Develop Bugs

AT&T Pricing, better off buying off-contract ?

It looks to me like I'm going to be money ahead to pay full retail on the Tilt 2 next month.
I'm on Media Net ($15.00 / month). If you buy on-contract, AT&T is going to force you on to a $30.00 / month data plan, so that's an extra $180.00 a year.
By my math, if I keep the phone longer than 13 months, I'm better off paying full retail of $499.00 for it and staying on Media Net.
Thoughts ?
The AT&T news keeps on a'comin' this weekend. After getting an idea of when the HTC Touch Pro 2 (aka Tilt 2) may be released, and then seeing it show up in inventory, the Boy Genius Report now says it has pricing information for it, as well as a couple of other anticiapted phones. Let's do this the easy way:
* Tilt 2: $299 after contract and $50 rebate; $499 retail.
* Touch Diamond 2: Codenamed the Warhawk and already seen at the FCC, will be known as the Pure and will go for $199 after contract and $40 rebate. Retails for $349.

I'm thinking about this too. Apparently though it doesn't matter if you buy it on or off contract. The new policy is if you get a new Smartphone (AT&T branded, however you do) after September 6, they can and "will" change you to the appropriate data plan. I don't know if they will actually enforce it for people who buy them off eBay and off contract.
What I am really surprised about is the Diamond 2 is only $350 off contract! That is dirt cheap! They go for around $500 on eBay!

petard said:
I'm thinking about this too. Apparently though it doesn't matter if you buy it on or off contract. The new policy is if you get a new Smartphone (AT&T branded, however you do) after September 6, they can and "will" change you to the appropriate data plan. I don't know if they will actually enforce it for people who buy them off eBay and off contract.
What I am really surprised about is the Diamond 2 is only $350 off contract! That is dirt cheap! They go for around $500 on eBay!
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Click to collapse
The announcement about enforcing smart phone data plans was for people who didn't already have a smart phone I believe.
I'm hopeful I'll be able to keep my contract as is and get the 2 year price but no rebate. I'll be ordering through premiere though, so its usually more lax about the contract stuff.

petard said:
I don't know if they will actually enforce it for people who buy them off eBay and off contract.
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I don't see how they could unless they are going to do some IMEA enforcement, and they never have before.
I guess ebay is going to be the way to go.

there are different ways to do this:
1- if you are able to, buy from premier. they dont ask you to change any data plan or anything
2- if you are unable to, buy it with contract, add the data plan. go home, put ur sim in your old phone (or any non-smartphone), call at&t and tell them you want to switch phones, and re-add the $15 medianet plan.
theres no point to buy it off contract if you can buy it w/contract

petard said:
I'm thinking about this too. Apparently though it doesn't matter if you buy it on or off contract. The new policy is if you get a new Smartphone (AT&T branded, however you do) after September 6, they can and "will" change you to the appropriate data plan. I don't know if they will actually enforce it for people who buy them off eBay and off contract.
What I am really surprised about is the Diamond 2 is only $350 off contract! That is dirt cheap! They go for around $500 on eBay!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Where can I read this new policy ?
Does someone have a link to it ?
Thanks

RacerX10 said:
It looks to me like I'm going to be money ahead to pay full retail on the Tilt 2 next month.
I'm on Media Net ($15.00 / month). If you buy on-contract, AT&T is going to force you on to a $30.00 / month data plan, so that's an extra $180.00 a year.
By my math, if I keep the phone longer than 13 months, I'm better off paying full retail of $499.00 for it and staying on Media Net.
Thoughts ?
The AT&T news keeps on a'comin' this weekend. After getting an idea of when the HTC Touch Pro 2 (aka Tilt 2) may be released, and then seeing it show up in inventory, the Boy Genius Report now says it has pricing information for it, as well as a couple of other anticiapted phones. Let's do this the easy way:
* Tilt 2: $299 after contract and $50 rebate; $499 retail.
* Touch Diamond 2: Codenamed the Warhawk and already seen at the FCC, will be known as the Pure and will go for $199 after contract and $40 rebate. Retails for $349.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well AT&T has lost so much money with the iPhone that they had to make it back somehow. Good luck with AT&T. I hope they work out better for you than they did for me.

I think the particulars on this one are what's going to matter. I could purchase it on my wife's number .. she's got no data plan at all. I wonder if ATT is going to force you on a data plan if you don't currently have one now (and don't want one)
Again, worst case scenario I can pick one up on ebay and avoid their new policy but it would be nice to know for sure what the policy is.

They are supposedly going to do IMEI checking for all phones. They already do with the iPhone.
I can go all the way through checkout until I confirm my order on Premier and it doesn't ask me to switch data plans. If you have access to it, use it.

petard said:
They are supposedly going to do IMEI checking for all phones. They already do with the iPhone.
I can go all the way through checkout until I confirm my order on Premier and it doesn't ask me to switch data plans. If you have access to it, use it.
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Click to collapse
Premier isn't an option for me, but thanks for the info.

I am just learning about Premier, what is it or how do you get to be premier?

Thresher said:
I am just learning about Premier, what is it or how do you get to be premier?
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Premier is AT&T's service for corporate/business customers. For instance my employer has an 'employee' discount on plans, handsets, accessories, activation etc for personal accounts, though I've never noticed a price difference on phones. Usually just cheaper plans and better customer service.

petard said:
They are supposedly going to do IMEI checking for all phones.
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Click to collapse
I'm a little skeptical on this one. I've been hearing this for years and it hasn't happened yet.

RacerX10 said:
It looks to me like I'm going to be money ahead to pay full retail on the Tilt 2 next month.
I'm on Media Net ($15.00 / month). If you buy on-contract, AT&T is going to force you on to a $30.00 / month data plan, so that's an extra $180.00 a year.
By my math, if I keep the phone longer than 13 months, I'm better off paying full retail of $499.00 for it and staying on Media Net.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When I bought my Tilt (1) they had me increase my plan too, but the guy told me that I dont have to keep it at the higher plan. He told me to wait 45 days, then call AT&T and switch it back down to the lesser plan. Worked just fine... Granted that was 2 years ago, so who knows if they changed their stance on that kind of thing...

AT&T Off Contract
My TP is about to die and I want to replace it. I prefer to get off contract and right now I have two concerns:
1. 3G speeds. Can I get it with a AU phone like this: http://cgi.ebay.com/New-HTC-TOUCH-P...ones?hash=item27ab9cfc19&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14
Will this phone really work at 3G speeds on ATT?
2. I'm also interested in WinMo 6.5 like this: http://cgi.ebay.com/HTC-TOUCH-PRO-2...ones?hash=item27abab1dc0&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14
Does anyone on this site offer a ROM service?
Thx.
James

It only has UMTS850, not UMTS1900. That means it will work on some of AT&Ts 3G network but not all of it. Either the listed lied or didn't know that you need UMTS1900 to FULLY support AT&Ts 3G network. Just wait a bit, AT&Ts version will be out in less than a month. You can buy it retail for $500 off contract and probably less on eBay after it comes out.

petard said:
They are supposedly going to do IMEI checking for all phones. They already do with the iPhone.
I can go all the way through checkout until I confirm my order on Premier and it doesn't ask me to switch data plans. If you have access to it, use it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
RacerX10 said:
I'm a little skeptical on this one. I've been hearing this for years and it hasn't happened yet.
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Click to collapse
A guy on brighthand was just doing a little juggling between an old iPhone and his current Nokia smartphone. He actually has a $30 smartphone data plan, but the point of his post was that after he undid a little iPhone issue, got his old 3G plan back up and running and put his sim back in his nokia, he immediately got a text informing him of his need for a smartphone data plan, and that one would be added for him if he failed to add it. They aren't ONLY checking the iPhone anymore.
They're definitely tightening things down. I doubt it is anywhere near airtight yet, but I'd be hesitant about using last year's workarounds.

jamesmuir said:
My TP is about to die and I want to replace it. I prefer to get off contract and right now I have two concerns:
1. 3G speeds. Can I get it with a AU phone like this: http://cgi.ebay.com/New-HTC-TOUCH-P...ones?hash=item27ab9cfc19&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14
Will this phone really work at 3G speeds on ATT?
2. I'm also interested in WinMo 6.5 like this: http://cgi.ebay.com/HTC-TOUCH-PRO-2...ones?hash=item27abab1dc0&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14
Does anyone on this site offer a ROM service?
Thx.
James
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
petard said:
It only has UMTS850, not UMTS1900. That means it will work on some of AT&Ts 3G network but not all of it. Either the listed lied or didn't know that you need UMTS1900 to FULLY support AT&Ts 3G network. Just wait a bit, AT&Ts version will be out in less than a month. You can buy it retail for $500 off contract and probably less on eBay after it comes out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have this phone and it does only have 850 for 3g. For me it works just great because the area I live in has 850 for 90% of ATT 3g. You don't have to have the 1900 band to get "full" 3g it works on one or the other. But if your area doesn't use the 850 band then you won't get 3g. I agree, with the phone from ATT coming in one month it would be better to wait because you will save about $300.00 off retail.
My phone is unlocked and I have flashed Miri's v2.0 ROM, all works great and it is much faster than stock ROM. Once you get the ATT phone just HSPL and flash away the ATT bloat ROM.

Currently have a Galaxy Nexus pre-ordered on Bell on a 3 yr contract should i switch?

Hey Everyone,
I currently have a Galaxy Nexus pre-ordered on Bell on a three year contract ($185 and $50/month for 500mb of data + 150 minutes). I found out that Mobilicity is also a GSM network that will work with the Galaxy Nexus and the price per month is only $17.50/month (for unlimited data, unlimited local calling and caller ID!) but the only downside is that many people report that the network drops often and there is no HSPA+ speeds. I know this may seem like a REALLY stupid question to ask, but do you guys think I should cancel the order, and then re-order the Galaxy Nexus unlocked for $800? (Taxes + cancellation fee). I mean with the network not supporting HSPA+ and the network itself not being supported in some areas in Canada (although I don't travel much and according to the coverage map I'm fully supported), is it really worth it from switching from my current order with Bell on a 3 year contract to Mobilicity?
Note: I realize its a fairly stupid question, but I haven't been thinking straight for the past few days and your comments will be extremely appreciated.

I go through 500MB of data in a week. That plan would never work for me. I have a T-Moble/Wal-Mart $30/month unlimited data (5GB at H+), unlimited text, 100 talk mins (I never talk on the phone) and bought an unlocked GN for $850. The closest plan would cost me $99/month with Verizon.
I don't get why people can't realize that buying a good phone and then getting a cheap plan is cheaper in the long run.

Taggard said:
I go through 500MB of data in a week. That plan would never work for me. I have a T-Moble/Wal-Mart $30/month unlimited data (5GB at H+), unlimited text, 100 talk mins (I never talk on the phone) and bought an unlocked GN for $850. The closest plan would cost me $99/month with Verizon.
I don't get why people can't realize that buying a good phone and then getting a cheap plan is cheaper in the long run.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I pay $60 after taxes and fees per month on Tmobile USA with 1000 minutes, unlimited texts, and 5GB of H+ speeds. I got the Galaxy S II for $149 with a 2 year contract. Over 2 years I will pay a total of about $1400 after all taxes and fees, including the price of the phone. Over 2 years you will pay about $1,600 including the price of your phone... Who's saving money?
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium

Towle said:
I pay $60 after taxes and fees per month on Tmobile USA with 1000 minutes, unlimited texts, and 5GB of H+ speeds. I got the Galaxy S II for $149 with a 2 year contract. Over 2 years I will pay a total of about $1400 after all taxes and fees, including the price of the phone. Over 2 years you will pay about $1,600 including the price of your phone... Who's saving money?
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium
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Huh?
$30 x 24mo + $850 phone = $1570
$60 x 24mo + $150 phone = $1590
And he overpaid for the phone considering most are getting it for around ~$700 shipped. So for most in his situation it'd be more like ~$1420 for 2 years + phone. And you got a good deal on your SGSII, as T-mo advertises it for $229. So we can say most people's annual cost in your situation is ~$1670.
So if we go with real-world math its ~$1420 vs. ~$1670....
Not to mention that you're on a contract, and he isn't. Some people don't like being in a contract and that's worth it for them.

Yea I'm a heavy data user.... so I thought. But looking at several past invoices I realized I only use about 200 minutes and about 1.5-2gb a month data. I utilize wifi at work, work, and hotels when I can.
I pay $60 a month on T-Mobile for 1000 minutes and 5gb cap.
Buying the phone outright and using the Nexus on a cheap plan (Simple Mobile or Walmart special) is the way to go.
I also have a Verizon blackberry through work. I'm ditching my personal line, buying the Nexus on a new contract price on the corporate account and saving my money.
500mb of data would kill me... especially if there are overages and penalties.
G2x - 2.3.7 CM7
Transformer - 3.2 Revolver OC/UV

Towle said:
I pay $60 after taxes and fees per month on Tmobile USA with 1000 minutes, unlimited texts, and 5GB of H+ speeds. I got the Galaxy S II for $149 with a 2 year contract. Over 2 years I will pay a total of about $1400 after all taxes and fees, including the price of the phone. Over 2 years you will pay about $1,600 including the price of your phone... Who's saving money?
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium
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Click to collapse
$149 up front but you pay full price for the phone over the 2 years which is $15 a month or more extra on top of the 59.99 a month

martonikaj said:
Huh?
$30 x 24mo + $850 phone = $1570
$60 x 24mo + $150 phone = $1590
And he overpaid for the phone considering most are getting it for around $700 shipped.
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Click to collapse
Correct 30x24+850=1570, which would work if there were no taxes and fees. And I did mine wrong I was going off of the time until I can upgrade again, my bad.
I'm still paying less than him after taxes and fees, and getting 10x the minutes.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium

b1337 said:
$149 up front but you pay full price for the phone over the 2 years which is $15 a month or more extra on top of the 59.99 a month
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Click to collapse
What? No. I pay $149 total for the phone, I'm not on a value plan.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium

Towle said:
Correct 30x24+850=1570, which would work if there were no taxes and fees. And I did mine wrong I was going off of the time until I can upgrade again, my bad.
I'm still paying less than him after taxes and fees, and getting 10x the minutes.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium
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Click to collapse
Look at my post again for a better breakdown... And even if he's paying 10% sales tax on his monthly purchases (there's no carrier fees involved with a pre-pay plan), that's only another $72 over 2 years.
That walmart/T-mo prepay play is an amazing deal. I'm looking to switch to it myself from my EM+ plan.

Towle said:
What? No. I pay $149 total for the phone, I'm not on a value plan.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium
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Click to collapse
pinky up i need that plan!!

The point I'm trying to make is that there is no savings in buying a phone outright and going on an off contract plan (when comparing apples to apples with the plans). The only difference is one has a contract and one doesn't. Which I don't plan on leaving Tmobile anytime soon, or ever, because everyone else is more expensive.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium

Towle said:
The point I'm trying to make is that there is no savings in buying a phone outright and going on an off contract plan. The only difference is one has a contract and one doesn't. Which I don't plan on leaving Tmobile anytime soon, or ever, because everyone else is more expensive.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium
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Well there is considering that this phone isn't offered on T-mobile... If you're going to be buying a phone full price to get one not available on the carrier, then you're saving money by going pre-pay or some form of off-contract service. And like I said, people see value in being off contract.
I wasn't trying to say you're doing the wrong thing (everyone makes their own choice for service that works for them), but I have to point out blatant math errors when you're trying to prove your point. He really is spending less money over 2 years.

martonikaj said:
Well there is considering that this phone isn't offered on T-mobile... If you're going to be buying a phone full price to get one not available on the carrier, then you're saving money by going pre-pay or some form of off-contract service. And like I said, people see value in being off contract.
I wasn't trying to say you're doing the wrong thing (everyone makes their own choice for service that works for them), but I have to point out blatant math errors when you're trying to prove your point. He really is spending less money over 2 years.
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I'm not saying anyone is doing anything wrong by going that route either, it's all personal preference. I just didn't like the statement "I don't get why people don't realize" when it's not true.
And your comparison isn't even valid. I'm pretty sure neither of us live in fake worlds and I paid $149 for my phone and he paid $850 for his. Even if they come out to be the same price over 2 years, I'm getting 10x the minutes, and don't have to fork over $600+ at one shot. Like I said, I'm not saying there is anything wrong with the other plans whatsoever, I just don't want people saying that everyone else is stupid for not going that route, when it's all personal preference.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium

I'm on someones employee t-mobile plan : ) 2k minutes my faves unlimited txt web tethering and insurance for $10 a month : )
Sent from my Nexus S using xda premium

Towle said:
I'm not saying anyone is doing anything wrong by going that route either, it's all personal preference. I just didn't like the statement "I don't get why people don't realize" when it's not true.
And your comparison isn't even valid. I'm pretty sure neither of us live in fake worlds and I paid $149 for my phone and he paid $850 for his. Even if they come out to be the same price over 2 years, I'm getting 10x the minutes, and don't have to fork over $600+ at one shot. Like I said, I'm not saying there is anything wrong with the other plans whatsoever, I just don't want people saying that everyone else is stupid for not going that route, when it's all personal preference.
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I simply covered the fact that most people are buying their Nexus' for ~$700, and T-mobile advertises the SGSII for $229.
That aside, I think his statement still holds strong. You've obviously crunched the numbers but most don't. Most people don't realize that there are fantastic off contract or pre-pay options that can save them $100's per year. Especially if they're coming from Verizon or AT&T, we're talking about moving from ~$100 per month to ~$30.

Thanks so much for the replies guys I think what I'll be doing is buying it on a three year contract, buying another phone unlocked after a year or so when it becomes TRULY obsoleted in terms of software + hardware and using the sim on that. (I also had a question: would the galaxy nexus be considered "unlocked" after I remove the sim? Or is it still locked to the carrier? Also, if it is locked to the carrier, could I just get it unlocked from an external source?) Also, I have 14 days to return the phone (as long as I don't use 15 minutes or 1.5 mb) Finally, I'm not on a two year contract, but a 3 year one. The best plan I could get is $70/month and I get 6GB of data + 200 minutes. I see how I'm losing money, but I'm in Canada and the plans here are MUCH worse than in the US.

mohitrocks said:
Thanks so much for the replies guys I think what I'll be doing is buying it on a three year contract, buying another phone unlocked after a year or so when it becomes TRULY obsoleted in terms of software + hardware and using the sim on that. (I also had a question: would the galaxy nexus be considered "unlocked" after I remove the sim? Or is it still locked to the carrier? Also, if it is locked to the carrier, could I just get it unlocked from an external source?) Also, I have 14 days to return the phone (as long as I don't use 15 minutes or 1.5 mb) Finally, I'm not on a two year contract, but a 3 year one. The best plan I could get is $70/month and I get 6GB of data + 200 minutes. I see how I'm losing money, but I'm in Canada and the plans here are MUCH worse than in the US.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hopefully it will be unlocked from Bell. The Nexus S was, and some people have reported Bell reps saying the Galaxy Nexus will be as well.
You should ask Bell for 6 GB though. I talked to a rep and told him that Rogers was offering me 6 GB for the 500 MB price (unadvertised, but it was all over mobile sites a week or two ago), and asked if Bell could do the same for me if I was signing a 3-year contract. He said they would. It's common for Bell and Rogers to offer the 6 GB at times... ask for it, and if you're signing a 3-year contract you might just get it. Why have only 500 MB if you can get 6 GB for the same price?

Wait, what? A THREE YEAR CONTRACT? I thought 24 months was hard enough!

momagic said:
Wait, what? A THREE YEAR CONTRACT? I thought 24 months was hard enough!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's the unfortunate standard for Canada. The two-year contract price for the GN is $599.99. That's F***ing ridiculous. This is why I decided to let my current contract run out in 15 months and not sign another. It's unlocked phones and the negotiating ability of switching for me now.
I'm also hoping the GN is carrier unlocked, as it should be, from Bell. Since I'm buying it outright anyways, I'll just drop my Telus SIM in and be a happy camper. Otherwise I have to wait until January when Telus and Rogers release it.

Prof-KOS said:
It's the unfortunate standard for Canada. The two-year contract price for the GN is $599.99. That's F***ing ridiculous. This is why I decided to let my current contract run out in 15 months and not sign another. It's unlocked phones and the negotiating ability of switching for me now.
I'm also hoping the GN is carrier unlocked, as it should be, from Bell. Since I'm buying it outright anyways, I'll just drop my Telus SIM in and be a happy camper. Otherwise I have to wait until January when Telus and Rogers release it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can confirm that the Bell GN is unlocked. Just popped a Telus sim in and it worked.

Worth early contract cancellation and move to Verizon?

are any of you considering instead of buying the unlocked version for 750ish dollars instead just cancelling your current contract and moving to verizon for the supposed 200 dollar contract price?
I'm thinking the Pros so far would be LTE and verizon is currently having their 4GB for the price of 2GB data plan.

I thought about it briefly only because my fiance is on verizon and it would be nice to get a shared plan. However, I am on a very cheap legacy T-mobile plan with unlimited internet. I get anywhere from 5-10mbps down and 2 up in my area. It's not worth it for me.

I hadn't planned on buying the unlocked version at all. I'm currently on AT&T (and ridiculously on a contract...despite not initiating it) and I'm jumping ship when it's released for Verizon. Right now it's like a $230 ETF, but AT&T credited me $100 because it was their miscommunication that entered me onto a new contract, in the first place. Yes, I'll still end up paying $130, but I saved $300 when I bought my phone (I was planning on buying it outright, they gave me the contract pricing but started a new contract).
Pros:
*MUCH* faster internet. I have devices on both networks and the difference is massive from 4-6Mbps and 25-35Mbps (both of which are the average of what I've gotten on both networks)
*Much* better coverage. Inside of the city I have great 3.5G on AT&T. 30 minutes outside of the city things start dropping off *very* quickly.
Better group data connections. On AT&T, anytime I'm in a very crowded area (think baseball or football stadiums) my data connection drops off to nothing. I still have full service, but I get no data at all. This means I get very few texts, if any, and my internet is all but useless. This is the biggest annoyance I have with AT&T, and I've been true for years.

Currently it is cheaper to switch then it is to buy unlocked. I am on AT&T right now and my prorated termination fee is $235. If I switch to Verizon it will cost me the $235 + $199.99 or $299.99 (whatever the phone ends up costing). in other words I will be spending $435 or $535 for the phone vs. 700+ to import it. On top of that I can sell my current phone (atrix) for around $200 (with accessories) which will bring my costs to either $235, $335, or $500+ depending on what I do.
Long story short its currently a better deal to switch carriers unless they release the unlocked version here in the us for ~$500.

If you're switching from AT&T it's probably worth it considering the monthly plans are about the same price If you're switching from T-mobile it probably isn't considering your plan is probably much cheaper.
Obviously you can make your own call on your situation, if you have LTE in your area, if Verizon's voice service is better in your area, or if you have family members on Verizon, etc.
I think the answer is different for each case. There's definitely no 1 answer here.

I was considering doing the same thing until I looked at how much it would cost me on Verizon vs. the cost if I were to stick with my T-Mobile plan.
Right now I'm paying a nice $113/m for:
750 minutes split across four lines, all with unlimited texting, and unlimited data on my phone.
by my calculations, it would be at least $80/m with my student (15%) discount at Verizon for just me, never mind the fact that I would need to pay a $200 ETF and then $200 for a phone. By the time I have my GN in hand it would have cost me $400 to get there to a more expensive plan..
If I were to switch my entire family over to Verizon, it would cost so much more per month, and they would all need to buy new phones - it's not worth it.
Instead, I sold my old nexus one for $150, bought a SGS II for $275 and am currently about to sell it for $520 or so. By my calculations, that takes off about $400 of my GN, bringing it down to about $300 - a very reasonable price for this phone.
The speeds on T-Mobile here in Seattle are pretty awesome as well. I just did a speedtest and got 7mb down (for some reason only 300kb up), while LTE may be faster, the price and battery drain makes it completely not worth it.

Unlocked + $30 PrePaid unlimited 4G T-mobile plan = pure ownage.
I'll be also swapping my HTC Rezound for Verizon's Nexus as it's within the return policy frame. Two Nexi woot

I think it may be worth switching now after reading the comments from that youtube video of the Verizon version of the phone it's listed as having 32GB as opposed to the 16GB for the unlocked version.

I'm ETFing my 2-line family plan with T-Mobile and switching to Verizon. About 4 months ago, the data speeds in my neighborhood dropped from about 2.5 Mbps to 0.5 Mbps. T-Mobile has done nothing to rectify the issue, so I'd rather pay a bit more each month and actually get what I pay for. However, I am not interested in any phone other than the GNex.

And this why carriers continue to rule in the usa because the sheep like subsidies. Vomits.
Sent from my samsung gt i9250 which is in the wrong country.

pukemon said:
And this why carriers continue to rule in the usa because the sheep like subsidies. Vomits.
Sent from my samsung gt i9250 which is in the wrong country.
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Click to collapse
Actually they rule because of coverage and devices. tmobile works for some people and doesn't for most which is why it is in the financial quagmire it currently is in.

I think it's totally worth it, and I almost did it. Ultimately, for now I think I will stick with the GSM version, but the lure of LTE is very tempting. Here are the factors you should consider:
1a) Verizon has (much) faster data speeds on their Nexus if you have LTE in your area.
1b) Verizon has slower data speeds on their Nexus if you do not have LTE in your area.
2) Verizon is much better for use in crowds, like at football games where AT&T doesn't work at all.
3) Verizon generally has better coverage in buildings.
4) AT&T and T-Mobile have (much) better international options. Verizon is basically unusable internationally because you will lose your double your data plan if you ever switch to an international plan and/or rent an international phone, even temporarily (and yes, I had something like 4 conversations with various Verizon representatives about this).
I have unlimited data on AT&T, so that plus the international issue (1-2 trips a year) made me decide to pass for now. It's still incredibly tempting, though, so I wouldn't blame you at all. Just do yourself a favor and don't let the carrier subsidy be the deciding factor.

I have to admit, I didn't think of this angle. I still have a contract from AT&T from the original iPhone 4 (sold long ago). I believe my ETF currently is around $180 or so. I bought the unlocked GN two weeks ago and have been loving it, but Verizon's (expensive) network is tempting as is LTE.
But I look at it this way. I don't need more than 5 down. I mean 25-30 would be nice, but I just don't see the need for that type of bandwidth on a phone. Perhaps if I had a tethering plan, but add that in and you will burn through 4-6 gigs/month fast...so then you look at the 10 gig plan, which is a fortune. Next thing you know, your monthly bill for one line is like $130, and that's with only 450 non-rollover minutes and no texts. Not for me.
I have two lines on ATT, both with unlimited data and 200 SMSs. After my company discount, it only costs us $117 after taxes. We have like 4,000 rollover minutes.
I just can't justify it, but I do fully agree Verizon is a much better network than ATT. And then there's the "toss any pre-paid SIM" international angle...
It's just sensible to stay where I am for now. If Verizon ever did an unlimited data promotion again, I'd join in a heartbeat. They already tested the waters with double data, so I'd say it's always possible for a short-running unlimited data promo.
Ball's in your court VZW!

Also if you think the GSM nexus is going to be at this price forever you are nuts. As soon as more supply opens up and other retailers start selling it the price is going to fall rapidly. I'd just wait a month and be perfectly happy buying it from Amazon for much less.

Aridon said:
Also if you think the GSM nexus is going to be at this price forever you are nuts. As soon as more supply opens up and other retailers start selling it the price is going to fall rapidly. I'd just wait a month and be perfectly happy buying it from Amazon for much less.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What do you consider "much less?" I'd bet it holds above $550 for many, many months.
For reference, the SGSII is still $552 on Amazon. It's been out for quite a while...
I don't think a single person thinks the GNEX will be $750 "forever."

ericshmerick said:
What do you consider "much less?" I'd bet it holds above $550 for many, many months.
For reference, the SGSII is still $552 on Amazon. It's been out for quite a while...
I don't think a single person thinks the GNEX will be $750 "forever."
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
$200 less and no etf is a lot of change.

ericshmerick said:
I have to admit, I didn't think of this angle. I still have a contract from AT&T from the original iPhone 4 (sold long ago). I believe my ETF currently is around $180 or so. I bought the unlocked GN two weeks ago and have been loving it, but Verizon's (expensive) network is tempting as is LTE.
But I look at it this way. I don't need more than 5 down. I mean 25-30 would be nice, but I just don't see the need for that type of bandwidth on a phone. Perhaps if I had a tethering plan, but add that in and you will burn through 4-6 gigs/month fast...so then you look at the 10 gig plan, which is a fortune. Next thing you know, your monthly bill for one line is like $130, and that's with only 450 non-rollover minutes and no texts. Not for me.
I have two lines on ATT, both with unlimited data and 200 SMSs. After my company discount, it only costs us $117 after taxes. We have like 4,000 rollover minutes.
I just can't justify it, but I do fully agree Verizon is a much better network than ATT. And then there's the "toss any pre-paid SIM" international angle...
It's just sensible to stay where I am for now. If Verizon ever did an unlimited data promotion again, I'd join in a heartbeat. They already tested the waters with double data, so I'd say it's always possible for a short-running unlimited data promo.
Ball's in your court VZW!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just found out they are offering Microsoft Employees unlimited data for 20 dollars, so looks like i'm definitely switching over to verizon and just cancelling AT&T

True2TheGame said:
Just found out they are offering Microsoft Employees unlimited data for 20 dollars, so looks like i'm definitely switching over to verizon and just cancelling AT&T
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
...so basically MSFT is incenting their employees to go to VZW for, well, Android phones?
Sounds like a great deal! (/sarcasm)

pukemon said:
And this why carriers continue to rule in the usa because the sheep like subsidies. Vomits.
Sent from my samsung gt i9250 which is in the wrong country.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I like options. Sometimes its cheaper to buy outright and other times its cheaper to go on contract if you plan to be with a carrier for a couple years. In the US we only have 4 carriers really, 2 of which are GSM... so we don't switch carriers often and prices are about the same.
Buy now, pay later is the American dream.
G2x - 2.3.7 CM7
Transformer - 3.2 Revolver OC/UV

[Q] T-Mobile $30/mo plan for Note2?

I posted this earlier but this question probably deserves its own thread as I'm not sure yet why more people aren't considering it here for the Note2 (up front cost of unsubsidized device? - there seems to be plenty of people either buying or considering buying unlocked international models in XDA forums)?
- Someone I met at BestBuy while marveling at the Note2 for ~2hrs told me about a $30 T-Mobile plan :http://www.gottabemobile.com/2012/07/04/t-mobile-monthly-4g-review-30-per-month-bargain (He praised Verizon local coverage but is grandfathered into their unlimited plan)?
" For $30 per month, including taxes and fees, I could get unlimited messaging and Web. The plan includes just 100 minutes of voice calls per month, but that’s plenty considering my use-case for this phone. Extra minutes cost just 10 cents each. The mobile hotspot feature is a $15 add-on."
Anyone using this $30/mo T-Mobile plan with their Note2? Any issues besides buying an unsubsidized device to use it?
http://prepaid-phones.t-mobile.com/monthly-4g-plans
" Get talk, text and high-speed web on any capable T-Mobile phone.
It’s a better way to do prepaid. Compare Monthly4G plans.
$50/mo
Unlimited Talk Text & Web
$30/mo
Unlimited Web & Text with 100 Minutes Talk
Great for video chat, streaming
music/movies/TV, playing
online games, and more."
Also found the following related thread:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1892968&page=2 ( T-Mobile 30 dollar plan for gs3???) - Babydoll25 mentions no Wi-Fi calling but I think I can live without it & use Skype or other alternatives if needed

I am on the $30 a month 100 minutes talk 5GB 4G plan from Walmart, which is the same plan as the one on that link, with the Note II and no issues here. Obviously I had to pay a huge unsubsidized chunk of change for the device itself but I'm glad to only be paying $30 a month for everything.
I almost never go over the 100 minutes and I do keep an extra $10 on the account just in case I do go over and run into the 10 cents a minute after the 100 minutes are up but I've only had to dip into that a little bit once.
BTW the 'unlimited' data you will find in the fine print is the first 5GB is 4G, then thereafter you get throttled to slower speeds, but I still find 5GB is plenty enough for me.
Also, you can do wifi calling if you use a different app like Google Voice + GrooveIP. IIRC you do have to root also to keep it from deducting from your minutes though. I did it on my old phone but I haven't messed with it on the Note II yet because like I mentioned I just really don't talk that much.
Hotspot you can also do either with root and some finagling or if you don't mind a cord you can do cabled usb tether.

Sorry to disappoint you buddy, but a lot of people here including myself is been using this plan for a long time now. I've been using it myself for almost a year and half, so far I have used this plan with the galaxy s 2, Galaxy Note AT&T, Galaxy note T Mobile, and now Galaxy Note 2 T Mobile. It's a great plan for people that doesn't talk much on the phone hahahahaha.
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda premium

We all have been using this plan for awhile lol.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2

_Motoki_ said:
I am on the $30 a month 100 minutes talk 5GB 4G plan from Walmart, which is the same plan as the one on that link, with the Note II and no issues here. Obviously I had to pay a huge unsubsidized chunk of change for the device itself but I'm glad to only be paying $30 a month for everything.
I almost never go over the 100 minutes and I do keep an extra $10 on the account just in case I do go over and run into the 10 cents a minute after the 100 minutes are up but I've only had to dip into that a little bit once.
BTW the 'unlimited' data you will find in the fine print is the first 5GB is 4G, then thereafter you get throttled to slower speeds, but I still find 5GB is plenty enough for me.
Also, you can do wifi calling if you use a different app like Google Voice + GrooveIP. IIRC you do have to root also to keep it from deducting from your minutes though. I did it on my old phone but I haven't messed with it on the Note II yet because like I mentioned I just really don't talk that much.
Hotspot you can also do either with root and some finagling or if you don't mind a cord you can do cabled usb tether.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks _Motoki_ are you rooted or will you root the Note2?
For those who would rather not pay the full unsubsidized price upfront, couldn't they buy the Note2 for that T-Mobile in store price of $250 +$20/mo for 20 mo interest free (total $650 over ~20 months) with the no contract $49.99/mo plan (500 Whenever Minutes + unlimited data or $59.99/mo for no throttling if needed) & then just do this $30/mo plan thereafter if their use case supports it (or would the store let you immediately do it on that $250 +$20/mo for 20 mo interest free price)?
T-Mobile seems to offer more plan flexibility than the other carriers but they certainly did not mention any $30/mo plan to me when I was in their store..is it really only $30/mo total including taxes & fees?

SMARTPHONEPC said:
Thanks _Motoki_ are you rooted or will you root the Note2?
For those who would rather not pay the full unsubsidized price upfront, couldn't they buy the Note2 for that T-Mobile in store price of $250 +$20/mo for 20 mo interest free (total $650 over ~20 months) with the no contract $49.99/mo plan (500 Whenever Minutes + unlimited data or $59.99/mo for no throttling if needed) & then just do this $30/mo plan thereafter if their use case supports it (or would the store let you immediately do it on that $250 +$20/mo for 20 mo interest free price)?
T-Mobile seems to offer more plan flexibility than the other carriers but they certainly did not mention any $30/mo plan to me when I was in their store..is it really only $30/mo total including taxes & fees?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The $250 down with $20/mo times 20 months=$650 for phone is only available thru the value plan which requires a 2 year contract. So you are locked into a contract and pay full price for the phone.
The $30 4g monthly plan unl data, text, and 100 min is a prepaid plan requiring no contract. You bring your own phone- any gsm will do. Better if it works on tmo 3g.
An there are no taxes or fees. If you buy thru calling mart, with the right discounts which are sent to you via email if you are on their customer list- you can get refils for $28.50/month!
Also this plan is only available online or thru walmart stores. T-mobile stores will not offer it to you. Strictly do it yourself online.

xpprofessional1 said:
Sorry to disappoint you buddy, but a lot of people here including myself is been using this plan for a long time now. I've been using it myself for almost a year and half, so far I have used this plan with the galaxy s 2, Galaxy Note AT&T, Galaxy note T Mobile, and now Galaxy Note 2 T Mobile. It's a great plan for people that doesn't talk much on the phone hahahahaha.
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why would I be disappointed?:victory: Don't you think more people would consider trying the Note 2 on T-Mobile if they knew this plan was available for the Note2?
If the coverage isn't acceptable, the Note 2 could still be returned for a full refund within 14 days right with no activation fee right?
Sounds like a low risk way to try T-Mobile..
Also can't users just move up to other T-Mobile off contract plans if this $30/mo total plan doesn't best support their use case?:good:

No sim fees, no activation fees? All you have to do is pay the first month?
Sent from my GT-I9300 using xda app-developers app

sashusmom said:
The $250 down with $20/mo times 20 months=$650 for phone is only available thru the value plan which requires a 2 year contract. So you are locked into a contract and pay full price for the phone.
The $30 4g monthly plan unl data, text, and 100 min is a prepaid plan requiring no contract. You bring your own phone- any gsm will do. Better if it works on tmo 3g.
An there are no taxes or fees. If you buy thru calling mart, with the right discounts which are sent to you via email if you are on their customer list- you can get refils for $28.50/month!
Also this plan is only available online or thru walmart stores. T-mobile stores will not offer it to you. Strictly do it yourself online.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks Ok she didn't mention that price required a 2 year contract (& was within a broader conversation of plans available outside of contracts).. well I guess if someone is unsure of how the Note2 on T-Mobile would work for them, they can could still get it for the above deal to test out for 14 days & return it for full refund to get out of that contract & then buy it online for full $650+tax if satisfied right?
http://prepaid-phones.t-mobile.com/monthly-4g-plans (not just Walmart it seems but $30/mo or $28.50/month for email discount refills is impressively less than I'm currently paying for my inferior EVO non-existent "4G"service on Sprint compounded by their slow 3G)..
Users can still easily go to other T-Mobile off contract plans if this $30/mo total plan doesn't best support their use case in following months right?
I don't think I want to deal with contracts if there is a better option for my use case..

SMARTPHONEPC said:
Thanks Ok she didn't mention that price required a 2 year contract (& was within a broader conversation of plans available outside of contracts).. well I guess if someone is unsure of how the Note2 on T-Mobile would work for them, they can could still get it for the above deal to test out for 14 days & return it for full refund to get out of that contract & then buy it online for full $650+tax if satisfied right?
http://prepaid-phones.t-mobile.com/monthly-4g-plans (not just Walmart it seems but $30/mo or $28.50/month for email discount refills is impressively less than I'm currently paying for my inferior EVO non-existent "4G"service on Sprint compounded by their slow 3G)..
Users can still easily go to other T-Mobile off contract plans if this $30/mo total plan doesn't best support their use case in following months right?
I don't think I want to deal with contracts if there is a better option for my use case..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Of course. It's a no-contract prepaid plan. Nothing keeping you from doing whatever you want. You could buy a Straight Talk sim and switch off between that and T-Mobile's $30 plan every month if you want.
BTW I'm on the $30 plan, bought the phone in store for $650. Best choice for me by far. The cost savings over 2 years will make the initial high price pay for itself several times over.
Also, don't completely discount T-Mobile stores. Some of them are greedy but mine had no problems activating the $30 plan. They even gave me the sim for free and had no problem adding insurance ($7) for me. My total in store was $649.99 + $30 + $7 + tax. Everything was set up in under 5 minutes. Maybe I just got lucky!

LucJoe said:
Of course. It's a no-contract prepaid plan. Nothing keeping you from doing whatever you want. You could buy a Straight Talk sim and switch off between that and T-Mobile's $30 plan every month if you want.
BTW I'm on the $30 plan, bought the phone in store for $650. Best choice for me by far. The cost savings over 2 years will make the initial high price pay for itself several times over.
Also, don't completely discount T-Mobile stores. Some of them are greedy but mine had no problems activating the $30 plan. They even gave me the sim for free and had no problem adding insurance ($7) for me. My total in store was $649.99 + $30 + $7 + tax. Everything was set up in under 5 minutes. Maybe I just got lucky!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow that's fast thanks, just wanted to make sure there are no complications-fine print (the T-Mobile store didn't mention the $250+$20/mo for 20 months would involve contracts & seemed to rather laud that it was an interest free way to buy the Note2 unsubsidized in these days of low interest rates)
Do you think it would be best to call some local T-mobile stores to see if they'll do it before showing up or will they be more likely to do it impulsively (there is at least one T-Mobile close to a frequented shopping center locally here)?
I actually noticed the $7/mo insurance including theft, loss, accidental damage etc..anything we should be aware of besides the below (people have had good experiences with it?):
Thnx
http://prepaid-phones.t-mobile.com/prepaid-additional-services#Monthly4GHandsetProtection
http://www.t-mobile.com/Company/pdf/WP24276B_T-Mobile_NY_6.11.12.pdf
"Handset Protection* you won’t
miss a beat if your device is:
• Lost
• Stolen
• Accidentally damaged
(including water damage)
• Malfunctioning due to mechanical
or electrical failure**
Live Your Life With Confidence.
Enroll Today!
You can enroll in Monthly4G Handset Protection within
14 days of purchasing your T-Mobile®
phone with
an accompanying Monthly4G rate plan.
***
Handset
Protection is optional and is not required to purchase
the device or obtain T-Mobile wireless services.
* Benefits may also be purchased separately through an insurance
program that offers coverage in the event of accidental damage,
loss, or theft and is underwritten by American Security Insurance
Company for a monthly charge of $6; or through an extended
service contract that offers coverage against mechanical breakdown
for a monthly charge of $2. To enroll in the separate insurance or
extended service contract programs, please call 1-866-778-1044.
**Excludes mechanical or electrical breakdown covered by the
manufacturer’s warranty.
***Monthly4G Handset Protection is not available on the iPhone®
;
not all devices sold by T-Mobile are eligible for Monthly4G
Handset Protection Coverage.
More fine print:
http://wac.04c7.edgecastcdn.net/000...s/pdf/WP24276B_T-Mobile_All_States_online.pdf

SMARTPHONEPC said:
Thanks _Motoki_ are you rooted or will you root the Note2?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not rooted on the Note II. I don't want to risk messing anything up for the LTE software update T-Mobile should hopefully push, eventually.
I was rooted on my last phone which was just a cheap Samsung Exhibit II that bought when I switched over from Virgin until I could get something better.
Sent from my SGH-T889 using Tapatalk 2

For what it's worth, I am running Solavei($49 unlimited everything including 4G) vs the $30 plan from T-Mobile (although I have the t-mobile sim, just in case). I am loving the coverage... and I am even more impressed with the download speeds. Attached a pic to show how good it is. (the 11mb speed is sitting in a dave and busters in columbia, MD, the slow 600k speed is sitting in the back corner of a pizza joint in columbia for lunch, with edge connectivity).
If you ask me, it's a better deal than the $30 plan.

mdt73 said:
For what it's worth, I am running Solavei($49 unlimited everything including 4G) vs the $30 plan from T-Mobile (although I have the t-mobile sim, just in case). I am loving the coverage... and I am even more impressed with the download speeds. Attached a pic to show how good it is. (the 11mb speed is sitting in a dave and busters in columbia, MD, the slow 600k speed is sitting in the back corner of a pizza joint in columbia for lunch, with edge connectivity).
If you ask me, it's a better deal than the $30 plan.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It depends on your individual needs. I don't use much more than 100 min and if I need more, I have a little extra balance and just pay 10 cents per minute. 5gb of 4g data is good for me, then it switches to unl. at edge speeds. $20 savings for 12 months is $360- half the cost of the phone off contract! A much better deal for me than Solavei's $50/month

SMARTPHONEPC said:
Wow that's fast thanks, just wanted to make sure there are no complications-fine print (the T-Mobile store didn't mention the $250+$20/mo for 20 months would involve contracts & seemed to rather laud that it was an interest free way to buy the Note2 unsubsidized in these days of low interest rates)
Do you think it would be best to call some local T-mobile stores to see if they'll do it before showing up or will they be more likely to do it impulsively (there is at least one T-Mobile close to a frequented shopping center locally here)?
I actually noticed the $7/mo insurance including theft, loss, accidental damage etc..anything we should be aware of besides the below (people have had good experiences with it?):
Thnx
http://prepaid-phones.t-mobile.com/prepaid-additional-services#Monthly4GHandsetProtection
http://www.t-mobile.com/Company/pdf/WP24276B_T-Mobile_NY_6.11.12.pdf
"Handset Protection* you won’t
miss a beat if your device is:
• Lost
• Stolen
• Accidentally damaged
(including water damage)
• Malfunctioning due to mechanical
or electrical failure**
Live Your Life With Confidence.
Enroll Today!
You can enroll in Monthly4G Handset Protection within
14 days of purchasing your T-Mobile®
phone with
an accompanying Monthly4G rate plan.
***
Handset
Protection is optional and is not required to purchase
the device or obtain T-Mobile wireless services.
* Benefits may also be purchased separately through an insurance
program that offers coverage in the event of accidental damage,
loss, or theft and is underwritten by American Security Insurance
Company for a monthly charge of $6; or through an extended
service contract that offers coverage against mechanical breakdown
for a monthly charge of $2. To enroll in the separate insurance or
extended service contract programs, please call 1-866-778-1044.
**Excludes mechanical or electrical breakdown covered by the
manufacturer’s warranty.
***Monthly4G Handset Protection is not available on the iPhone®
;
not all devices sold by T-Mobile are eligible for Monthly4G
Handset Protection Coverage.
More fine print:
http://wac.04c7.edgecastcdn.net/000...s/pdf/WP24276B_T-Mobile_All_States_online.pdf
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just got done making a Loss claim with them about 2 weeks ago and they were VERY quick and the deductible was $130 and they shipped me a BRAND NEW Note 2 in it's original box w/all accessories included... Not too shabby.... Although seeing as the Note 2 just came out they def do not have any refurbs yet... I am sooooo glad I had it on my account cause I just paid almost $700 w/tax for the phone and I would much rather pay $130 rather then lose a brand new $700 phone! I woulda **** myself if I lost it with no recourse...
BTW: Their Monthly4g prepaid plans are through a different provider (insurance company) than their contract plans and I have heard of people having hassles with the other company but not through Assurance...

I use ensquared for my insurance. $58 a year. $75 deductible. 2 phones can be replaced. Covers loss, theft, accidents and the normal coverage. Hard to beat.
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda premium
---------- Post added at 11:32 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:31 PM ----------
sashusmom said:
It depends on your individual needs. I don't use much more than 100 min and if I need more, I have a little extra balance and just pay 10 cents per minute. 5gb of 4g data is good for me, then it switches to unl. at edge speeds. $20 savings for 12 months is $360- half the cost of the phone off contract! A much better deal for me than Solavei's $50/month
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Recheck your math. Also, do you have a house phone?
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda premium

Wish I signed up that $30 plan before signed my contract.
Is there a way to sign up for 2nd line under the $30 dollar plan and port my number to that 2nd line then cancel the 1st line?
I want to keep my same number.

mdt73 said:
I use ensquared for my insurance. $58 a year. $75 deductible. 2 phones can be replaced. Covers loss, theft, accidents and the normal coverage. Hard to beat.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sounds like an interesting alternative but I'd have to read that fine print:
http://www.ensquared.com/catalog/phone-insurance/1-year-phone-insurance-smartphone
http://www.ensquared.com/1_Year_Phone_Insurance_Terms.htm
http://www.ensquared.com/catalog/phone-insurance/2-year-phone-insurance-smartphone
http://www.ensquared.com/2_Year_Phone_Insurance_Terms.htm

I picked up A Note II Saturday off CL for a decent price. White too...all the stores had were the grey ones. I had preordered a sim activation kit from T-Mobile http://prepaid-phones.t-mobile.com/prepaid-phone/T-Mobile-Prepaid-SIM-Activation-Kit for .99 cents and then did the activation online when I got the phone. Smooth as silk and I am getting surprisingly good data speeds. 8-16MB
Cheers

shojus said:
I just got done making a Loss claim with them about 2 weeks ago and they were VERY quick and the deductible was $130 and they shipped me a BRAND NEW Note 2 in it's original box w/all accessories included... Not too shabby.... Although seeing as the Note 2 just came out they def do not have any refurbs yet... I am sooooo glad I had it on my account cause I just paid almost $700 w/tax for the phone and I would much rather pay $130 rather then lose a brand new $700 phone! I woulda **** myself if I lost it with no recourse...
BTW: Their Monthly4g prepaid plans are through a different provider (insurance company) than their contract plans and I have heard of people having hassles with the other company but not through Assurance...
---
Verizon S3 32gb in white w/unlimited LTE
T-mobile Note 2 16gb in Titanium
Apple iPad 3rd gen 64gb white w/Verizon LTE (For my 3 year old lil girl....)
Coming SOON: Nexus 4 16gb
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good to read, so the deductible shouldn't be more than $130? I might not be as happy about getting a refurb in the future however. If it didn't cover theft, loss, accidental damage I wouldn't bother considering it but at $7/mo over T-Mobile competitive plans sounds like a more reasonable consideration to take some of the sting out of some unfortunate event.
I'm still somewhat debating the $30/mo prepaid for the Note2 which you point out uses a different insurer or some of their reasonable contract plans. I'm also considering a Nexus 4 as a second device which I'd likely do on this $30/mo prepaid plan likely without insurance considering its lower unit cost, are you planning on getting insurance for your Nexus 4?
Could you comment on your experiences with T-Mobile Vs your Verizon service? Thnx

T-Mobile Will End Phone Subsidies Next Year

Well guess i should start saving for my Galaxy Note 3 now huh,this sucks but if this will keep them in business,I'm kinda fine with it. http://www.businessinsider.com/t-mobile-to-end-phone-subsidies-2012-12
Updated Info: http://m.intomobile.com/2012/12/11/...ed&utm_campaign=Feed:+IntoMobile+(IntoMobile)
---◆-----◇------◆------◇-----◆-----
☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★
Device:T889 Galaxy Note 2
Rom: Xquizt N2 v6+Kitchen Aroma v6
Kernel: Perseus-alpha26.1(Clocked @1.1ghz & UV @-50mV 200ghz-1.1ghz)

This is fine with me except, T-Mo will still expect their customers to sign a two year contract just like they do with the current Value plans.
That is the problem!!

atomclock said:
This is fine with me except, T-Mo will still expect their customers to sign a two year contract just like they do with the current Value plans.
That is the problem!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow,that kinda sucks...
---◆-----◇------◆------◇-----◆-----
☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★
Device:T889 Galaxy Note 2
Rom: Xquizt N2 v6+Kitchen Aroma v6
Kernel: Perseus-alpha26.1(Clocked @1.1ghz & UV @-50mV 200ghz-1.1ghz)

atomclock said:
This is fine with me except, T-Mo will still expect their customers to sign a two year contract just like they do with the current Value plans.
That is the problem!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What do you propose, that they turn their whole business to prepaid? They'll be bankrupted in less than a year.
Sent from my SGH-T889 using Tapatalk 2

Theres no way they can charge full retail for a device and expect you to sign a two year agreement as well. Im positive the phones will be discounted.

Most the GSM world doesn't subsidize their phones, and they have much more competitive prepaid plans. The average American is so used to phone costing $99 or even free, they don't realize that the provider is making a killing on their contract.
And if this drives down the value of t-mobile enough for Google to buy them, I am all for it!

fix-this! said:
Theres no way they can charge full retail for a device and expect you to sign a two year agreement as well. Im positive the phones will be discounted.
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Maybe they wont charge for cancellation if the customer decide to cancel before the end of the contract. And if the customer decide to cancel his contract he is going to pay the rest of his phone before canceling.

fix-this! said:
Theres no way they can charge full retail for a device and expect you to sign a two year agreement as well. Im positive the phones will be discounted.
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They already do that. You must sign a two year contract to get their plan pricing.

This is fine by me as i usualy switch phones every 4-6 months. Craigslist is where i usually shop.

mdt73 said:
They already do that. You must sign a two year contract to get their plan pricing.
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Yeah, we've been doing it since August of last year, the value plan is nothing new, and it ends up being the same price monthly or even less depending on the phone you get. And you pay less up front for the phone.

I don't know about you guys freaking out, but they're simply getting rid of the Classic Plans and moving everyone onto the Value Plans...
Since I always buy my phone off contract, this is better since I save more month to month

achusaysblessyou said:
I don't know about you guys freaking out, but they're simply getting rid of the Classic Plans and moving everyone onto the Value Plans...
Since I always buy my phone off contract, this is better since I save more month to month
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For me, this isn't great news depending on the details. If they're going to do away with grandfathered plans, then my phone bill would go up even with the value plan. If they allow grandfathered plans to stay, then it's not that big of a deal.

Value plan phones are less money up front than the subsidy ones and the plans are still cheaper month to month with the EIP. Not sure about "upgrades" before two years is up though.

nmw407 said:
For me, this isn't great news depending on the details. If they're going to do away with grandfathered plans, then my phone bill would go up even with the value plan. If they allow grandfathered plans to stay, then it's not that big of a deal.
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I think once you upgrade your phone through some sort of subsidy (i.e. EIP on value plan) they will make you change your plan. So as long as you bring you own phone (which means paying full price without any subsidy) you will be able to keep your grandfathered plan.

with the new plans you would be saving $20-$30 a month on your bill and you can choose to buy the phone in full price right there or choose to buy the month in full price but through monthly installments which will still save you money over a 2 yr contract compared to todays model

GMAN1722 said:
I think once you upgrade your phone through some sort of subsidy (i.e. EIP on value plan) they will make you change your plan. So as long as you bring you own phone (which means paying full price without any subsidy) you will be able to keep your grandfathered plan.
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Right now T-Mobile is not forcing you to change your plan when you upgrade your phone(s), but who knows what that may look like next year. I'm just glad we upgraded phones this year and I'll be all set for at least 2 years.

whatsitsnamenow said:
What do you propose, that they turn their whole business to prepaid? They'll be bankrupted in less than a year.
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I believe T-Mobile is going to turn into contract only service. And Metro PCS is going to be the prepaid service. This is what I believe is the plan with the merge of T-Mobile and Metro PCS.
I guess just different naming product services under what will be the same roof.
I also wonder if Metro PCS will keep the $10.00 per month international calling plan after this merge? My wife has that service because she calls Peru so much.
All this makes me wonder if this merge is worth it for us customers or not?

GMAN1722 said:
I think once you upgrade your phone through some sort of subsidy (i.e. EIP on value plan) they will make you change your plan. So as long as you bring you own phone (which means paying full price without any subsidy) you will be able to keep your grandfathered plan.
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They made me change my plan when I got my now 140.00 note 2 after 100 rebate . It cost the same. I got now unlimited text / before 300 unlimited internet / before none at all 1000 mins / before 750 :good::highfive::victory:

Classic plans are the same if not more then value plan, America refuses to see the true value of devices they still expect a phone to be free or really low cost. I think what tmobile is doing is great but I can also see the main reason is so they can carry the iPhone without paying the hefty fee other carriers have been paying to subsidize it. Everybody complains about buying the note 2 on classic and how tmobiles subsidized prices are too high compared to other carriers yet they don't also charge you the price other carriers do for the service. Value as I see it is the best thing you can have if you love changing your phone buy and sell at the right times and you can get yourself a new phone very often spending much less then doing it on contract, granted you will always pay some sort of out of pocket but that's the cost we paying for the love of our tech. I think if you put the note on eip you owe 400 make ten payments which is just ten months you will owe 200 in ten months, I'm sure the note can still go for 300 or more so you sell pay it off and buy your new device. Value plans with eip tend to be a bit less then classic and a good amount less then other carriers so yes the contract portion is hard to swallow but in the end tmobile is financing you a phone without regards to your credit with no interest and giving you a lower monthly rate. Value is a good system for the smart buyer and I'd be ok with the contract the way I see it tmobile still took a risk financing you for the contract and hopefully they continue there trends with good phone sales people who bought the note on the recent sale after rebate got the note for 500 which is a steal on this device at full cost.
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After watching the video I understand what they are planning with the service plans packages. Classic Plan no more. Value Plan is it. You can buy the device full price from T-Mobile or somewhere else then go for the Value Plan. Or you can go for the Value Plan and make payments toward your device, which would add to the cost of what is now the Classic Plan. I feel that this is good long term for the customer's pocket and to educate the customer of the truth of subsidies plan packages from other carriers.
When it comes to the merger: I would not of went to T-Mobile without having the knowledge that they merging with Metro PCS. I had a good feeling that this merger is a good thing, just didn't know how it would play out.
I am also curious on how the branding, especially the company names, is going to play out. The way they are talking it looks like they may have changed plans on the name banding plans.