iphone user beware of AT&T

Yellowspurs · 10-23-2009, 10:22 PM

I have an existing contract with AT&T and then in July, I purchased an unlocked iphone 3GS and use it but yesterday, I called AT&T to discuss some billing error and they asked me what kind of phone I use. I told them I used iphone and they said I have to pay for the data plan. I said no but they forced me to have it. Today, I checked my online service plan and they did added it in and my plan changed from $41/moth to $111/month. Since I don't need the data plan, I will switch back to my old Nokia phone but I wonder if you switch back to the iphone at a later time, will they find out ?

Anyone with knowledge about this please reply.
Thank you.

eplchamps0304 · 10-23-2009, 10:31 PM

On the last day of your billing cycle switch to a non iPhone and call ATT to remove the data. 3 days later when you bill is generated switch back to the iPhone. On the last day of your new billing cycle switch away from the iPhone again until the system generates your next bill. Do this every month. I am on the iPhone without a data plan right now. I cancelled it a few days ago. I used my iPhone 3g for 10 months straight without data this way. Just a note. With the data plan and google voice you can have unlimited domestic and international SMS for free.

TRBO VNM · 10-24-2009, 12:00 AM

so you are trying to get around the system and are pissed because they caught on? I am all for getting deals and saving money, especially now with my wife and I without jobs, but I won't go cheating the system like that. this is my first smart phone and love everything about it so far. I have no problem paying AT&T what is due to them.

sorry, rant over. I just don't understand why some people insist on doing stuff like this.

Yellowspurs · 10-24-2009, 01:29 AM

I don't see why you have to pay for something you don't use. I purchased the iphone and paid full price for it without any discount from AT&T and use it on my existing plan with AT&T. I don't need AT&T data plan because I never use it. How can you cheat if you can't even use it ? AT&T are greedy company that's all. They make you pay just because you use an iphone and not any other phone.

styfle · 10-24-2009, 01:38 AM

Unlock it and switch providers then. That will solve your problem. You could go no contract if you wanted. Since you do have a contract with ATT they own you lol.

Yellowspurs · 10-24-2009, 03:14 AM

My phone is unlock. I will get out early and pay a penalty then switch provider. AT&T will lose a customer for life. T-mobile has data plan as optional. You do not have to purchase it if you have no use for it and that's common sense.

BrownGem · 10-24-2009, 05:21 AM

Other carriers are actually adopting the policy of requiring data plans for smartphones whether you want it or not. But good luck with your switch.

ricks2gtouch · 10-24-2009, 09:14 AM

The use of a 3gs iPhone on AT&Ts network requires a data plan regardless of your actual data use. Wherever you purchased the iphone from should have disclosed that to you. AT&T is well within their rights to add a data plan to your account if you don't have one.

diverdown · 10-24-2009, 09:25 AM

Originally Posted by BrownGem

Other carriers are actually adopting the policy of requiring data plans for smartphones whether you want it or not. But good luck with your switch.

Correct...VZW requires a data plan for all of their smartphones.... I believe its $29.00 per month. It seems to be the new standard....

~S

eplchamps0304 · 10-24-2009, 10:06 AM

Because other carriers are adopting it, doesn't make it right. The OP didn't buy a subsidized phone and should not be forced to have the data plan. Its just another way for ATT to make more money of the consumer. All it takes is one person to go to court over this and things will change. I remember not long ago, if you canceled your contract with a month left, you would be charged your full ETF. Well one court ruling later and it has changed.