Question below:
Today AT&T just changed my unlimited media net data plan ($15) to the 2gb capped data pro2 plan ($25). When I first signed up for AT&T over a year ago I got the unlimited medianet plan with a normal 3g flip phone. I quickly took the 3g sim from the flip phone and began using my medianet dataplan with an Xperia x1 smartphone. Last March I replaced the Xperia x1 with an AT&T branded Backflip I purchased off of ebay. Since the beginning of my plan I have had no problems with using the medianet dataplan with my smartphones. Even when AT&T changed their data plans this summer I assumed I would be "grandfathered" in with my current plan.
Since AT&T changed my plan am I able to leave AT&T without suffering an ETF or is it within my contract that AT&T can make a change and not allow me to opt out if they notice a "mistake" on my account?
Also, how exactly would you suggest going about it if I can use this as an excuse to break my contract. I've read several articles online about it, but I would appreciate any extra experience.
1. I know I was kind of abusing a loop hole, so please spare me the lecture.
2. The 2gb plan won't work for me because I tether my netbook to my phone at least twice a day on a 1 hour train ride. (I usually use 1.5-3GB a month)
Thanks in advanced.

You might be able to get your unlimited plan back if you complain to an AT&T rep about the change of terms of service. But I suspect they finally caught on to your tethering
Dropped from my smoking fast Captivate (Darky's Raw Steel v3.0)

I got that text msg also on the 21st. It looks like tethering has nothing to do with it since I didn't even bother to tether. I see some folks are able to get their grandfathered plans back and some can't. It is up to the service rep. As soon as I find a couple of hours to call ATT service, I will be trying to get my grandfathered data plan back.
Good luck on your try.

I was a QA Supervisor in a call center with Cingular and then AT&T for years.
First thing, anytime you change phones you need to call AT&T and change the IMEI number on that line number. If you do not do this, you can have problems with your service and it CAN cause problems with billing some of the time. Not saying that has ANYTHING to do with your current issue, I'm just sharing that information with you. People think they can just jump the SIM card from one phone to the next without an issue but it CAN cause a problem. AGAIN, not saying that has ANYTHING to do with your problem and this is just a SIDE NOTE.
As far as you trying to get out of your contract without an ETF, it is not going to happen. AT&T reserves the right to change your service at anytime. This is the policy with 98% of companies these days. NOW, depending on where you are in your contract, you could be subject to a lower ETF here. I know that AT&T raised the ETF a few months ago but as it has always been, the farther along you are in your contract, the lower the fee will be. I would call them and ask how much the ETF would be right now. Also get the ETF for each month for the next say, 6 months. (just looked back at your post again and noticed that you have had service for over a year now). Since you are over one year into your contract, you MIGHT be able to get something out of this if you do not want to cancel and just pay the lower fee. Get a supervisor on the phone and BE NICE. Do NOT try to quote any laws, policies or TOS to the person you speak to. You do not work for AT&T, THEY DO. Just let them know that you are not happy with the new data plan and have been looking into changing to a different company so that you can use the unlimited data. I myself have the unlimited data plan and it is still on $15 a month. I've had it for over 3 years and have upgraded within that time. All of the phones on my account have the unlimited data @ $15 a month and all have been upgraded while using the plan. I have a feeling that they got you because of the tethering OR you have somehow allowed this change to happen while on the phone with one of the CSRs. I've seen where plans have been changed on accounts and the customer was on the phone when it happened and agreed to it. I've also seen these same customers call back later and claim they never agreed to anything. It is VERY easy to get lost in the conversation with some of these CSRs and have things changed on your account, not saying it is right for them to do , just saying it happens.
Talk to a supervisor and go from there with it. Make sure you let him know you have had the UDP for the life of the account and without it, you will be looking at a different company. He will check your account and see when, why and how the plan was changed and he MIGHT allow you to have it back. AT&T is not in the business of losing customers, use that to get what you want. Just remember, BE NICE and do not try to act like you know more than the person you are talking to (i don't care if you're talking to one of the idiots on the call floor)
You cancel your service, you are going to pay an ETF. There is no way around that. Like I said, you are far along in your contract so it will not cost you as much. I believe there is at least one company out there right now that will pay your ETF with AT&T if you switch service and use them. I can't remember which company it is but you can google search or call the different companies and ask just ask well as I can.

thanks for the great reply. I myself don't want to leave, I am going to call them to get my grandfathered data plan back if I can. I usually do call them to change the IMEI but just plum forgot to with this phone.
Thanks again

jumpdawg said:
thanks for the great reply. I myself don't want to leave, I am going to call them to get my grandfathered data plan back if I can. I usually do call them to change the IMEI but just plum forgot to with this phone.
Thanks again
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You could have told me you also worked for them before I typed all of that to you as if I was talking to a rookie..lmfaooooooo I got your PM
Hope you get everything worked up man...but again..lmfaooooooo. You got me good on that one

jagpoag
Your info is on the spot for anyone reading this. I followed it to a tee and I now have my old dataplan back. So your post was not wasted on me. It had all the info I needed to get my plan back. It took no where near two hours (actually only about 20 minutes). CSR was pleasent and knew exactly what to do.
Thanks again

Related

Wanting to buy/test captivate - Best option?

I've been dying to upgrade from my ever outdating Blackberry Bold. Since I am on AT&T my options are limited but I want to steer clear from the Iphone and nothing that RIM has out attracts me at al right nowl, including the new but outdated BB Torch. I am also in a family plan that I cannot leave. I've seen the Captivate and I've been doing two weeks of research and lurking XDA amongst other android forums.
I've come to the point where I've decided I definitely want to get the Captivate but I'm still on the fence due to all of the negatives I read. I understand the phone has many positives though and I've spent a good hour or two in the store playing with it. I have two options at this point:
1) Buy the phone at AT&T and extend my contract. This will cost about $200 and I will be grandfathered into my unlimited data. I will have 30 days to "test" the phone out and if I don't like it I will be forced to choose another phone. I won't be able to go back to my Bold because the AT&T rep said I will lose my unlimited data, which is something I want to completely avoid. Worst case if I bring the Captivate back I could go back to another Blackberry (Torch or a newer Bold)
2) I found a few locals selling new captivates for $350-$400ish. Although more expensive than option 1, I won't be locked into a contract or forced to choose another phone if I don't like the Captivate. Once the other half of my family plan's contract is up I will then decide if I want to stick with AT&T or go elsewhere. If I end up not liking the Captivate I can just sell it off online or locally and think of a new solution. My only concern is my unlimited data. The AT&T rep said I *may or may not* be able to retain my unlimited data when activating a Captivate this way and that is up to customer service. He was kind of vague about this and it worries me because I don't want to drop $350 on a Captivate and lose my data. Has anyone done this option and successfully gotten to keep their unlimited data?
Sorry for the wall of text but any advice would be greatly appreciated!
I was in your shoes (former 9000 bold user)
...and I got my phone at Wal-Mart for $148.88.
I did lose my unlimited BB plan, but the AT&T reps I had talked to before told me that would happen. It turned out I wasn't using more than about 200 mb in a month, but my usage has definitely gone up since I upgraded. I would definitely suggest the 2gb plan.
The people at Wal-Mart were fine to work with, but my plan got messed up and I had to call AT&T customer service to get my plan straightened out. If you go to Wal-mart be sure to check your account online at the earliest opportunity. They had actually created a separate account for my new phone, separate from the family plan.
Good luck!
Bought Captivate New in Box $350 off a local, cut the middleman (no need to talk to att) just put your BB sim in the Captivate, and you're good to go.
Save the contract like me, for the new phones that will come these holidays
MikalCarbine said:
I've come to the point where I've decided I definitely want to get the Captivate but I'm still on the fence due to all of the negatives I read. I understand the phone has many positives though and I've spent a good hour or two in the store playing with it. I have two options at this point:
1) Buy the phone at AT&T and extend my contract. This will cost about $200 and I will be grandfathered into my unlimited data. I will have 30 days to "test" the phone out and if I don't like it I will be forced to choose another phone. I won't be able to go back to my Bold because the AT&T rep said I will lose my unlimited data, which is something I want to completely avoid. Worst case if I bring the Captivate back I could go back to another Blackberry (Torch or a newer Bold)
2) I found a few locals selling new captivates for $350-$400ish. Although more expensive than option 1, I won't be locked into a contract or forced to choose another phone if I don't like the Captivate. Once the other half of my family plan's contract is up I will then decide if I want to stick with AT&T or go elsewhere. If I end up not liking the Captivate I can just sell it off online or locally and think of a new solution. My only concern is my unlimited data. The AT&T rep said I *may or may not* be able to retain my unlimited data when activating a Captivate this way and that is up to customer service. He was kind of vague about this and it worries me because I don't want to drop $350 on a Captivate and lose my data. Has anyone done this option and successfully gotten to keep their unlimited data?
Sorry for the wall of text but any advice would be greatly appreciated!
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The AT&T rep is an idiot. You can upgrade to the captivate and keep your unlimited data plan. If you decide you don't like it before your 30 days are you you can return the captivate, cancel your upgrade, and go back to your Bold while keeping your unlimited data plan.
Why the hell would you lose your unlimited data plan??? I had a blackberry and I switched to the iphone 4, I was able to retain the unlimited data with no issues.
I got tired of the iphone and switched to the captivate (best choice ever) and I still managed to keep my unlimited data.
I still have my blackberry and I was told I could switch between both phones and have unlimited data on either one since it's on my plan. Haven't tried it yet though.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA App
Bowsa2511 said:
Bought Captivate New in Box $350 off a local, cut the middleman (no need to talk to att) just put your BB sim in the Captivate, and you're good to go.
Save the contract like me, for the new phones that will come these holidays
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Click to collapse
This is just plug and play? You lose no functionality or risk anything? If that's the case this may be my ideal scenario because if I end up wanting to go back I just switch the sim card back to my BB and sell the captivate for a somewhat lower price depending on how long I use it
lost2030 said:
Why the hell would you lose your unlimited data plan??? I had a blackberry and I switched to the iphone 4, I was able to retain the unlimited data with no issues.
I got tired of the iphone and switched to the captivate (best choice ever) and I still managed to keep my unlimited data.
I still have my blackberry and I was told I could switch between both phones and have unlimited data on either one since it's on my plan. Haven't tried it yet though.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA App
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Click to collapse
Greedy reps wanting to lick OP into a contract.
Yes, just plug and play no problem, even checked my account right now.. UNLIMITED
Did you have a BB before your captivate? My ATT online says its a GPRS BB Unlimited data plan, I'm not sure if it matters that its a BB data plan while changing the sim without involving ATT
MikalCarbine said:
Did you have a BB before your captivate? My ATT online says its a GPRS BB Unlimited data plan, I'm not sure if it matters that its a BB data plan while changing the sim without involving ATT
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Click to collapse
I believe it should work.. but they might question all non-bb data usage, so in that case just call att support, and they'll do the switch for you (BB-unlimited-Smartphone Unlimited).
If they say something like "you need new contract/plans" ask to talk to higher authority, because it's within your right to stay grandfathered in.
I upgraded from a Bold 9000 with Unlimited BB Plan and got to keep my Unlimite Plan when I switched over to the Captivate back on the Captivate's Launch Day! I am not going back as I am very happy with my Captivate!
HTH,
Charlie
I also wanted to point out that I tried to get a discount on the phone at ATT since amazon, wirefly and walmart all sell it cheaper. I've read a few threads where people have had such discounts honored. The rep said the only reason they do that is because they they (amazon for example he said) require a 4 year contract, 2 with them and 2 with ATT. This seems like BS to me and I couldn't find anything on Amazon to verify this. Is this at all true?
Just picked up my captivate today! I went to a much larger and better store and asked the rep some questions, he said the previous rep didn't know what he was talking about at all. He also gave me a $50 discount once I showed him the print out from Amazon. Once I feel out the phone I'll be rooting and modding the crap out of it
MikalCarbine said:
Just picked up my captivate today! I went to a much larger and better store and asked the rep some questions, he said the previous rep didn't know what he was talking about at all. He also gave me a $50 discount once I showed him the print out from Amazon. Once I feel out the phone I'll be rooting and modding the crap out of it
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Click to collapse
Where did you buy, and did you get locked into a contract?
KEEP YOUR STOCK ROM IF YOU VALUE EASY TETHERING
First read up on the "Pimp My Captivate" pdf
then at the step for rooting, just flash the Unleash the beast build found in the dev section where it'll root, remove bloat apps, and give you the steps to sideroot.
Follow the rest of the pimp my captivate guide
Cosmetic mods I recommend are the battery icon, the evo black bar mod (there's a combo of them both somewhere in the dev section in the thread)
I posted some fonts in the themes section, you should set-up launcherpro with 3d app-cabinet
Get beautiful widgets, some nice live wallpapers (I'm rocking the droid x one)
and there's the notification mod, in the themes section too.
Explore and have fun, but remember to keep a nandroid backup handy (when you figure out what that is )
Best Buy has a 14 day return policy. Not sure what the restocking fee is though.

Anyone convince the death star to let them keep their mediamax plan?

As the title says, has anyone had success in getting AT&T to let them keep their mediamax plan? I have been using the mediamax 200 plan, unlimited data and 200 messages, since 2005 through several smartphones and have been using my captivate out of contract for over three months. Last night they decided to switch me to datapro and 200 messages, a $10/month increase and less service. I've already spoken to cs and one supervisor, another is supposed to call me. So far they're sticking to "it's AT&T policy...." even though I'm maintaining a family plan of five and have been a customer since the days of bell south and cingular.
Up until I got my Captivate, I was also a MediaMax customer. Absolutely loved it. But, I was forced to "upgrade" when I got the Captivate at the discounted rate. However, they don't have the authority to just change your plan unless you authorize it, AFAIK. Keep at it and force them to reinstate your original plan.
I have been two years now with the MediaMax plan with 200 msg's, whitout any problems!! I just upgrade my phone to a Captivate last month!! and I just leave the plan as It was! Thy don't touch it!! And for they touch the plan they need to be autorized by you first.
I got them to let me keep my plan -- Unlimited data with 1500 texts. And I think that my mms is unlimited through data plan.
Anyway, I got my Cappy through the AT&T website -- which may make a difference. I wanted to make sure I purchased it at the $150 rate, where I was comfortable enough that I'd be able to keep my plan, which was hugely important to me -- at the expense of the $100 I could have save through Amazon deal offered by AT&T. I did NOT pull the trigger at Amazon after going almost fully through the signup process, just to see what data plans and terms were offered. Amazon only offered a few "new" data plan choices -- all limited. NO unlimited data plan offer at all, and NO offer of keeping current data plan. So, over to AT&T I went, because I was just too anxious to get my new Cappy. Or course, it's all xda's fault.
AT&T website did have a keep your current plan option, but I couldn't select it for some reason -- software glitch on their end. In any case, it gave me a firm footing from which to make my demand to keep my unlimited data plan.
I bought the phone went through the entire process with AT&T checkout . . . Then made the call to AT&T almost immediately after getting my confirmation on the Cappuccino order and new 2 year contract setup. I came from the annoyed/angry angle, polite but with clear worry in my voice -- but always coming with assurance (never dropped the Lawyer Bomb, but acted like it).
No resistance at all. In fact, the guy could not accommodate me fast enough. He wad really nice, too, but I even made him stutter twice while adressing my specific annoyance with the AT&T website contract renewal process, and how alarmed I was that I could not select the lost valuable option to me in terms of my new Cappy purchase -- keeping my unlimited data plan.
Maybe it was partly due to the fact that their own website had the keep your current data plan option. But whatever. I got fairly lucky, though. Bottom line is that it's a new contract with new terms and a new 2 year term. The terms of the contract are all contained within the four corners of the document, and it is a take it or leave omit situation. It's essentially a contract of adhesion, where one party unilaterally sets the terms and no amendments from the purchasing party will be accepted.
They can and will force you to accept the limited data plan, IF IF IF it's in the contract. Not sure I kept mine.
Anyone got a link to the current fork contract, so I can give it the attorney review. I can then post a definitive answer and possibly more advice on a successful approach to AT&T.
••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
VICTORIA CONCORDIA CRESCIT
------------> Sent from my Froyolicious Cognitious Cappy . . . Smooth like Arsenal Football Club.
i have my unlimited data plan from when i rewnewed a 2 year contact for the captivate. unlimited text and data. on the family share plan too so its all good. so far no issues.
that sucks you had to go through that. The "unlimited" internet option was still available for me when I got my cappy from the AT&T site when it came out.
I still cringe at the thought that I almost got an iPhone 4.
Ew.
Well at least I know some still have it. I was polite but firm and told them exactly what I wanted. Not even a nibble or a let me see what I can do though. The front line person tried to tell me that the plan wasn't compatible and I didn't even let her finish with that excuse. The second level stuck to "it's policy" and "the system won't let us" even after I pointed out that I could take my line and leave immediately with no penalty. I even asked what I would have to pay to take my other four lines as well. The only thing the supervisor offered was to have another supervisor call me back in 24 - 72 hours. I guess I'll wait for my callback. I'm just surprised that they didn't offer anything to keep a long time customer happy.
I don't even want to leave because I got the captivate working perfectly and customized for me but I can't stand the limits and price bumps that AT&T keeps pushing when other carriers are still offering "unlimited" packages.
I had my full unlimited everything plan for my old phone. I found walmart onlime had the cappy for $89 so I went for it. They called me 4 days later saying i had to change to ome of the lower plans. So I canceled.through the walmart online. Went down to walmart and payed $139 but I was able to keep my everything plan with with unlimited data, unlimited internet, unlimited text and mms. So Everything... I called ATT before doing so to confirm with them. Not sure I would have switched up without it
Sent my Cog'd 2.4.1 FroYo, Darkness Themed, Full of Speed yet Stable as can be Rom that is Snazzy
Uhg. I did this same dance a few months ago. I was promised by several AT&T reps that I could keep my old plan (unlimited data, unlimited text, 200 mms), but someone 'accidentally' deleted it from my account in the process of doing the upgrade. And nobody was able to get it back. After going back and forth for 3 months, they ended up offering to put me on a data unlimited plan and give me a $200 credit for my difficulties.
The _only_ reasons that I stayed with AT&T are that a) most of my friends and family (as well as my company) are on AT&T, and b) it wouldn't end up being any cheaper elsewhere.
If the Droid 2 world phone had been out, I might have very well jumped ship regardless.
I still have it.
When I upgraded to the Captivate, I found out they had left my MediaMax plan in place, even though I used a Samsung Impression for about a month. The AT&T sales rep said that since it was still on my account, I could keep it. I guess that's a rare case of their mistake working in my favor. I hope you get it worked out.
I bought from the store soon after it came out. I asked them if I could keep the unlimited plan and the lady who sold me the phone said yeah. After I paid I double checked with her and she told me some smack about the computer had automatically 'upgaded' me the crappier plan. I nicely reminded her that wanted my old plan and she said she needed her boss to okay it and she wasn't in the store. She said she'd fix it and call me.
She didn't call. After 2 days I called the store and they told me I needed to call the mothership to get it fixed. I was pretty pissed by then so I called the main ATT number and screamed at them until they fixed it.
If it wasn't for my wife wanting her iphone and our decent (old) family plan I'd ditch ATT over this tricky crap they tried to pull.
I ordered online, didn't activate and swapped my sim over.
Of course I had the iphone unlimited plan, not the one you are talking about.
just so you know man, you can get anything from ATT if you are persistent enough. BUT they will NEVER call you back. They're just too busy to call back. They only say that to appease you at the moment.
Ever since I got my first cell phone, I've been with ATT and they've NEVER called me back once. They've been accommodating and what not but you have to call them.
Denied for a second time. I suppose I'll give them one more try in a day or so before looking into jumping ship. Too bad as I just got the captivate to what I would call perfect. Oh well. I suppose I'll be jumping to the Droid X or Evo forum as it doesn't look like the facinate has the dev support that we do and I don't need the hardware keyboard on the epic. Anyone want a captivate?
I'm on a premier acct (Business FAN) and i've never once been hassled about my medianet 200 which I originally signed up on with the SE W810i (also on the 550min familytalk with 3 line limit that isn't offered anymore)
Since they started requiring smartphone specific plans i've upgraded to the blackjack, tilt, fuze, pure, tilt2, captivate. All through the premier online store, 1 year contracts (usually allow upgrading 6-8 months into it with a 1 year contract).
AT&T definitely recognizes the IMEIs properly as I sold the Fuze to a buddy of mine and as soon as he booted it up with his SIM inside, his plan got switched to smartphone data.
One of my other lines purchased the pure with a data block on the account (normally that phone would require data and not be allowed with a data block) 1 year contract for $0.01 shipped, no data plan required at purchase time. Captivate (refurb) was $49.99 shipped on 1 year contract, again no data plan requirements at purchase time.
Somewhere in the system there's a flag that turns on/off this automatic IMEI plan switching, i imagine. Something tied to business accounts/grandfathered accounts would be my guess.
Da_G said:
All through the premier online store
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Crap. I've a premier account as well. I almost went that route, but decided to do it in person instead. Result? I got screwed, and after 7 handoffs to different managers, they "couldn't put my old plan back on" and were "terribly sorry to loose me as a customer, but have no way to readd the plan". I guess I should have just done it on the web like I was first planning to.
yeah, I've done similarly. Also on a large FAN and I've been through a Cingular 3125 -> 8125 -> Tilt -> Fuze -> Captivate and only now has it been a problem. Kind of annoying to be honest as they stick to the party line of "That plan isn't compatible with your phone, no one can put it back." I'm always polite but maybe I shouldn't be. I've mentioned going to a competitor casually to both reps and got no offers either.
Premire here as well. They said I was grandfathered in to the old unlimited data plan
Premier customer for a decade. I've had the mediamax 200 for about 6-7 years. I never had a problem switching phones and keeping my plan (8125, fuze etc). I got the Captivate on Sep 20th. When it was activated (at BB) I got a txt saying a data plan is required with my smartphone and 1 would be added for me if I didn't. I didn't think much of it because the sales rep said I could keep my current plan and the terms for the phone only said that a min $15 data plan was required.
On Nov 9th, I got a txt saying "Did you know a data plan is required for your phone? We have added an appropriate data & msging plan".
Total crap. Currently waiting for my BBB complaint to go through.
Welcome to suck!
mediamax plan?
not sure what the "mediamax" plan is, but I am on the 1200 minutes, unlimited data, and unlimited text/MMS. it was originally the $100 iphone plan back in the day.
I was able to keep it because I was "grandfathered" in from my original iPhone 2G. I kept it through my upgrade to the "pure" (POS WinMo phone) last october. Then when I upgraded to the Cap I had to resign to another "new" contract and shortly realized after the first bill they switched me from the unlimited data to a limited plan. I then proceeded to throw a "****-fit" and called customer service.
I had to talk to quite a few "managers" and gripe at them about cancelling (been a customer for over 5 years) before they gave it back to me. I had the final "best luck" calling at 7am (CST).
When we merged my G/f's account with mine last july she had the plan also but the captivate upgrade actually ended up sticking to her since she didnt originally have the unlimited.
Crappy thing is we are going to probably have to go through it all over again when we upgrade her line...and I really doubt I will be that lucky as when I got it last time they said they are getting EVERYONE off the unlimited- even at&t employees...

AT&T FAQ

Hello, I am opening this thread so that I may convey some info to you guys about how things work at AT&T Mobility, more importantly about the upcoming HSPA+ and data packages.
Some abbreviations:
COR = Corporate Retail Store
CARE = Customer Service
OLAM = Online Account Manager
How do I find out if I'm eligible to upgrade?
There are several ways to do this, be it going to a COR store, calling CARE, or checking OLAM. However, the easiest way is to check with the star command *NEW#, or *639#. Just call that number and you will soon receive a text message letting you know your upgrade eligibility.
Note: Will not work on some accounts (Notably business accounts) and if you have a balance on your account.
Is there any other handy star commands?
Yes:
*DATA# (Data Usage, Including Messaging Usage)
*BAL# (Account Balance Info)
*PAY# (Bill Payment)
*MIN# (Minutes Balance, Including Rollover)
I have Unlimited Data, will I get to keep it if I upgrade to an Inspire?
If you have the old MediaMax plan, no. However, you should be offered the old/new $30 Unlimited Smartphone Data Plan.
If you have the old/new $30 Unlimited Smartphone Data Plan, yes.
If you have the $10 Unlimited Quick Messaging/Basic Data Plan, then you will have to move to one of the new smartphone plans, Data Plus or Data Pro.
What if I'm not eligible to upgrade but still want the Inspire?
Well, your best bet is to buy it at full retail price. However, there is something else that is offered called an exception upgrade. ALL of these need to apply to you to be able to have an exception upgrade.
- Last upgrade date must be at least 6 months from today.
- Only one exception upgrade per contract length.
- No balance on the account.
- Can only exception upgrade at COR or CARE. (Revision Possible)
An exception upgrade will add $75 to the 2 year contract price of a Quick Messaging/Basic phone and $200 to a Smartphone.
Your other option is to add a stripped down line, suck up the $10 a month, and use that phone on your current line.
Can I use another line's upgrade for me?
Yes. As long as you are an authorized user you may.
Can I use another account's upgrade for me?
Technically, no. However, it all depends on that particular representative or manager. But, nothing is stopping you to upgrade one account, drive to another store, and activating the phones on their respective lines. Or switching SIM cards.
I'm available to upgrade but Radio Shack/Best Buy/Wirefly, etc. has it for much cheaper, will AT&T price match?
Once again it depends on representative/manager but short answer, no. AT&T will only price match on new lines/accounts, not upgrades. Why this is I have no idea and I believe it's a bad business practice but I'm not the boss.
Now, if you're adding a line or getting a new account, AT&T will price match a printed advertisement. However, you might get the manager to approve a Wirefly, Amazon, etc. price.
My phone broke by itself and it's within a year of the original purchase date, what should I do?
Depends on a lot of factors. If you purchased it somewhere other than at COR, CARE,or OLAM you need to follow that particular business' return policy.
If purchased at COR or CARE, and it's within 30 days of the original purchase date, take it back to COR (Even if purchased at CARE or OLAM) and they will do an in house warranty replacement.
If it's past the 30 day window, don't even bother going to COR or calling CARE, they will both redirect you to our Warranty Department which you can call at 1-800-801-1101.
I broke/wet/dropped my phone, what should I do?
If you have insurance on your plan, then call our Insurance Department (Asurion) at 1-888-562-8662.
Once again, do not bother going to COR or calling CARE, they will just direct you to the proper department. Also, don't try to play us as fools, you know what you did, and we will figure it out too.
If you don't have insurance, well....
Feel free to ask me any questions and I will add them accordingly.
Reserved for OP.
Also reserved for OP.
Question; Am I right to understand that I can get the old $30 unlimited plan back? The one that includes all data and messaging? I used to have this but then AT&T switched me to the $25/mo plan with no warning a while back, after having had it for almost a year.
wraithevolution said:
Question; Am I right to understand that I can get the old $30 unlimited plan back? The one that includes all data and messaging? I used to have this but then AT&T switched me to the $25/mo plan with no warning a while back, after having had it for almost a year.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes and no. There are some ways for you to get this back, but I beleive only Tier II CARE can do this. It also depends on a lot of factors, like how long ago you "lost" it, what CARE rep you speak with, how long you've been a customer, how you treat the CARE rep, if your account is in good standing with us, etc.
Don't bother going into COR, it's my understanding that the ability to "recover" the unlimited data has been removed from all COR employees, including managers.
danielsaenz said:
Yes and no. There are some ways for you to get this back, but I beleive only Tier II CARE can do this. It also depends on a lot of factors, like how long ago you "lost" it, what CARE rep you speak with, how long you've been a customer, how you treat the CARE rep, if your account is in good standing with us, etc.
Don't bother going into COR, it's my understanding that the ability to "recover" the unlimited data has been removed from all COR employees, including managers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well what is the easiest way to get to a Tier II rep.
I called today inquiring about the Inspire and an unlimited data plan and had no luck. I even went as far as asking how much early termination fee was as unlimited data was a must for me to buy the Inspire.
I am starting to think the best option will be to buy an unlocked Telus DHD and just continue to use my $10 Family unlimited plan as I do with my Hero.
You mentioned upgrading from a MediaMax plan.
I'm not sure if mine qualifies or not. I currently own a Samsung Eternity that I got on contract two years ago, and I opted for unlimited data. My AT&T account is calling it "Data Unlimited for non-smartphones." Because this was from two years ago, I think it's a mediamax plan, but the account online doesn't have that in the name. Does that count?
I would be really disappointed both paying more for internet and being capped.
danielsaenz said:
What if I'm not eligible to upgrade but still want the Inspire?[/B]
Well, your best bet is to buy it at full retail price. However, there is something else that is offered called an exception upgrade. ALL of these need to apply to you to be able to have an exception upgrade.
- Last upgrade date must be at least 6 months from today.
- Only one exception upgrade per contract length.
- No balance on the account.
- Can only exception upgrade at COR or CARE.
Thats not true. Just to clear things up, you can exception upgrade at an authorized dealer and kiosk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
dsmkrt said:
You mentioned upgrading from a MediaMax plan.
I'm not sure if mine qualifies or not. I currently own a Samsung Eternity that I got on contract two years ago, and I opted for unlimited data. My AT&T account is calling it "Data Unlimited for non-smartphones." Because this was from two years ago, I think it's a mediamax plan, but the account online doesn't have that in the name. Does that count?
I would be really disappointed both paying more for internet and being capped.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
MediaMax is the old iPhone plans that bundled a messaging bundle with unlimited data for a lower price. What you have is the $10 unlimited data for Quick Messaging/Basic Data.
Evilspawn said:
danielsaenz said:
What if I'm not eligible to upgrade but still want the Inspire?[/B]
Well, your best bet is to buy it at full retail price. However, there is something else that is offered called an exception upgrade. ALL of these need to apply to you to be able to have an exception upgrade.
- Last upgrade date must be at least 6 months from today.
- Only one exception upgrade per contract length.
- No balance on the account.
- Can only exception upgrade at COR or CARE.
Thats not true. Just to clear things up, you can exception upgrade at an authorized dealer and kiosk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As far as I know, you can't. Either that or they would have to call CARE, which means CARE is handling it not the retailer. At the store I work at we always receive people from Best Buy, Radio Shack, Walmart, Sam's, etc. that were referred by them to us for an exception upgrade.
If you show me proof from an AT&T source, then I will change it. I want this to be the most accurate info as possible, and thank you for your contribution.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
While I am sure that this wont be definitive enough proof for you, I am the manager of an authorized retailer (Agent) store, and we do exception upgrades all the time. It might be dependant on the market in question, and I know for a fact that National Retailers (Big Box Stores) cannot do exception upgrades. We also do not have to go through CARE to process it, we process it directly through POSII
Chris
that $5 a month insurance
how exactly does this work? i upgraded an Inspire. she ended up bulldozin me on $25 a month for 2gb data, that is going to run out before a month does it seems.. will need some behavior modification i see.
she asked me do i want insurance for $5 a month.. i said yes. seems like i've been payin insurance since the cingular 8125, thru the ATT Fuze, and into the Inspire 4g and never brought it in for claim.
now i've got this phone, and its very difficult to hold, has some kinda glass screen that was not present on the last two windows phones.. i can forsee this one takin a smash (and i've been a phone enabled pool jumper before and summer's comin)
so how does it work?
no-questions-asked-i-hit-it-with-a-hammer-on-purpose insurance?
or more like
you-dropped-it-and-it's-in-a-million-pieces-but-we-glued-it-back-together-and-found-out-you-rooted-it-so-yer-SOL?
more specifically:
i am rooted. will this ever affect insurance claim? i mean i'm not going to bring it in claiming software issues obviously.. but what if i pool jump? do i need to rice-and-hairdry just to unroot just to get insurance claim approved?
If you ever need to do a claim and it's a total loss, not a warranty claim (so you're actually paying the deductible), just say the phone was lost. There, problem solved. You dont have to return anything and they send you a new refurb device for what, $150?
wdkingery said:
how exactly does this work? i upgraded an Inspire. she ended up bulldozin me on $25 a month for 2gb data, that is going to run out before a month does it seems.. will need some behavior modification i see.
she asked me do i want insurance for $5 a month.. i said yes. seems like i've been payin insurance since the cingular 8125, thru the ATT Fuze, and into the Inspire 4g and never brought it in for claim.
now i've got this phone, and its very difficult to hold, has some kinda glass screen that was not present on the last two windows phones.. i can forsee this one takin a smash (and i've been a phone enabled pool jumper before and summer's comin)
so how does it work?
no-questions-asked-i-hit-it-with-a-hammer-on-purpose insurance?
or more like
you-dropped-it-and-it's-in-a-million-pieces-but-we-glued-it-back-together-and-found-out-you-rooted-it-so-yer-SOL?
more specifically:
i am rooted. will this ever affect insurance claim? i mean i'm not going to bring it in claiming software issues obviously.. but what if i pool jump? do i need to rice-and-hairdry just to unroot just to get insurance claim approved?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For starters, you can take your phone out of your pocket before you jump into a pool.
If that doesn't work, you can unroot the phone. It isn't any tougher than rooting, in fact, it's probably easier.
If the phone is in a condition to where they would be able to check for root, then yes, you need to make the effort to get it back in a returnable state, which is totally possible and feasible, if you want a replacement phone.
It's pretty common knowledge that rooting a phone voids your warranty, but only if you present it to them in that state can they know its been rooted.
If the phone explodes into pieces, how are they going to get it back to a state where they'd be able to discover you rooted? It would cost them more money and trouble to go through that bull**** than it would to give you a new damn phone, ya know?
Inspire 4G ¦ XDA Premium
wdkingery said:
how exactly does this work? i upgraded an Inspire. she ended up bulldozin me on $25 a month for 2gb data, that is going to run out before a month does it seems.. will need some behavior modification i see.
she asked me do i want insurance for $5 a month.. i said yes. seems like i've been payin insurance since the cingular 8125, thru the ATT Fuze, and into the Inspire 4g and never brought it in for claim.
now i've got this phone, and its very difficult to hold, has some kinda glass screen that was not present on the last two windows phones.. i can forsee this one takin a smash (and i've been a phone enabled pool jumper before and summer's comin)
so how does it work?
no-questions-asked-i-hit-it-with-a-hammer-on-purpose insurance?
or more like
you-dropped-it-and-it's-in-a-million-pieces-but-we-glued-it-back-together-and-found-out-you-rooted-it-so-yer-SOL?
more specifically:
i am rooted. will this ever affect insurance claim? i mean i'm not going to bring it in claiming software issues obviously.. but what if i pool jump? do i need to rice-and-hairdry just to unroot just to get insurance claim approved?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Honestly i wouldn't get the ATT insurance at all its overpriced and the deduct. is over priced... www.squaretrade.com FTW no questions asked including water damage. oh ATT will not fix a Watered phone. so you will be SOL on that. Oh.. in all honestly they legally can't deny your claim if you have a rooted phone.. case in point Jehot vs apple = fcc saying rooting/jailbreaking is legal and services can not be terminated for that
Hi, I'm having issues with my HTC Aria. I believe it to be an issue with the microphone, since whenever I make or receive calls, I'm able to hear the person on the other line but they are unable to hear me. The phone is still within the 1-year warranty period. After contacting the AT&T Warranty Department, they told me that they'd send me a replacement phone and to send my defective phone back. Do I need to worry about unrooting my phone first? I have read conflicting information on different forums. Thanks very much for the clarification.
moka4219 said:
Hi, I'm having issues with my HTC Aria. I believe it to be an issue with the microphone, since whenever I make or receive calls, I'm able to hear the person on the other line but they are unable to hear me. The phone is still within the 1-year warranty period. After contacting the AT&T Warranty Department, they told me that they'd send me a replacement phone and to send my defective phone back. Do I need to worry about unrooting my phone first? I have read conflicting information on different forums. Thanks very much for the clarification.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just an fyi this is the inspire 4g section. But anyways. I say its better to be safe then sorry and return your phone back stock. So I would say unroot
moka4219 said:
Hi, I'm having issues with my HTC Aria. I believe it to be an issue with the microphone, since whenever I make or receive calls, I'm able to hear the person on the other line but they are unable to hear me. The phone is still within the 1-year warranty period. After contacting the AT&T Warranty Department, they told me that they'd send me a replacement phone and to send my defective phone back. Do I need to worry about unrooting my phone first? I have read conflicting information on different forums. Thanks very much for the clarification.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try the speaker phone. Can people on the other end hear you then?
OK guys this is not an ATT support forum. They have their own site.
Thread closed

[Q] AT&T Just screwed me over

Welp, AT&T reps [two of them] that I called in to for support assured my I would keep my grandfathered data plan [unlimited from alltel].
One week after this, I was patiently waiting for a text and call [i requested both] to confirm or deny this having been modified on my account because "upgrading" from a 3g phone that already was from AT&T wouldn't allow me to keep my unlimited data in the system.
So i called, of course the base support cant actually do anything [no offense to them, I just think its pointless to call them support when they can't do anything anyways] and after about twenty minutes of complaining I was talking to a floor rep or something like that who informed me my case to have my features fixed had been denied, although marked as completed AND marked that I had been notified...
So two support reps didn't know what they were promising [i do mean promising] and this guy gives me these options.
1)Pick the data plan you wish and we'll change it to that before your next bill comes around.
2)Go to a full new contract with us.
or, 3)Return your phone and the other one [galaxy S 2] and you will get your old features back on the other phones.
----------------------------------------------
Now, My thought is... I traded in my Xperia x10, and blackberry 9300 [this sucks so bad..], Is there some way I can get through past this? I wondered what would happen if they cant manage to track down my two phones [the target i traded these in at i'm sure will lose them sometime in the next 7 days].
Also, My first One X had the bottom of the screen peeling off of it. I got a replacement, but the lady there in target said that they got two of them which makes me wonder how many people got 2x One X's because of sorting/counting mistakes.
Yeah, AT&T data management sucks.
I'm on the 2GB plan for $25 because that's the only thing that is discounted with a corporate discount.
If i were to upgrade to the 3GB for $30, it doesn't qualify any discount. Neither does the unlimited plan.
It makes no sense. Why would they not want me to pay more?
It sucks that you got screwed but AT&T throttles you even with an unlimited plan (5GB for LTE) so 3GB isn't that bad.
TKTAB911 said:
Welp, AT&T reps [two of them] that I called in to for support assured my I would keep my grandfathered data plan [unlimited from alltel].
One week after this, I was patiently waiting for a text and call [i requested both] to confirm or deny this having been modified on my account because "upgrading" from a 3g phone that already was from AT&T wouldn't allow me to keep my unlimited data in the system.
So i called, of course the base support cant actually do anything [no offense to them, I just think its pointless to call them support when they can't do anything anyways] and after about twenty minutes of complaining I was talking to a floor rep or something like that who informed me my case to have my features fixed had been denied, although marked as completed AND marked that I had been notified...
So two support reps didn't know what they were promising [i do mean promising] and this guy gives me these options.
1)Pick the data plan you wish and we'll change it to that before your next bill comes around.
2)Go to a full new contract with us.
or, 3)Return your phone and the other one [galaxy S 2] and you will get your old features back on the other phones.
----------------------------------------------
Now, My thought is... I traded in my Xperia x10, and blackberry 9300 [this sucks so bad..], Is there some way I can get through past this? I wondered what would happen if they cant manage to track down my two phones [the target i traded these in at i'm sure will lose them sometime in the next 7 days].
Also, My first One X had the bottom of the screen peeling off of it. I got a replacement, but the lady there in target said that they got two of them which makes me wonder how many people got 2x One X's because of sorting/counting mistakes.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Honestly i never had this problem before, there has been many times when a rep had changed my plan by "accident" i usually just call in and they get an override from the supervisor and i'm good to go..
karan1203 said:
Yeah, AT&T data management sucks.
I'm on the 2GB plan for $25 because that's the only thing that is discounted with a corporate discount.
If i were to upgrade to the 3GB for $30, it doesn't qualify any discount. Neither does the unlimited plan.
It makes no sense. Why would they not want me to pay more?
It sucks that you got screwed but AT&T throttles you even with an unlimited plan (5GB for LTE) so 3GB isn't that bad.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got on an unlimited lte +1500 messages for $29.00 on my plan . Switched from an iPhone 4 and did it online
Sent from my HTC One X using Tapatalk 2
Maybe its just my situation;
Family plan from Alltel.
2 lines, "family choice" plan.
Pretty much blows, I'd have no problem paying twice that [20$ = Unlimited atm] To keep unlimited on this phone :b Ohwell. So much for "upgrading". . .
Besides, I dont think I get throttled... I erm, Hardly get 2 bars anywhere around my house anyways.
Call and tell them you want to know what your cancellation fee is. They'll send you to the retention team. They'll want to know why you want to cancel. Tell them two reps lied to you about the unlimited data carrying over and you're going to switch to Verizon because you can get more data for the same price (VZN is doing their double data for the same price deal). They'll most likely let you keep your unlimited data.
It worked for me to get a upgrade to the One X a year early.
OOOOH i'll try that tomorrow
Thanks ahead of time if it works!!

T-Mobile Legacy Data Warning

Heads up to anyone with T-Mobile US and has a legacy 10GB data plan (such as the myFavs plan with the data addition). T-Mobile just denied that I ever had that plan and that they ever offered it, claiming they never offered 10GB before late 2011. This is absolutely untrue and I've had this plan since my Blackberry Curve 8230 years ago.
They also claim that they never offered free tethering/hotspot even though they always had free tethering until the Sensation ICS upgrade and newer. This is the first time I actually used any more than 5GB in a loooooong so I never actually noticed, but anyone who has a legacy 10GB plan should call to make sure it's still there, cause they changed mine.
TL;DR Legacy 10GB data plans might have been changed to 5GB and T-Mobile will deny you ever had it.
Can't you just reprint an old bill? Do you keep any on file?
sshede said:
Heads up to anyone with T-Mobile US and has a legacy 10GB data plan (such as the myFavs plan with the data addition). T-Mobile just denied that I ever had that plan and that they ever offered it, claiming they never offered 10GB before late 2011. This is absolutely untrue and I've had this plan since my Blackberry Curve 8230 years ago.
They also claim that they never offered free tethering/hotspot even though they always had free tethering until the Sensation ICS upgrade and newer. This is the first time I actually used any more than 5GB in a loooooong so I never actually noticed, but anyone who has a legacy 10GB plan should call to make sure it's still there, cause they changed mine.
TL;DR Legacy 10GB data plans might have been changed to 5GB and T-Mobile will deny you ever had it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This sounds very much like what just happened on my wife's phone yesterday. All of a sudden she got a "you have no data plan" message when trying to browse the web. We call up T-Mobile and they say she's never had a data plan. Finally she says they can add the $35 5GB plan to replace the $34.99 plan she used to have. Thing is, we both had the $20 Unlimited plan from a couple of years ago. Then we're offered the $20 2GB plan. For about half an hour I'm arguing with them about it before asking to talk to a supervisor. I'm told the supervisor is busy, but they'll call me in half an hour to an hour.
6 hours later when I get home and there's been no call, I call them again. This guy is far more helpful and understands why I'm not happy about their screwup causing me to go from $20 unlimited to $20 2GB. After a few minutes he determines he can't add back that grandfathered plan and transfers me to Customer Loyalty. About a minute later he's determined somebody there screwed up, apologizes, and get the $20 MyTouch Unlimited Web plan put back on.
Short version: T-Mobile screwed up, removed a grandfathered unlimited data plan, said they couldn't re-add it, and offered to add a limited plan for the same price. Called back, talked to Customer Loyalty dept and they fixed it.
Tangent_ said:
This sounds very much like what just happened on my wife's phone yesterday. All of a sudden she got a "you have no data plan" message when trying to browse the web. We call up T-Mobile and they say she's never had a data plan. Finally she says they can add the $35 5GB plan to replace the $34.99 plan she used to have. Thing is, we both had the $20 Unlimited plan from a couple of years ago. Then we're offered the $20 2GB plan. For about half an hour I'm arguing with them about it before asking to talk to a supervisor. I'm told the supervisor is busy, but they'll call me in half an hour to an hour.
6 hours later when I get home and there's been no call, I call them again. This guy is far more helpful and understands why I'm not happy about their screwup causing me to go from $20 unlimited to $20 2GB. After a few minutes he determines he can't add back that grandfathered plan and transfers me to Customer Loyalty. About a minute later he's determined somebody there screwed up, apologizes, and get the $20 MyTouch Unlimited Web plan put back on.
Short version: T-Mobile screwed up, removed a grandfathered unlimited data plan, said they couldn't re-add it, and offered to add a limited plan for the same price. Called back, talked to Customer Loyalty dept and they fixed it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exact thing happened me except they didnt fix a thing for me ... Im tired of T-Mobile USA's Bull im switching as soon a my Contract ends.
Tangent_ said:
This sounds very much like what just happened on my wife's phone yesterday. All of a sudden she got a "you have no data plan" message when trying to browse the web. We call up T-Mobile and they say she's never had a data plan. Finally she says they can add the $35 5GB plan to replace the $34.99 plan she used to have. Thing is, we both had the $20 Unlimited plan from a couple of years ago. Then we're offered the $20 2GB plan. For about half an hour I'm arguing with them about it before asking to talk to a supervisor. I'm told the supervisor is busy, but they'll call me in half an hour to an hour.
6 hours later when I get home and there's been no call, I call them again. This guy is far more helpful and understands why I'm not happy about their screwup causing me to go from $20 unlimited to $20 2GB. After a few minutes he determines he can't add back that grandfathered plan and transfers me to Customer Loyalty. About a minute later he's determined somebody there screwed up, apologizes, and get the $20 MyTouch Unlimited Web plan put back on.
Short version: T-Mobile screwed up, removed a grandfathered unlimited data plan, said they couldn't re-add it, and offered to add a limited plan for the same price. Called back, talked to Customer Loyalty dept and they fixed it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When I read stuff like this... Even though they helped you... We shouldn't have to go through this crap. It makes me want to call them and yell at them. XD I would be yelling at innocent people though, not those who are responsible.
Daiskei said:
When I read stuff like this... Even though they helped you... We shouldn't have to go through this crap. It makes me want to call them and yell at them. XD I would be yelling at innocent people though, not those who are responsible.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just had a bout of issues relating to T-Mobile's rebate system recently. I was going to link the forum post I made about it, but apparently T-Mobile has since removed it... I find that the best results occur when you explain your situation on their forums. Assuming you are in the right, a T-Mobile rep will contact you within about 24 hours and propose decent solutions to keep your business (In my case, they honored a rebate that I was told I qualified for before purchasing a new device). Anything short of this doesn't seem to yield any results (spent over 12 hours in 6 calls to T-mobile and got no where).
Either way, it shouldn't be necessary to argue for hours with their customer service and retentions department to keep your plan or to obtain rebates you were told you qualified for. Their service has gone downhill over the last 3-4 years, but there is simply no good alternative at a price anywhere close to what I am paying now. The best I can hope for is that they can turn around their customer service and once again be the best in the business (they definitely were 5-6 years ago IMHO).
I'm T-Mobile and supposedly I have free tethering so they told me before. Now you have me concerned because not only that I also supposedly have the 10GB data plan. For two devices x my sensation and husbands blackberry I pay 207.00 a month. With unlimited talk and text which I think is extremely high even with my 20.00 equipment charge. It just does not add up...but now I'm concerned hearing you say what they told you regarding tethering and data. I will call them and see if they too changed my plan...I will be furious if they did! 207.00 is just too high! I need to really look into what I'm being charged for! Thank you for bringing this to our attention !
Sent from my HTC Sensation 4G using xda premium
Interesting stories. Sorry to hear about everyone's issues. I called them today to have my plan issues fixed and they wouldn't budge. I asked them what it would cost for early termination - get this, somehow I'm not on contract. Even though I got a two year extension January 2011, I am somehow contract free. Gave Sprint my Sensation for 105 USD and bought a GNex today. It's been fun.
Yeah!!! But sprints service totally sucks.
Sent from my HTC Sensation 4G with Beats Audio using xda app-developers app
I'll take 500kbits EVDO and LTE in October to December over 5mbits of lies every month. Plus the GNex is a brilliant device. Android 4.1 is nice too, although Project Butter is really smooth, there's still a stutter from time to time.
Good luck everyone I know that started out with sprite eventually flashed their phone to cricket...
Sent from my HTC Sensation 4G with Beats Audio using xda app-developers app

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