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Upgrading on a Family Account

Hey guys,
I'm on ATT, and I was thinking about picking up an SGS2 soon. I was wondering, since my folks never use their upgrades (in a family account of 4), is it possible to upgrade their line, but never use the new sim card and instead use the phone for myself? Has anyone tried this that could possibly share their experience, and give a quick how-to?
Thanks.

If you go into the att store and just say you want to use their upgrade on your line they will do it no problem. As long as you are the primary account holder.
If you are doing it third party, or online you can upgrade their line with the new phone (activate required data plan if applicable) then put your sim card in the phone. You can deactivate the data plan on the other line whenever you want. You will need to call att to have them change your data from 3G to Faux G, but you will keep the same plan (cost and limit, even unlimited), it you won't get data on the GS II with the "3G" data provision.
I just went through this recently.
P.S. Do yourself a favor and get the original Galaxy S II (i777) instead of the skyrocket ... you'll thank me later.
Sent from my Galaxy S II (i777)

I believe number is attached to sim. Just pop your sim in and good to go. Just ask ATT, its not illegal to switch phones
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA App

quarlow said:
If you go into the att store and just say you want to use their upgrade on your line they will do it no problem. As long as you are the primary account holder.
If you are doing it third party, or online you can upgrade their line with the new phone (activate required data plan if applicable) then put your sim card in the phone. You can deactivate the data plan on the other line whenever you want. You will need to call att to have them change your data from 3G to Faux G, but you will keep the same plan (cost and limit, even unlimited), it you won't get data on the GS II with the "3G" data provision.
I just went through this recently.
P.S. Do yourself a favor and get the original Galaxy S II (i777) instead of the skyrocket ... you'll thank me later.
Sent from my Galaxy S II (i777)
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Thanks so much! And I was definitely going for the i777; dev support is flourishing there.
"You will need to call att to have them change your data from 3G to Faux G, but you will keep the same plan (cost and limit, even unlimited), it you won't get data on the GS II with the "3G" data provision."
I'm not sure what you mean here. So when I put MY sim into the SGS 2, I should call att about my line, and have them change whatever you said?
I have an unlimited data plan - I was planning on just taking the newly bought SGS2 to the ATT store and have them transfer my unlimited plan to it. Would this work? What other options do I have to keep my unlimited plan?

Yeah they can do it in store, or call. Just tell them you got a sgs II and the data doesn't work, because it won't. They have to "provision" your line for 4G/HSPA+ data instead of 3G. You can still keep unlimited for $30. It shows up on your bill differently, you will see two pro-rated data plans with different names, but it will still total $30.
It will be easiest in store, as you can verify it works before you leave, but the phone reps can do it too.
Sent from my Galaxy S II (i777)

Just tell them you want to cross-upgrade. They will set it all up for you. If you do it from a retailer (Costco, Bestbuy...), they will set up the upgraded line and then you will call AT&T after to cancel the data plan associated with the upgrade and switch the IMEI to your line - since they need to change the data plan to the 4g variant.
When you put your current sim in the SGSII, network will work but data won't. That's because the data plan on the Captivate isn't compatible with the SGSII. I found that out last week
Careful though as some places like Amazon require you to sign a contract with them as well stating that if you cancel any part of the plan or use the phone on another line, they hit you with early term fees (I think it's just Amazon actually).
Oh yeah, and the SGSII is an awesome phone!

qwertyaas said:
Just tell them you want to cross-upgrade. They will set it all up for you. If you do it from a retailer (Costco, Bestbuy...), they will set up the upgraded line and then you will call AT&T after to cancel the data plan associated with the upgrade and switch the IMEI to your line - since they need to change the data plan to the 4g variant.
When you put your current sim in the SGSII, network will work but data won't. That's because the data plan on the Captivate isn't compatible with the SGSII. I found that out last week
Careful though as some places like Amazon require you to sign a contract with them as well stating that if you cancel any part of the plan or use the phone on another line, they hit you with early term fees (I think it's just Amazon actually).
Oh yeah, and the SGSII is an awesome phone!
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Yeah I figure Amazon and Wirefly are off limits for this. They require the line to stay with the data plan for 3-6 months, depending on the retailer.
Thanks for your help!

Grea thread ! Some more explanation..please
Ok. I am not fully understanding this great switcheroo.
Wont you still have the other non-SGSII still active and paying for it in the family plan.
Can someone please explain how this goes step-by-step? I mean what if I am not yet eligible for an upgrade, can I just add a SGSII line this way, and turn off the other phone>>>??
Step-by-step.......puhlesaseeeeee!
EDIT: Hmmmmmmmmmm......after re-reading it looks it means you have to be eligible for an upgrade to do this? So since I do not have an upgrade option I am just getting excited for nothing ????

You can add a line for a new phone, such as SGS II, and then use that phone for your line. But, you cannot cancel your existing line until the contract ends, which would be ~3 months after you are eligible for an upgrade. You can cancel the dataplan you are forced to add if you add another line, but you are stuck paying $9.99 + taxes and fees, a month for that line for 24 months. So it adds up costing $250+ over the next 2 years.
You can call and try to talk your way into a early upgrade. If you are nice, and mention considering ending your service they may let you upgrade early for new price plus $30. Several others have said that worked for them. But, it may depend on how close you are to an upgrade. If you got a new phone 6 months ago you may be stuck for a while.
Sent from my Galaxy S II (i777)

quarlow said:
You can add a line for a new phone, such as SGS II, and then use that phone for your line. But, you cannot cancel your existing line until the contract ends, which would be ~3 months after you are eligible for an upgrade. You can cancel the dataplan you are forced to add if you add another line, but you are stuck paying $9.99 + taxes and fees, a month for that line for 24 months. So it adds up costing $250+ over the next 2 years.
You can call and try to talk your way into a early upgrade. If you are nice, and mention considering ending your service they may let you upgrade early for new price plus $30. Several others have said that worked for them. But, it may depend on how close you are to an upgrade. If you got a new phone 6 months ago you may be stuck for a while.
Sent from my Galaxy S II (i777)
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Thanks quarlow..........I hit the button !

chappatti said:
Thanks quarlow..........I hit the button !
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YW
I hope you find a way to get your new phone.
Sent from my Galaxy S II (i777)

I did this with an iPhone 4S (my upgrade's not up until this spring, the contract outlasted my patience with the Samsuck Craptivate). If you go to a CORPORATE AT&T store, it's no big deal to do. The lady there handled the whole thing for me and I was up and running in no time...

Alright, so I went ahead and got the SGS 2 from Radioshack because they had a 50 dollar deal for Black Friday. I looked at the receipt though, and it says that "If the Device and its wireless service agreement are not continuously in service for 90 days after the original purchase date and the Device is not returned to the Retailer, I agree that the Retailer may charge my credit card an unreturned merchandise fee equal to the Device's Non Activated Price minus the activated price I paid".
I bought it with no sim card for my mom's line. I have the primary line, and I was wondering if it's still okay for my to just insert my sim in the phone to use (would I be charged the above stated fee?). The phone hasn't had any sim card put it in yet at all. Is there any way to get around this? Does anyone have any experience with upgrading like this through Radioshack?
EDIT: Just talked to an ATT rep and he told me that I would not incur any fees/charges for switching equipment, and proceeded to do so for me. I'm still sort of anxious though, don't want to be charged a ridiculous amount for doing this. I saved the chat as a PDF (talked to an online rep) just in case. Anyone want to chime in with an opinion of what I should do?

ri3tn said:
Alright, so I went ahead and got the SGS 2 from Radioshack because they had a 50 dollar deal for Black Friday. I looked at the receipt though, and it says that "If the Device and its wireless service agreement are not continuously in service for 90 days after the original purchase date and the Device is not returned to the Retailer, I agree that the Retailer may charge my credit card an unreturned merchandise fee equal to the Device's Non Activated Price minus the activated price I paid".
I bought it with no sim card for my mom's line. I have the primary line, and I was wondering if it's still okay for my to just insert my sim in the phone to use (would I be charged the above stated fee?). The phone hasn't had any sim card put it in yet at all. Is there any way to get around this? Does anyone have any experience with upgrading like this through Radioshack?
EDIT: Just talked to an ATT rep and he told me that I would not incur any fees/charges for switching equipment, and proceeded to do so for me. I'm still sort of anxious though, don't want to be charged a ridiculous amount for doing this. I saved the chat as a PDF (talked to an online rep) just in case. Anyone want to chime in with an opinion of what I should do?
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They are just trying to prevent you from using your upgrade to get a new phone, then immediately terminating the contract and selling the phone. As long as you are actually using it on your plan, you're all good.

apbthe3 said:
They are just trying to prevent you from using your upgrade to get a new phone, then immediately terminating the contract and selling the phone. As long as you are actually using it on your plan, you're all good.
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Careful, some stores (Amazon) will charge you an early term fee if you move the phone to another line within 6 months.

[Q]Best Way to Upgrade to GS3 While Keeping Unlimited?

I thought of a few ways to upgrade while keeping unlimited data.
There was..
Add a new line, with the GS3, give that phone to the unlimited data, and then put a basic phone on that line so it doesn't require the data fees...
There's buy a used cracked screen on eBay, replace the cracked screen with a replacement on eBay..
Any ideas anyone?

I would suggest against buying any used phone, especially for verizon phones, only because of the risk that if the person selling it has any remaining balance on that account that the phone was tied to, it would be useless for you and by law Verizon will be unable to add it to your phone line. If you can confirm that it in fact has no left over balance, then this is probably the best way to go.
Better off going with the plan of adding a line with a basic phone and switching the two numbers, but that will cost you another 40$ every bill and verizon will probably still make you pay an arm and a leg for the SGS III essentially at full retail price if you really want to keep that unlimited data plan. So you might as well just pay full price for the phone and then just switch your number to it in order to keep the unlimited data plan.
Hope this helps.

Martakia said:
Better off going with the plan of adding a line with a basic phone and switching the two numbers, but that will cost you another 40$ every bill and verizon will probably still make you pay an arm and a leg for the SGS III essentially at full retail price if you really want to keep that unlimited data plan. So you might as well just pay full price for the phone and then just switch your number to it in order to keep the unlimited data plan.
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If I get the GS3 on the extra line and I switch a basic phone onto it, wouldn't it be just 10 dollars a month?

That's basically what I did to keep my unlimited data. Added a line for the GS3, switched it to my line with unlimited data and activated a basic phone I had lying around onto the new line.

weblexa said:
That's basically what I did to keep my unlimited data. Added a line for the GS3, switched it to my line with unlimited data and activated a basic phone I had lying around onto the new line.
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How much a month is it for that line? 10 dollars?

Well I have 2 lines that had an upgrade on the same day. Mine had unlimited data, and the other one was my moms who had no data at all. So what we did was use my upgrade to upgrade her line to a sgs3 with 2gb of data a month , then put that phone on my line and put the basic phone back on her line. Then she upgraded with her updrage to a sgs3 for herself
Sent from my Verizon Galaxy S3

weblexa said:
That's basically what I did to keep my unlimited data. Added a line for the GS3, switched it to my line with unlimited data and activated a basic phone I had lying around onto the new line.
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This is what I did as well. Added $10/month to my bill.

Martakia said:
I would suggest against buying any used phone, especially for verizon phones, only because of the risk that if the person selling it has any remaining balance on that account that the phone was tied to, it would be useless for you and by law Verizon will be unable to add it to your phone line. If you can confirm that it in fact has no left over balance, then this is probably the best way to go.
Better off going with the plan of adding a line with a basic phone and switching the two numbers, but that will cost you another 40$ every bill and verizon will probably still make you pay an arm and a leg for the SGS III essentially at full retail price if you really want to keep that unlimited data plan. So you might as well just pay full price for the phone and then just switch your number to it in order to keep the unlimited data plan.
Hope this helps.
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Click to collapse
I have a question about this. Does the new use of a SIM card change what you're saying about left over fees owed to Verizon? If a person were to buy a phone from Ebay and put their own SIM in would that be Ok even if the original owner owed money on their SIM?

All I did was order online. I originally went into the store to upgrade, but they told me I had to get a new data plan. I went home and ordered the GS3 online that night and it let me keep my unlimited plan. They probably fixed that glitch by now though.

pcdisme said:
I have a question about this. Does the new use of a SIM card change what you're saying about left over fees owed to Verizon? If a person were to buy a phone from Ebay and put their own SIM in would that be Ok even if the original owner owed money on their SIM?
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With the new SIM card system that Verizon has started to use, I am not quite sure about that, but when reading past experiences, and one that my cousin had to go through, they all bought used phones from online sites like ebay and amazon, but ended up being unable to apply them to their own plans because of a check that was done on the phone's background. (I know there is a way to do this yourself, but you pretty much have to have the phone in your possession in order to do so.)
When my family had to add a new line to our family plan for my little brother, a basic phone, verizon wanted to charge us $40, and instead we got him a smartphone which was only $30. Verizon is really pushing smartphones, primarily android devices and especially the SGS3. Essentially what they tried to sell us, but we told them no lol.

Martakia said:
With the new SIM card system that Verizon has started to use, I am not quite sure about that, but when reading past experiences, and one that my cousin had to go through, they all bought used phones from online sites like ebay and amazon, but ended up being unable to apply them to their own plans because of a check that was done on the phone's background. (I know there is a way to do this yourself, but you pretty much have to have the phone in your possession in order to do so.)
When my family had to add a new line to our family plan for my little brother, a basic phone, verizon wanted to charge us $40, and instead we got him a smartphone which was only $30. Verizon is really pushing smartphones, primarily android devices and especially the SGS3. Essentially what they tried to sell us, but we told them no lol.
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I got my SGS3 from someone that had left over fees and it didn't effect me at all. I think the SIM card system has made this a thing of the past.

MrSmith317 said:
I got my SGS3 from someone that had left over fees and it didn't effect me at all. I think the SIM card system has made this a thing of the past.
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Awesome , then i guess the op is good to go and buy the one off ebay and replace the screen.

Thanks for all the input guys! Much appreciated.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda app-developers app

Dude, all u have to do is calling Verizon & give them the imei or serial, they will tell u if the fone legit. Bought mine used but looks like new.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda app-developers app

quattr0 said:
Dude, all u have to do is calling Verizon & give them the imei or serial, they will tell u if the fone legit. Bought mine used but looks like new.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda app-developers app
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yep or you can use one of the following online service to check the IMEI/MEID, Verizon's is the more accurate one, if it says call customer service then the IMEI is bad:
http://www.verizonwireless.com/b2c/estore/certifieddevice/cd
http://www.checkesnfree.com/

I upgraded a flip phone line on my plan to the SG3 and gave it 2gb data temporarily. I then had them switch the SG3 to my number, re-enable the flip phone on the upgraded line, and then cancel the 2gb data plan, reverting it back to $10 nondata plan. Verizon will not charge for a data plan that is changed within 24 hours. Worked for me anyhow, but did have to pay the $30 upgrade fee.

Martakia said:
With the new SIM card system that Verizon has started to use, I am not quite sure about that, but when reading past experiences, and one that my cousin had to go through, they all bought used phones from online sites like ebay and amazon, but ended up being unable to apply them to their own plans because of a check that was done on the phone's background. (I know there is a way to do this yourself, but you pretty much have to have the phone in your possession in order to do so.)
When my family had to add a new line to our family plan for my little brother, a basic phone, verizon wanted to charge us $40, and instead we got him a smartphone which was only $30. Verizon is really pushing smartphones, primarily android devices and especially the SGS3. Essentially what they tried to sell us, but we told them no lol.
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Yeah.....
I don't think so.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk 2

Kept my Unlimted Data

Upgraded my S3 today to a S4 and I was still able to keep my Unlimited Data, thanks to the clever workings of the rep at Costco.
Since I still have a regular line on my account, he was able to do some switching around with the lines and keep my data plan intact
According to him Costco does what they can do to keep the customer happy.
BestBuy and Verizon could not do anything for me.

Pico said:
Upgraded my S3 today to a S4 and I was still able to keep my Unlimited Data, thanks to the clever workings of the rep at Costco.
Since I still have a regular line on my account, he was able to do some switching around with the lines and keep my data plan intact
According to him Costco does what they can do to keep the customer happy.
BestBuy and Verizon could not do anything for me.
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Just curious, did you have more than one line to begin with, and were you still in contract (if so, how long was left)? When upgrading time comes around I don't want to lose my unlimited either.

That makes sense... Costco is a retailer, so if they want to sell you the device @ a discounted price, they can... and from the sounds of things, WILL. Costco will do anything for members and this sounds like a rad deal!
You'll never get that kind of deal from VZ directly. I have unlimited too and bought my S3 of ebay to avoid losing my data.

Shhhh!!! And its very possible to do this directly through Verizon if you take the self service route.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk

MartyMacGyver said:
Just curious, did you have more than one line to begin with, and were you still in contract (if so, how long was left)? When upgrading time comes around I don't want to lose my unlimited either.
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I have 2 data lines and one non data (regular phone) on my account, that is how costco was able to keep my data intact. without the reg line I dont think they would of been able to keep the data unlimited.
Not sure how much time I had on my contract

So I have an none smart phone on my plan that is eligible for an upgrade. If I upgrade my phone with that to keep unlimited data do I have to keep the none smart phone on my data plan and pay the extra $9. Our can I take it off after I upgrade mine with it to keep unlimited.
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verizon and unlimited data
mosfet356 said:
So I have an none smart phone on my plan that is eligible for an upgrade. If I upgrade my phone with that to keep unlimited data do I have to keep the none smart phone on my data plan and pay the extra $9. Our can I take it off after I upgrade mine with it to keep unlimited.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
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If you renew your contract in any way shape or form you will lose your unlimited data.
An upgrade means you can sign a contract to get a phone subsidized. An upgrade is not a courtesy or a freebie, the word is misleading. An upgrade eligibility simply means Verizon or whatever carrier will let you sign a contract to get a phone on subsidy. Use it and the unlimited goes away.
The only way to maintain unlimited data is to not alter your contracted terms. If you sign a new contract it'll go bye bye.
The only ways to get a new phone without losing your unlimited data is to acquire a phone without putting your line with unlimited in contract. There are many ways to do this, none of which I spell out in detail.
If you search ebay you can purchase unlimited data for around $150-200 off people selling it.

It greatly depends on where you go. I recently found a great third party Verizon retailer with a system which still allows people to keep unlimited data. I believe it has to do with the insurance they go through. Corporate and Best Buy go through assurion which absolutely cannot in any shape or form allow you to keep unlimited data.
Other systems do have workarounds and some people are willing to oblige. Just recently I let my brother use my upgrade (my line is unlimited, his is tiered) but every location I asked said it was impossible for him to take my upgrade and let me keep my unlimited data. Well, here I am now still rocking unlimited data with a 2 year contract extension.
The third party location I found was great to us and even offered to help my mom keep unlimited data using a subsidized upgrade using a "musical phones" method.
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makaveliq3 said:
If you renew your contract in any way shape or form you will lose your unlimited data.
An upgrade means you can sign a contract to get a phone subsidized. An upgrade is not a courtesy or a freebie, the word is misleading. An upgrade eligibility simply means Verizon or whatever carrier will let you sign a contract to get a phone on subsidy. Use it and the unlimited goes away.
The only way to maintain unlimited data is to not alter your contracted terms. If you sign a new contract it'll go bye bye.
The only ways to get a new phone without losing your unlimited data is to acquire a phone without putting your line with unlimited in contract. There are many ways to do this, none of which I spell out in detail.
If you search ebay you can purchase unlimited data for around $150-200 off people selling it.
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That's simply not true as long as you don't take the upgrade on the number that has the unlimited data you can upgrade on any of the others that don't and it does not affect the unlimited line at all

scottguest11 said:
That's simply not true as long as you don't take the upgrade on the number that has the unlimited data you can upgrade on any of the others that don't and it does not affect the unlimited line at all
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The most basic way, of which I have personally used myself, is to have a basic phone attached to your [insert service provider here] service contract. Whenever you have an upgrade for your smartphone line, swap it to the basic phone, then upgrade through that "dumb" phone. Once you receive the new smartphone, activate it on your smartphone account, and reactivate the basic phone on its original line. Voila.
Edit: I am sure there are other methods which may be more effective (not have to pay for a secondary basic phone), however this one has worked for me (and others). Your call as to how you will proceed...

Don't forget the new $30 upgrade fee on Verizon.
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scottguest11 said:
That's simply not true as long as you don't take the upgrade on the number that has the unlimited data you can upgrade on any of the others that don't and it does not affect the unlimited line at all
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You're 100% correct!

scottguest11 said:
That's simply not true as long as you don't take the upgrade on the number that has the unlimited data you can upgrade on any of the others that don't and it does not affect the unlimited line at all
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Correct. I went into detail with a manager at a VZ store once and he told me you can change anything on your account, like minutes or text, which will not affect your unlimited data. Once you upgrade your phone and get that subsidized price, you lose the data and go on a new 'share everything' package.
You can, however, transfer an account/number to someone and they'll keep unlimited data... so if you have an extra line on your account with unlimited data, you can sign a release of liability over to that person and they will have the line/account exactly as it was on your account, because you're just moving the line from one owner to another. I did this in June with my ex.
Maybe that's what the people on eBay are doing... it's shifty and I'd try to avoid it, though.

This can also work through verizon.
Just talked to a clerk online and told her exactly what I wanted to do and she helped me through the whole process. All you need to do is switch your upgrade to another line with data, renew their contract by buying the phone, from there you can either chose pick up phone in-store or have them ship it to you. Once you get it just activate the phone on your line and your good to go.

scottguest11 said:
That's simply not true as long as you don't take the upgrade on the number that has the unlimited data you can upgrade on any of the others that don't and it does not affect the unlimited line at all
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I can attest to this. Just upgraded my wifes phone today. I have unlimited data and she does not. We went to the Verizon store and they kept the plan the same.

What we did was use the upgrade on another line and then just swap the sim cards when we got home and it worked fine.

I used the upgrade on a dumb phone on my account. When I get the S4 Can I just put my SIM card in it and activate it without having to call Verizon again?

drake90001 said:
What we did was use the upgrade on another line and then just swap the sim cards when we got home and it worked fine.
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Verizon has sim cards?
Sent from my SPH-L710 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

This wouldn't really make sense to someone who doesn't already have a spare data line.. Regardless your still paying for 2 lines, if you cancel there is a hefty fee that goes with it.. If you don't already have a spare data line itd be a better idea just to buy a phone at retail price.. Wouldn't it?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

Frostacious said:
Verizon has sim cards?
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4g phones do.
And we have separate lines because we're on a family plan.

Another Unlimited Data Question

Broke my S3, and would like to upgrade to the Moto X. Unfortunately, I have the unlimited data upgrade. Our family plan has 5 lines. 1 unlimited smart, 1 tiered smart, and 3 dumb phones. I've searched and heard NUMEROUS stories on how to keep unlimited data, and read comments from people about how none of those work. I figured the XDA folks may be a bit more knowledgeable than some other forums, so I'm trying my hand here. I've heard a few different ways to do it:
1. Transfer my upgrade through myverizon to a dumb line and then upgrade. (Verizon alone has given me about 4 different answers on if this would void my UDP)
2. Find a retailer that would work things around and keep my UDP. (Found a guy, verizonchris, on a different site that said he could do this for me most likely, but he needs my billing password. Naturally, Im reluctant to give it out)
3. Transfer upgrade on myverizon, go to a store and get a upgrade voucher for motomaker, then upgrade through motomaker and it will keep my UDP.
I've heard of some others, as I'm sure you guys have, and am really just looking for some sort of verification for this from some smart peeps!
(Sidenote, I'm also going to claim the S3 on Asurion. Does anyone know what Asurion is giving people for broken vzw S3's? Heard a few different things, maybe an upgrade through that would be possible?)
Thanks!

blueice5249 said:
Broke my S3, and would like to upgrade to the Moto X. Unfortunately, I have the unlimited data upgrade. Our family plan has 5 lines. 1 unlimited smart, 1 tiered smart, and 3 dumb phones. I've searched and heard NUMEROUS stories on how to keep unlimited data, and read comments from people about how none of those work. I figured the XDA folks may be a bit more knowledgeable than some other forums, so I'm trying my hand here. I've heard a few different ways to do it:
1. Transfer my upgrade through myverizon to a dumb line and then upgrade. (Verizon alone has given me about 4 different answers on if this would void my UDP)
2. Find a retailer that would work things around and keep my UDP. (Found a guy, verizonchris, on a different site that said he could do this for me most likely, but he needs my billing password. Naturally, Im reluctant to give it out)
3. Transfer upgrade on myverizon, go to a store and get a upgrade voucher for motomaker, then upgrade through motomaker and it will keep my UDP.
Thanks!
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4. Buy the Moto X outright and pop your SIM in.

Jacquestrapp said:
4. Buy the Moto X outright and pop your SIM in.
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Thanks, trying to avoid that.

Sounds like you may be overthinking this, or something has changed that I'm not aware of.
You can't do anything with the upgrade available on your unlimited line. If you do, this will most likely reset your line to tiered data.
The upgrade would need to be on the dumb phone line.
You would upgrade that dumb phone's line to the phone you want.
When the phone comes, call up Verizon and activate the new phone on your line.
Double check with Verizon that the data plan will not activate on the dumb phone's line.
Enjoy your new phone with unlimited data! Too bad the person who uses that dumb phone won't have an upgrade for another couple years.

If other lines on the account have upgrades available all you will need to do is update using one of the other updates. The line yoy used for the upgrade will now have a 2gb plan but you don't activate with that line. Just put your SIM in and you will still have your UNLIMITED DATA. Hope this helped.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda app-developers app

MetalMan2 said:
You can't do anything with the upgrade available on your unlimited line. If you do, this will most likely reset your line to tiered data.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The 'new every two' was discontinued 2 years ago. The reason you get a new subsidized phone price is because you're re-entering into a contract with verizon... so it's like it's a new contract/line. You don't have credits and there's nothing to transfer, but if your contract is up, you can get the 'new' price. Unless you have unlimited data... you do that and they'll move you to a 'share everything' plan.
I've been told Costco will generally eat the cost of the phone, just to sell you one at the 'new' price and get the credit for your business. You keep the unlimited data and Verizon thinks you paid full retail. I can't confirm that plan will work for you, but many here have said that's worked for them.
Personally, I'm in the EDGE program. Pay $16-30/month more for a new device, keep my unlimited data and every 12 months, get to pick a new device. Yes, you're paying $200-360 for the phone, but A- that's not much more than the 'new' price', B- you get to keep unlimited data, C- you get a new phone every 1 year, rather than 2 years with re-entering a contract and D- you were probably going to pay that much for a phone off eBay anyway if you have unlimited data. Dunno if that makes sense for someone with so many lines, but if you keep it to 1-2 lines and really need that data (like I do), then it makes perfect fiscal sense.

beepea206 said:
The 'new every two' was discontinued 2 years ago. The reason you get a new subsidized phone price is because you're re-entering into a contract with verizon... so it's like it's a new contract/line. You don't have credits and there's nothing to transfer, but if your contract is up, you can get the 'new' price. Unless you have unlimited data... you do that and they'll move you to a 'share everything' plan.
I've been told Costco will generally eat the cost of the phone, just to sell you one at the 'new' price and get the credit for your business. You keep the unlimited data and Verizon thinks you paid full retail. I can't confirm that plan will work for you, but many here have said that's worked for them.
Personally, I'm in the EDGE program. Pay $16-30/month more for a new device, keep my unlimited data and every 12 months, get to pick a new device. Yes, you're paying $200-360 for the phone, but A- that's not much more than the 'new' price', B- you get to keep unlimited data, C- you get a new phone every 1 year, rather than 2 years with re-entering a contract and D- you were probably going to pay that much for a phone off eBay anyway if you have unlimited data. Dunno if that makes sense for someone with so many lines, but if you keep it to 1-2 lines and really need that data (like I do), then it makes perfect fiscal sense.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, I may look into that if I run out of options.
Has anyone ever heard of this working? Seems like a HUGE loophole if it really works.
http://forums.androidcentral.com/ve...nlimited-data-get-phone-subsidized-price.html

blueice5249 said:
Has anyone ever heard of this working? Seems like a HUGE loophole if it really works.
http://forums.androidcentral.com/ve...nlimited-data-get-phone-subsidized-price.html
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's a huge flaw in Best Buy's system if it works. Because the purchase of the new phone requires a re-entry into contract and VZ specifically has blocks on subsidized phone prices on grandfathered data plans. Not even GMs in Verizon stores can override it... I've tried.
So basically, you're placing a 3rd party order and because Best Buy can't send you a live sim card (only VZ can), you swap it for your current one and VZ is never the wiser. Clever, but tread lightly and quickly.. I can't imagine this flaw will remain open for long.

blueice5249 said:
Broke my S3, and would like to upgrade to the Moto X. Unfortunately, I have the unlimited data upgrade. Our family plan has 5 lines. 1 unlimited smart, 1 tiered smart, and 3 dumb phones. I've searched and heard NUMEROUS stories on how to keep unlimited data, and read comments from people about how none of those work. I figured the XDA folks may be a bit more knowledgeable than some other forums, so I'm trying my hand here. I've heard a few different ways to do it:
1. Transfer my upgrade through myverizon to a dumb line and then upgrade. (Verizon alone has given me about 4 different answers on if this would void my UDP)
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have done this many times. If the upgrade is on your unlimited data plane line, log into VZ website and transfer it to the tiered smart line. When you phone arrived, call VZ and activate on your unlimited data line.

buhohitr said:
I have done this many times. If the upgrade is on your unlimited data plane line, log into VZ website and transfer it to the tiered smart line. When you phone arrived, call VZ and activate on your unlimited data line.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ive done this twice as well. I went to the store and did this. They understood what I was doing too. They didn't care. They thought it was smart. Just transfer the upgrade to a dumbline and then upgrade. Then have them activate it under ur unlimited line.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk 2

buhohitr said:
I have done this many times. If the upgrade is on your unlimited data plane line, log into VZ website and transfer it to the tiered smart line. When you phone arrived, call VZ and activate on your unlimited data line.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just a quick update for everyone:
I couldn't update because of my talk plan. Since I claimed my broken screen through Asurion, I talked them into making a "one-time" exception and sending me a brand new S4 instead of another S3.
I'm selling the S4 and buying a Moto X. They told me they're in and out of them. I convinced them to send me a new S4 (as a "one time" exception because of my great history).
Im going to sell the S4 and buy a Moto X.
I already convinced Motorola to send me a free case and $50 off coupon. Awesome deal! :victory::victory:
Suck it Verizon!
UNLIMITED FOREVER!! :laugh::highfive:

blueice5249 said:
Just a quick update for everyone:
I couldn't update because of my talk plan. Since I claimed my broken screen through Asurion, I talked them into making a "one-time" exception and sending me a brand new S4 instead of another S3.
I'm selling the S4 and buying a Moto X. They told me they're in and out of them. I convinced them to send me a new S4 (as a "one time" exception because of my great history).
Im going to sell the S4 and buy a Moto X.
I already convinced Motorola to send me a free case and $50 off coupon. Awesome deal! :victory::victory:
Suck it Verizon!
UNLIMITED FOREVER!! :laugh::highfive:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nice move! I'm jealous!
:good:

buhohitr said:
Nice move! I'm jealous!
:good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Now you'll be really jealous. Since they have that $100 off sale Monday, I conned free Royal Blue earbuds and the anti-glare film out of them! I'm still gonna call back Monday to see what they're doing for the people who just ordered them too lol

Currently on S4 with unlimited data..

Currently on S4 with unlimited data....is it worth losing unlimited to get the S6 right now?
was goign to do edge (have a few other phones on plan), but mine is still unlimited right now...
My monthly would be pretty much identical....but with shared 8 GB. Other phones barely use data...
Thanks in advance!!!

If you're in the US, just get an S6 at Best Buy and either get a BB credit card or use their payment plan to get it off contract. It's basically the same as getting the edge contract and you get to keep your unlimted data.
Sent from my SM-G920V using Tapatalk

If I use edge....they do give you a credit of 25 bucks every month.
Hmm.....If I'm bringing my own device....shouldn't they be reducing my monthly?

docluv01 said:
Currently on S4 with unlimited data....is it worth losing unlimited to get the S6 right now?
was goign to do edge (have a few other phones on plan), but mine is still unlimited right now...
My monthly would be pretty much identical....but with shared 8 GB. Other phones barely use data...
Thanks in advance!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is no need to lose unlimited data or pay full price!!! Get the phone from Best Buy online, SHIP IT TO YOUR HOUSE, NOT IN STORE PICKUP, then swap the sim from your S4 to your S6 BEFORE POWERING THE S6 ON. Destroy the new SIM that comes with the S6. You will have to cut down the S4 SIM to NanoSIM size but it's super easy. I literally did this today and I have a subsidized S6 64GB ($299) on unlimited data and my contract extended 2 years.
See the following link for a number of ways you can upgrade and keep your unlimited, even if you only have a single line!
https://slickdeals.net/f/7743625-ve...-avoid-a-2-year-data-plan-on-a-basic-line?v=1

docluv01 said:
If I use edge....they do give you a credit of 25 bucks every month.
Hmm.....If I'm bringing my own device....shouldn't they be reducing my monthly?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. I continue to bring my own phone so I'm considered month to month. Therefore I get a $25 discount.
Sent from my SM-G920V using Tapatalk

deranger said:
There is no need to lose unlimited data or pay full price!!! Get the phone from Best Buy online, SHIP IT TO YOUR HOUSE, NOT IN STORE PICKUP, then swap the sim from your S4 to your S6 BEFORE POWERING THE S6 ON. Destroy the new SIM that comes with the S6. You will have to cut down the S4 SIM to NanoSIM size but it's super easy. I literally did this today and I have a subsidized S6 64GB ($299) on unlimited data and my contract extended 2 years.
See the following link for a number of ways you can upgrade and keep your unlimited, even if you only have a single line!
https://slickdeals.net/f/7743625-ve...-avoid-a-2-year-data-plan-on-a-basic-line?v=1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think I've read through that entire thread like 5 times, so much good info in there.
Sent from my SM-G920V using Tapatalk

WOW!!!
Thank you!
deranger said:
There is no need to lose unlimited data or pay full price!!! Get the phone from Best Buy online, SHIP IT TO YOUR HOUSE, NOT IN STORE PICKUP, then swap the sim from your S4 to your S6 BEFORE POWERING THE S6 ON. Destroy the new SIM that comes with the S6. You will have to cut down the S4 SIM to NanoSIM size but it's super easy. I literally did this today and I have a subsidized S6 64GB ($299) on unlimited data and my contract extended 2 years.
See the following link for a number of ways you can upgrade and keep your unlimited, even if you only have a single line!
https://slickdeals.net/f/7743625-ve...-avoid-a-2-year-data-plan-on-a-basic-line?v=1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Hi, SO by using the BB method, you kept the UDP, but you were extended out by 2 yrs?
On my family plan, I also have a basic line that is upgradeable. It seems that if I use one of those methods...I don't get stuck on 2 yr on the basic plan, but also, dont get stuck on 2 yr plan on my UDP. Do you know this to be true? I've read multiple.....can't seem to figure that part out...
deranger said:
There is no need to lose unlimited data or pay full price!!! Get the phone from Best Buy online, SHIP IT TO YOUR HOUSE, NOT IN STORE PICKUP, then swap the sim from your S4 to your S6 BEFORE POWERING THE S6 ON. Destroy the new SIM that comes with the S6. You will have to cut down the S4 SIM to NanoSIM size but it's super easy. I literally did this today and I have a subsidized S6 64GB ($299) on unlimited data and my contract extended 2 years.
See the following link for a number of ways you can upgrade and keep your unlimited, even if you only have a single line!
https://slickdeals.net/f/7743625-ve...-avoid-a-2-year-data-plan-on-a-basic-line?v=1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

docluv01 said:
Hi, SO by using the BB method, you kept the UDP, but you were extended out by 2 yrs?
On my family plan, I also have a basic line that is upgradeable. It seems that if I use one of those methods...I don't get stuck on 2 yr on the basic plan, but also, dont get stuck on 2 yr plan on my UDP. Do you know this to be true? I've read multiple.....can't seem to figure that part out...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. I paid subsidized pricing ($299 for 64 GB S6) and my contract end date was pushed out 2 years, while keeping my Nationwide 700 plan with unlimited data. Depending on what method you use, you will extend your contract out another two years. Being on contract with unlimited data is a GOOD thing. If you're off contract, they can drop your unlimited data anytime for any reason. If you're on contract, dropping your UDP would mean they broke the contract, and thus they would be forfeiting the early cancellation fees, which is a significant chunk of money for a subsidized S6. Read that first post all the way through a couple times, figure out which method works for your situation, and then read those instructions like 10 times. There are different optimal strategies to keep your UDP depending on what your plan looks like.
edit: Best Buy is also running a $100 gift card promotion for Verizon upgrades to S6, just got mine today. Subsidized pricing, $100 to spend at BB, and I still kept my UDP, simply amazing.

deranger said:
There is no need to lose unlimited data or pay full price!!! Get the phone from Best Buy online, SHIP IT TO YOUR HOUSE, NOT IN STORE PICKUP, then swap the sim from your S4 to your S6 BEFORE POWERING THE S6 ON. Destroy the new SIM that comes with the S6. You will have to cut down the S4 SIM to NanoSIM size but it's super easy. I literally did this today and I have a subsidized S6 64GB ($299) on unlimited data and my contract extended 2 years.
See the following link for a number of ways you can upgrade and keep your unlimited, even if you only have a single line!
https://slickdeals.net/f/7743625-ve...-avoid-a-2-year-data-plan-on-a-basic-line?v=1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Remember the SIM you have in your S4 WILL NOT fit in the S6
Sent from my SM-G920V using XDA Free mobile app

chrisj22 said:
Remember the SIM you have in your S4 WILL NOT fit in the S6
Sent from my SM-G920V using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's trivial to print out a template, mark your cuts in permanent marker, and cut it down to size with a pair of good scissors. Some sandpaper for fine tuning (or careful work with sharp, sturdy scissors) was all I needed to make it fit perfectly. You can also purchase a SIM cutter tool from Amazon for <$10 if you don't trust yourself hacking up your SIM. Take note that you should not go to a Verizon corporate store and ask for a new SIM as they will notice the pending equipment activation on your account and most likely drop your UDP. People have had luck paying an authorized retailer for a new SIM, there should be examples in the earlier linked Slickdeals thread. Really though, it's quite simple to cut down the SIM with scissors so long as you take your time and don't overcut it. The actual chip is tiny, what you see on the outside are just contacts.

deranger said:
It's trivial to print out a template, mark your cuts in permanent marker, and cut it down to size with a pair of good scissors. Some sandpaper for fine tuning (or careful work with sharp, sturdy scissors) was all I needed to make it fit perfectly. You can also purchase a SIM cutter tool from Amazon for <$10 if you don't trust yourself hacking up your SIM. Take note that you should not go to a Verizon corporate store and ask for a new SIM as they will notice the pending equipment activation on your account and most likely drop your UDP. People have had luck paying an authorized retailer for a new SIM, there should be examples in the earlier linked Slickdeals thread. Really though, it's quite simple to cut down the SIM with scissors so long as you take your time and don't overcut it. The actual chip is tiny, what you see on the outside are just contacts.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Or being I believe he was getting the phone online from the carrier it will come with a SIM Preloaded in the phone
Sent from my SM-G920V using XDA Free mobile app

chrisj22 said:
Or being I believe he was getting the phone online from the carrier it will come with a SIM Preloaded in the phone
Sent from my SM-G920V using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're not reading the thread at all. If you turn on the phone with the SIM from Best Buy in it, you will instantly lose UDP and not be able to get it back. You MUST destroy the new SIM before you initially power on the phone (even initial charging) when doing this method of getting a subsidized upgrade without losing your unlimited data. If the phone comes on at all, Verizon reads the new SIM as being activated, and your unlimited data is gone forever . It is crucial to take out and destroy the new SIM ASAP.

Does this work with upgrading from a S3? Meaning, will the SIM from a S3 work after trimming?

Let me ask another stupid question, If I buy a s6 off amazon, paying full price. Can I call verizon to send me a new nano sim, and not worry about them killing my unlimited?

docluv01 said:
Let me ask another stupid question, If I buy a s6 off amazon, paying full price. Can I call verizon to send me a new nano sim, and not worry about them killing my unlimited?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I believe you can, but it would be easier to walk into a Verizon corporate store and get it there for free on the spot. Did it a couple weeks ago no issue coming from an s5.
Sent from my SM-G920V using Tapatalk

docluv01 said:
Let me ask another stupid question, If I buy a s6 off amazon, paying full price. Can I call verizon to send me a new nano sim, and not worry about them killing my unlimited?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sure, but why not do the BB method and get it at subsidized pricing? You also get the benefit of being on contract, which means if they kill your UDP (which they are free to do at any time), they will have to let you out of the early termination fee. You could also walk into a VZW corporate store and buy an S6 at full price to keep your unlimited, but be aware that VZW has the right to kill your UDP at any time should they feel the need to do so.
taz291819 said:
Does this work with upgrading from a S3? Meaning, will the SIM from a S3 work after trimming?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To be able to cut down your SIM for the S6, you must currently have a 4G LTE SIM. I personally never owned an S3 so I am not sure if you have a 4G LTE SIM in it or not. If you do, simply do the BB method and trim your SIM. If not, there are methods to get around this, check the thread I linked earlier.

deranger said:
Yes. I paid subsidized pricing ($299 for 64 GB S6) and my contract end date was pushed out 2 years, while keeping my Nationwide 700 plan with unlimited data. Depending on what method you use, you will extend your contract out another two years. Being on contract with unlimited data is a GOOD thing. If you're off contract, they can drop your unlimited data anytime for any reason. If you're on contract, dropping your UDP would mean they broke the contract, and thus they would be forfeiting the early cancellation fees, which is a significant chunk of money for a subsidized S6. Read that first post all the way through a couple times, figure out which method works for your situation, and then read those instructions like 10 times. There are different optimal strategies to keep your UDP depending on what your plan looks like.
edit: Best Buy is also running a $100 gift card promotion for Verizon upgrades to S6, just got mine today. Subsidized pricing, $100 to spend at BB, and I still kept my UDP, simply amazing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What you said above is actually not true, unless BB gives you a different print out and does things differently. As for the way Verizon does things, The contract terms you are signing up for do not include unlimited data. If you read the terms you are signing up for, no where on there does it say you are signing a 2 year deal with unlimited data. At any point in time, whether you are on or off contract, Verizon could swap it over as there have not been 2 year contracts for unlimited data in quite some time. They have chosen not to based on the outrage that came previously when they tried to make some changes to the unlimited plans. (http://www.theverge.com/2014/10/1/6882339/verizon-calls-off-throttling-unlimited-lte-data)
I have seen a few people who swapped their upgrade to another line, used in on that line and then just switched the phone back to theirs. While this did keep their UDP, nowhere in the 2 year contract agreement was it mentioned that they were getting UDP. In fact it was quite the contrary. It would show the 2GB data plan for 30$ which would be activated on line B while line A was just getting the contract extension.
docluv01 said:
Let me ask another stupid question, If I buy a s6 off amazon, paying full price. Can I call verizon to send me a new nano sim, and not worry about them killing my unlimited?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When you buy the phone full retail and go to put it on your line using my Verizon, one step in the process will say your sim is not compatible/or it'll ask you if you want to order a new sim card. Simply click I want a new sim card and within 2 days a new nano sim card will be at your door.

backdown00 said:
What you said above is actually not true, unless BB gives you a different print out and does things differently. As for the way Verizon does things, The contract terms you are signing up for do not include unlimited data. If you read the terms you are signing up for, no where on there does it say you are signing a 2 year deal with unlimited data. At any point in time, whether you are on or off contract, Verizon could swap it over as there have not been 2 year contracts for unlimited data in quite some time. They have chosen not to based on the outrage that came previously when they tried to make some changes to the unlimited plans. (http://www.theverge.com/2014/10/1/6882339/verizon-calls-off-throttling-unlimited-lte-data)
I have seen a few people who swapped their upgrade to another line, used in on that line and then just switched the phone back to theirs. While this did keep their UDP, nowhere in the 2 year contract agreement was it mentioned that they were getting UDP. In fact it was quite the contrary. It would show the 2GB data plan for 30$ which would be activated on line B while line A was just getting the contract extension.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My contract end date is 06/16/2017 and I still have my UDP. Read the thread I linked earlier before you tell me that what I said isn't true. People have been doing alternate upgrades (4ever) and the BB method for quite some time now, and you get to be on-contract and keep your UDP. Doing the BB method doesn't require you to have two lines on the same account either, so the scenario you describe in your second paragraph doesn't apply to this method of getting a subsidized upgrade on-contract while keeping UDP.
Furthermore you don't need to get a new SIM card so long as you already have a 4G LTE SIM. I took the SIM out of my S4, cut it down to nanoSIM size, and put it directly into my new S6 without any incompatible messages or a need to get a new one from VZW. If you already have a 4G LTE SIM you don't need to get a new one. If you do the BB method and order a new SIM kiss goodbye to your UDP. You must reuse your old SIM in order to keep UDP.

deranger said:
My contract end date is 06/16/2017 and I still have my UDP. Read the thread I linked earlier before you tell me that what I said isn't true. People have been doing alternate upgrades (4ever) and the BB method for quite some time now, and you get to be on-contract and keep your UDP. Doing the BB method doesn't require you to have two lines on the same account either, so the scenario you describe in your second paragraph doesn't apply to this method of getting a subsidized upgrade on-contract while keeping UDP.
Furthermore you don't need to get a new SIM card so long as you already have a 4G LTE SIM. I took the SIM out of my S4, cut it down to nanoSIM size, and put it directly into my new S6 without any incompatible messages or a need to get a new one from VZW. If you already have a 4G LTE SIM you don't need to get a new one. If you do the BB method and order a new SIM kiss goodbye to your UDP. You must reuse your old SIM in order to keep UDP.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think I was not clear and I am sorry about that. Your contract end date and what is actually guaranteed by that contract are 2 different things. Look at the actual contract terms. Yes, you can be in a contract with UDP in today's world on verizon, that happens with the example I gave above. The contract you are signing is an extension of service. If done the way in my example, the line its activated on (The line you transferred your upgrade to, line B) will get a data extension contract while the line that transferred the upgrade (line A) will get a service use extension (yes there are now 2 types of contracts). This was changed last September I believe so that if someone tried to transfer their upgrade to a non smartphone line, use the upgrade, then transfer the phone back over to their line, the data plan would stick to the line it was activated on when in the past it would just drop off.
You are correct, you did extend your contract, but that UDP feature is listed nowhere on the actual documents you signed thus changing/removing or doing whatever Verizon wants to do is in no way a violation of your extended service. they are still providing you the service you signed up for. I am not sure when the last time you could actually sign up for unlimited data was using their plan system, but that was definitely more than 3 years ago. I am unsure how these upgrades are processed via best buy and what their contract term sheets look like when printed out, so I can't comment on that process. I have seen Verizon's and seen people who extended their contract and nowhere on that printout is unlimited data listed as being guaranteed for the contract, but it did list the 2GB plan or w/e plan was picked on it. The reason Verizon is not touching this for now is because of the bad press they got previously when trying to modify the unlimited accounts and add throttling. I am sure within the next couple of years though, all unlimited plans will be forced out. It will suck to lose it and its at that time maybe i'll give t-mobile a try.
Also, requesting the sim in the method I put above will in no way effect his UDP. It sends you a nano sim card so you do not have to cut with the current features that are on your account. Yes if you cut your sim card you won't get any incompatible messages because you are not trying to activate the phone through the my Verizon feature. That will only come up when going through and trying activate/change the phone on your account using their website.