One of the major new features in iOS 6 is the ability to make FaceTime calls using a cellular connection, something that in previous versions of iOS required a WiFi connection. While this would likely impact data usage on your account, it should be at the user’s discretion on how we use our data. Not so according to a report from 9to5Mac, who suggest AT&T will handle FaceTime over cellular similar to how they handled the iOS Personal Hotspot feature, by charging an additional fee. When attempting to make a FaceTime over cellular call, a prompt comes up to contact AT&T to enable the feature. No sure prompt comes up on Verizon device, also on iOS 6 beta 3.
AT&T has issued the following statement, which offers zero clarity as to their position.
We’re working closely with Apple on the new developer build of iOS6 and we’ll share more information with our customers as it becomes available.
Not good folks.
Source: 9to5mac
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Does anybody really use this feature frequently enough to justify paying for it?
Agree Tyger…I’ve had an iPhone from both carriers for about a year and I half and other than testing it once, I never use it.
I cannot imagine anyone being surprised by AT&T being at the forefront, not of innovation or service, but in ways to bleed more money from their customers.
Not that VZW wouldn’t follow suite at some point, but it is almost comical that AT&T is always right out front with issues like this.
I agree but everyone always follow AT&T at some point. They got rid of unlimited data first then everyone but Sprint followed and they will soon as well. AT&T always takes the bold steps first then the other clowns follow after. I would never pay extra for FaceTime. If I need it which I don’t I would use it on wifi or with a jailbroken iPhone. Other apps such as tango makes video calls over data so I don’t understand why they would charge on for FaceTime. This American greed by the cellphone companies need to stop and we’re the only ones that can stop it from continuing.
I don’t understand why the data from FaceTime can’t be used against the current data plan you already have. For that matter, it doesn’t make sense to charge for tethering because you’re STILL using the same data. Next thing we’ll see if that they will charge extra if you are using Netflix. I am SO glad I am not with AT&T anymore.
They will charge for ANYTHING…
Talk about squeezing every dime out of users!! Things like this justify jail breaking your iPhone. (3G Unrestrictor)
Charging customers for how they choose to use their purchased data plans does not make much sense to me. In fact it makes as much sense as buying a bottle of water, then paying an additional fee to drink, pour away, or lose the already purchased bottle of water. Why not let individuals blow through their data plans using FaceTime over 3G or tethering if that is what they choose to do?