Whopping 25% Increase In Monthly Cost
Count me as one of the many thousands of Verizon subscribers who are angry about the screwing we got on January 18th when the mandatory $9.99 per month data package was imposed on what used to be considered very basic phones. Some marketing genious at Verizon rechristened the category 3G Multimedia for no reason other than rate increases.
This means that if, when it dies, I chose to replace my LG enV² VX-9100 with a virtually identical enV³ VX-9200 it will cost me an additional $120 per year for each of my two lines. I.e. $240 per year for absolutely no benefit, since the $1.99 per MB is more than enough for my infrequent needs and my wife never uses the web on her phone at all. However, we both find occasional texting much more ...
(continues)
This means that if, when it dies, I chose to replace my LG enV² VX-9100 with a virtually identical enV³ VX-9200 it will cost me an additional $120 per year for each of my two lines. I.e. $240 per year for absolutely no benefit, since the $1.99 per MB is more than enough for my infrequent needs and my wife never uses the web on her phone at all. However, we both find occasional texting much more ...
(continues)
...
Most likely, because you can not have a Blackberry / Smartphone under the network without the data plan.
...
The Blackberries and Smartphones are "data" phones and have always required a minimum $29.99 per month data plan.
I'm concerned with basic QWERTY keyboard phones that were never considered "data" phones before their "renaming" on January 18, 2010. People who bought an enV³ on January 17th will never pay the additional $9.99 per month.
I'm concerned with basic QWERTY keyboard phones that were never considered "data" phones before their "renaming" on January 18, 2010. People who bought an enV³ on January 17th will never pay the additional $9.99 per month.
...
Not all Smartphones required the data plan, actually. Like the Multimedia phones, they started to require the data plan as well.. I believe this was in 2007? You would have to have the data plan on the phone when you activated the Smartphone that would then require the data plan. When activating the smartphone, you would have to contact customer care to activate it properly
(or else you'd get an error). I would imagine it would be the same way with multimedia phones that now require the data plan.
(or else you'd get an error). I would imagine it would be the same way with multimedia phones that now require the data plan.
...
That's actually not true. If they deactivate that phone for any reason and then reactivate it they will have the fee. As will you.
...
I agree that the change was poorly handled, so please don't take this as defending the change. but at the same time, the Env3 is hardly the same thing as the 2, it was upgraded a lot more than most phones are.
the env3 adds:
-3Mp camera with flash (over 2mp)
-Full HTML Browser
-Contact conversation view for texting (aka, threaded)
-Improved music player
-nicer internal and external screen
Compare that to the 83xx series. where it's basically the same phone every year.
To answer your question, any env3 you try to activate will incur the data since it is the phone that requires it. This isn't like the data plan requirement for smartphones (how it should've been handled) but more like what ATT did for smartphones (where it was ...
(continues)
the env3 adds:
-3Mp camera with flash (over 2mp)
-Full HTML Browser
-Contact conversation view for texting (aka, threaded)
-Improved music player
-nicer internal and external screen
Compare that to the 83xx series. where it's basically the same phone every year.
To answer your question, any env3 you try to activate will incur the data since it is the phone that requires it. This isn't like the data plan requirement for smartphones (how it should've been handled) but more like what ATT did for smartphones (where it was ...
(continues)
...
Exactly! $30 discounted off a phone is a far cry from the boss $100 NE2 credit customers once received. Of course, the phones are cheaper these days. I would go so far as to say not only should they change to a family share plan, but that the secondary line should only do a one year contract. That way both lines will be eligible to upgrade within a year. I wish customers were not so short-sighted.
...
Even if they got the full $100 discount.. they are still spending an additional $240 over two years for that discount.
...
Azeron,
Yes, that $100, down to $50, down to $30 NE2 discount has also been a ripoff that has only fattened the VZW bottom line. Now that I'm at decision making time, I still have two $50 NE2 credits available. However, I'm not going to use them to do phone upgrades for quite a while, and will go month to month with our enV² phones to at least temporarily avoid the unconscionable 25% increase in monthly cost due only to the newly categorized "3G Multimedia" name for a virtually identical device, the enV³.
I might consider the suggestion to put both lines on a family plan to lower cost a bit. But I presume that I'd lose the two $50 credits presently due me if I did that without upgrading phones immediately. I...
(continues)
Yes, that $100, down to $50, down to $30 NE2 discount has also been a ripoff that has only fattened the VZW bottom line. Now that I'm at decision making time, I still have two $50 NE2 credits available. However, I'm not going to use them to do phone upgrades for quite a while, and will go month to month with our enV² phones to at least temporarily avoid the unconscionable 25% increase in monthly cost due only to the newly categorized "3G Multimedia" name for a virtually identical device, the enV³.
I might consider the suggestion to put both lines on a family plan to lower cost a bit. But I presume that I'd lose the two $50 credits presently due me if I did that without upgrading phones immediately. I...
(continues)
...
Upgrade first, make sure you like your equipment, then change your rate plans.
...
Be careful doing this. I'm not sure if it's the case at every Verizon Wireless location but in some stores, it is required that you maintain a price plan of at least 34.99 for 6 months after receiving your NE2 discount. If you switch one of those lines to a secondary at 9.99 a month, you could get charged back the discount you received.
And to answer your previous question, f38urry, you will only lose one $50 NE2 credit. Which ever line you choose to make the primary line in your family share plan will keep the $50 NE2 credit. That credit will not expire.
And to answer your previous question, f38urry, you will only lose one $50 NE2 credit. Which ever line you choose to make the primary line in your family share plan will keep the $50 NE2 credit. That credit will not expire.
...
Only certain retailers do this. The main reason this happens is that it takes Verizon several months to pay these stores so if you change your plan, they don't pay the store that NE2 commission.
The company I worked for considered doing this for a time, and then remembered that they could just charge the store that sold the upgrade back and not take any of the loss themselves (the do the same with cancellations)
The company I worked for considered doing this for a time, and then remembered that they could just charge the store that sold the upgrade back and not take any of the loss themselves (the do the same with cancellations)
...
f38rry.
The max discount they used to give on phones (before NE2) was 120.
On the EnV3, the discount is well over 200 dollars.
You want to move to a family plan after you upgrade
The max discount they used to give on phones (before NE2) was 120.
On the EnV3, the discount is well over 200 dollars.
You want to move to a family plan after you upgrade
...
They're virtually identical for what you use them for, they are not virtually identical in spec
...
Whichever became the secondary line would no longer be eligible for NE2. One might use the upgrade for that line BEFORE changing the plan. Also, if you are currently receiving any corporate discounts the secondary line would no longer receive that percentage off. Of course, if you are receiving such a discount and failed to mention it then this equation you are posting is a bit off.
...
Azeron,
Thanks, I neglected to mention the 19% discount that I currently receive on each line. Oh well, much food for thought now.
Thanks, I neglected to mention the 19% discount that I currently receive on each line. Oh well, much food for thought now.
...
There's nothing fat about Verizon's bottom line when it comes to phones. If anything, it's less of a loss when they give you a lower NE2 discount. Phones are always a loss - the money comes from the monthly residuals (which you could argue about all day long without a rebuttal from me).
However, I would like to point out that when the NE2 discount was $100, phone were discounted $100 from full retail. A $250 phone was reduced to $150, you got a $50 rebate, and in the case of NE2, a $100 discount. This added up to zero. Most phones were $100 after rebate, even on the medium to low end of quality/features.
Things have changed. Subsidies are so much better than $100 now. They vary by model, but most seem to be $200 to $300, or more...
(continues)
However, I would like to point out that when the NE2 discount was $100, phone were discounted $100 from full retail. A $250 phone was reduced to $150, you got a $50 rebate, and in the case of NE2, a $100 discount. This added up to zero. Most phones were $100 after rebate, even on the medium to low end of quality/features.
Things have changed. Subsidies are so much better than $100 now. They vary by model, but most seem to be $200 to $300, or more...
(continues)
...
epik,
It's like Mr. Gillette. He knew, a century ago, that if he gave away the safety razors for free, the customers would have to keep paying for replacement blades forever.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Razor_and_blades_busine ... »
A BOGO phone just means that the subscriber now has to pay about $150.00 per month for the two talk & text plans PLUS $60.00 per month for the two data plans FOREVER. $210.00 per month revenue is not a big sacrifice for the carrier. That's billions of dollars of sense for them.
It's like Mr. Gillette. He knew, a century ago, that if he gave away the safety razors for free, the customers would have to keep paying for replacement blades forever.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Razor_and_blades_busine ... »
A BOGO phone just means that the subscriber now has to pay about $150.00 per month for the two talk & text plans PLUS $60.00 per month for the two data plans FOREVER. $210.00 per month revenue is not a big sacrifice for the carrier. That's billions of dollars of sense for them.
...
No, see, I can find you a BOGO phone that doesn't force you to pay for data plans, and no company is forcing you to get a text plan (or for that matter, service entirely).
I never said a BOGO was a big sacrifice. My point was that the business has changed (a few times).
No one signs a forever contract. They sign a year or two year. And THEY decide what phone to get based on their personal needs and budget. No one is forcing a gun to your head. If you don't want a data plan, but a phone without one. If you don't want a text plan, don't get it.
I don't want to pay for a Ferrari, so I don't get one. I don't want to pay for a Hummer or a Lexus, so I don't get one.
People make their own decisions based on all their consider...
(continues)
I never said a BOGO was a big sacrifice. My point was that the business has changed (a few times).
No one signs a forever contract. They sign a year or two year. And THEY decide what phone to get based on their personal needs and budget. No one is forcing a gun to your head. If you don't want a data plan, but a phone without one. If you don't want a text plan, don't get it.
I don't want to pay for a Ferrari, so I don't get one. I don't want to pay for a Hummer or a Lexus, so I don't get one.
People make their own decisions based on all their consider...
(continues)
...
Menno,
I appreciate your comments about the differences between the two phone models, but here are my observations:
-3Mp camera with flash (over 2mp)
The 50% MP bump is nice, but the 2MB pictures are more than OK with adequate light in an emergency. I use a real camera for serious photos. The tiny LED flash on any cell phones is a joke beyond about two feet from the lens. OK for a face photo, but useless at any other distance.
-Full HTML Browser
I believe the env² and enV³ are both 1X EV-DO and that the newly minted "3G" designation for the enV³ therefore doesn't matter to any significant degree. Even though the enV³ browser is HTML, in real hands-on use, it is just as kludgy as the enVÂÂ...
(continues)
I appreciate your comments about the differences between the two phone models, but here are my observations:
-3Mp camera with flash (over 2mp)
The 50% MP bump is nice, but the 2MB pictures are more than OK with adequate light in an emergency. I use a real camera for serious photos. The tiny LED flash on any cell phones is a joke beyond about two feet from the lens. OK for a face photo, but useless at any other distance.
-Full HTML Browser
I believe the env² and enV³ are both 1X EV-DO and that the newly minted "3G" designation for the enV³ therefore doesn't matter to any significant degree. Even though the enV³ browser is HTML, in real hands-on use, it is just as kludgy as the enVÂÂ...
(continues)
...
The thing about upgrades though is that it doesn't matter if you as the user will use them because the upgrades will exist either way (and thus have to be paid for).
What I'm trying to say is that the upgrades made to the device, even if you don't consider them important or noteworthy are HUGE for what companies typically do for their cellphone lineup.
Again, compare the:
8300-->8350(a downgrade)->8360 (still a downgrade)
or the 755-->766
5400->5500 (downgrade)-->Accolade
So yes, while you may not use the features, they still are present and they did increase the cost of the phone (I saw inventory numbers for the launch of both devices). The EnV line was always intended to be the "premium" messaging phone for verizon, not a ...
(continues)
What I'm trying to say is that the upgrades made to the device, even if you don't consider them important or noteworthy are HUGE for what companies typically do for their cellphone lineup.
Again, compare the:
8300-->8350(a downgrade)->8360 (still a downgrade)
or the 755-->766
5400->5500 (downgrade)-->Accolade
So yes, while you may not use the features, they still are present and they did increase the cost of the phone (I saw inventory numbers for the launch of both devices). The EnV line was always intended to be the "premium" messaging phone for verizon, not a ...
(continues)
...
Haha, these threads just never die, do they? While I don't agree with some of the phones they deemed as requiring data, I always find it amazing (and I'm guilty as well) that these phones have to be better and better, and have all the whistles and bells, so you can either (a) not use all the features, they just need to BE there or (b) throw them in a drawer (sell on eBay) and whine that you want the next best thing six months later. So the phones get more and more high tech, and nobody wants to pay for the phones, the data, the service...anything. Ah, America, land of the free and the spoiled... 🙄
...
mellowlen62,
If you are trying to sell to the public (I presume that you might be) you might want to change that tone about "whining" and "spoiled". It will surely affect your future income.
If you are trying to sell to the public (I presume that you might be) you might want to change that tone about "whining" and "spoiled". It will surely affect your future income.
...
they're not trying to sell the public, and it's highly unlikely that any of their customers browse the Verizon portion of the phonescoop forums.
that and threads like this one have been posted since january 15th (and for years previous with other changes). with pretty much the same list of grievances and honestly it gets tired reading them after hearing it in store/over the phone all day as well.
I have yet to meet any customer service rep from any industry who's been there more than a year that doesn't have a Cynical view of humanity. I've been in retail for 5 years, and you honestly see some of the worst of people, especially in sales.
that and threads like this one have been posted since january 15th (and for years previous with other changes). with pretty much the same list of grievances and honestly it gets tired reading them after hearing it in store/over the phone all day as well.
I have yet to meet any customer service rep from any industry who's been there more than a year that doesn't have a Cynical view of humanity. I've been in retail for 5 years, and you honestly see some of the worst of people, especially in sales.
...
You said a mouthful! Eight years in retail and two in call center and I don't even want to see the inside of a store if I can help myself. I can do all my transactions via My Verizon. If I HAVE to call CS because Verizon doesn't allow certain features to be added by customers, I keep it short and sweet.
...
get a cosmos, brigade (I have heard multiple people get it without data), or samsung intensity? If you don't use the features and don't care about Internet there are options. seriously? I played with the cosmos and I liked it for a texting phone and if you don't want Internet then why not.
...
?: 8y3m's I was w/ATT and I never had to enter a password when calling vm, the cell tower just detected my phone, it was that simple. With Vzn I *HAVE* to enter a passcode when calling. I called 611, and I was told that on most smartphones there's a way for the ph to enter the passcode automatically, and I was told to go to settings>call settings>Voicemail.
The only thing I see is where to enter the vm #, which says *86, I don't see any place to enter the password so that is done automatically when I call vm.
This is rather annoying, I don't know why the cell tower can't just automatically detect my phone, it would be nice to have the option to not have a password period.
The only thing I see is where to enter the vm #, which says *86, I don't see any place to enter the password so that is done automatically when I call vm.
This is rather annoying, I don't know why the cell tower can't just automatically detect my phone, it would be nice to have the option to not have a password period.
...
Not YOU Jay! You are really bringing me down with this. It might be nice as long as your phone never fell into the wrong hands. With most smartphones (dumb ones too) one can program a speed dial and include the pass code for voice mail. It would normally go something like this: *86p1234 The p for pause or sometimes the # symbol and then 1234 being an example pass code. You ARE within your 30 day Worry Free Guarantee period. Perhaps this is a sign that you and AT&T belong together? It's not too late to go back.
...
Azeron is right, but I would add that the *86 you see in your settings can also have the p1234# added to it.
I would use two p (pauses). Press option and you will see the pause option. Do not use wait (that means it waits for you to press a key to send the code).
1234 would be your code, whatever that is.
# just makes it go faster.
I don't bother with separate speed dials, when most phones effectively default speed dial 1 to the voicemail number as it sits in the setting you found. If you add your code to that number in the settings, you've got exactly what you need: voicemail that anyone with your phone in theirs hands can access (which most people don't care about).
I would use two p (pauses). Press option and you will see the pause option. Do not use wait (that means it waits for you to press a key to send the code).
1234 would be your code, whatever that is.
# just makes it go faster.
I don't bother with separate speed dials, when most phones effectively default speed dial 1 to the voicemail number as it sits in the setting you found. If you add your code to that number in the settings, you've got exactly what you need: voicemail that anyone with your phone in theirs hands can access (which most people don't care about).
...
"Some marketing genious at Verizon rechristened the category 3G Multimedia for no reason other than rate increases."
You're being sarcastic, but if VZW gets away with this with minimal subscriber losses, this guy deserves a raise. This is right up there with the guy who added 'Repeat' to shampoo instructions.
"we both find occasional texting much more convenient with the QWERTY keyboards than pressing the same key three times to enter a single letter."
I find that I can text with T9 without looking at the keypad on a dumb phone.
You're being sarcastic, but if VZW gets away with this with minimal subscriber losses, this guy deserves a raise. This is right up there with the guy who added 'Repeat' to shampoo instructions.
"we both find occasional texting much more convenient with the QWERTY keyboards than pressing the same key three times to enter a single letter."
I find that I can text with T9 without looking at the keypad on a dumb phone.
...
I find that I can text with T9 without looking at the keypad on a dumb phone.
You got skills
...
However skilled, he and other T9'ers are also going to be facing carpal tunnel syndrome surgery one of these years from overuse of their thumbs for texting.
...
... but wouldn't you be able to say the same for the QWERTY keyboard? considering you would be using both thumbs the same amount as you would use one? 😕
...
Nope wompwomp. I use several fingers on each hand. In fact, I rarely use a thumb.
...
Heh, I couldn't imagine using other fingers to type on my QWERTY. I feel like that would make the phone harder to hold.
...
Really? 🤨
How the heck do you pull that one off? I have yet to see that done effectivly. Do you have to place your phone down on a table then type like you would on a real size keyboard? Or are you able to hold the phone while typing?
How the heck do you pull that one off? I have yet to see that done effectivly. Do you have to place your phone down on a table then type like you would on a real size keyboard? Or are you able to hold the phone while typing?
...
w1ndex,
Any stable surface works.
Also, holding phone in one hand and hunting & pecking with the other is fine too.
Any stable surface works.
Also, holding phone in one hand and hunting & pecking with the other is fine too.
...
The use of the opposable thumb was part of the advent of the human race from the simpler primates.
...
Who did you think was going to pay for that Health Care Bill, the Democrats?
...
Copper Emeritus,
Which forum were you expecting to post in with that less than intelligent post?
Which forum were you expecting to post in with that less than intelligent post?
...
Oh lighten up. Just bringing a little levity to the post. It was something different to read for a change!
...
ALL cellular carriers needs to open up to unbranded, unsubsidized, contract-free equipment with TOTAL (voice+messaging+data) MINIMUM charges in the $20/month range.
THEN let people add on whatever packages they want on a relatively linear pay-per-use pricing system (which would be really easy to develop).
Minimum data mandates are fine for subsidized equipment purchases. The problem is that it's nearly impossible to get an unsubsidized phone that lacks the mandates applied to the subsidized model on some carriers, particularly CDMA outfits. That's shameful.
THEN let people add on whatever packages they want on a relatively linear pay-per-use pricing system (which would be really easy to develop).
Minimum data mandates are fine for subsidized equipment purchases. The problem is that it's nearly impossible to get an unsubsidized phone that lacks the mandates applied to the subsidized model on some carriers, particularly CDMA outfits. That's shameful.
...
The problem with that model are perks like "unlimited nights and weekends" or "free in calling." a lot of people who claim to rarely use their minutes use 1200+ in unlimited in calling
...
Looked at this phone today. The build is nice. Camera is good. Screen is bright and clear. The keyboard is nice and easy to use. No data required. You can also put a Micro SD card in it.
...
I haven't read all the other remarks, and frankly, I can probably guess what a lot of them say. If my comments are duplication, go on with your life. I had better things to do this weekend than worry about your complaints about overpaying when you're GROSSLY overpaying anyway.
So here's the first thing. If your Env3 gives up on you, and you get a warranty/out-of-warranty/insurance replacement, you have nothing to worry about. As long as you didn't buy a brand-new model, you're fine. Stop worrying about it. Buy cost-consciously on your next upgrade.
Now, here's where I need to point out how crazy you are. Verizon loves you - not because you could be paying an extra $239.76 per line on data plans, but because you've been paying th...
(continues)
So here's the first thing. If your Env3 gives up on you, and you get a warranty/out-of-warranty/insurance replacement, you have nothing to worry about. As long as you didn't buy a brand-new model, you're fine. Stop worrying about it. Buy cost-consciously on your next upgrade.
Now, here's where I need to point out how crazy you are. Verizon loves you - not because you could be paying an extra $239.76 per line on data plans, but because you've been paying th...
(continues)
...
While it would have been beneficial for me to read through everything, mentioning the 19% discount would have been a good thing to mention to begin with.
...
$32.39 x 2 = $64.68
$48.60 + $9.99 = $58.59
He's paying an extra $5.99 per month. Eh...you're right though. For someone so cost conscious...
I say stick with the Envy 2s until they die. When they do purchase two Envy 3s on Ebay and port his numbers to Page Plus and get their unlimited text and talk plan using Verizon's network for $39.99 per line. No forced data plan. How much money would he save then?
$84.66 (VZW with data plans)
$79.98 (Page Plus)
$4.68 in monthly savings! Yay!
$48.60 + $9.99 = $58.59
He's paying an extra $5.99 per month. Eh...you're right though. For someone so cost conscious...
I say stick with the Envy 2s until they die. When they do purchase two Envy 3s on Ebay and port his numbers to Page Plus and get their unlimited text and talk plan using Verizon's network for $39.99 per line. No forced data plan. How much money would he save then?
$84.66 (VZW with data plans)
$79.98 (Page Plus)
$4.68 in monthly savings! Yay!
...
He also mentioned he was going to keep the Env2 "until it dies," at which time who knows what things will look like. I still have people retiring LG 6100s from 2004/2005. With good luck and care, the Env2 could last them a long time. The company, plans, the industry could all change by then. Maybe we'll all be sporting borg implants by then, and the $10 data plan will be moot.
Still, as far as I'm concerned, even six dollars of savings per month is worth it.
Think of it this way: a NE2 discount of $30 is $1.50 a month. If you could "accrue" that, at least in your mind, you'd have $30 in twenty months when your NE2 would kick in. But to get that $1.50 each month, you need to spend $6 a month. So, I have you put $6 in my jar, and ...
(continues)
Still, as far as I'm concerned, even six dollars of savings per month is worth it.
Think of it this way: a NE2 discount of $30 is $1.50 a month. If you could "accrue" that, at least in your mind, you'd have $30 in twenty months when your NE2 would kick in. But to get that $1.50 each month, you need to spend $6 a month. So, I have you put $6 in my jar, and ...
(continues)
...
I am using a VX6100 myself. I would like to find a nice VX8300 but I kept being outbid on Ebay.
...
For the "mid range" phones AT&T requires a feature plan... but you get to choose, instead of if being chosen for you.
$30 a month unlimited texting plan covers requirements for both phones. No data plan needed.
And if you DO need data? unlimited for a dumb-phone is $10 a month NOT $30 a month.
Verizon has a bigger network... it's your choice to support that biggest network/biggest bill... or not.
$30 a month unlimited texting plan covers requirements for both phones. No data plan needed.
And if you DO need data? unlimited for a dumb-phone is $10 a month NOT $30 a month.
Verizon has a bigger network... it's your choice to support that biggest network/biggest bill... or not.
...
they don't have unlimited texting though (from the sound of it) if they only have the 10 plan.. then switching to ATT would be the same net cost per month
...
That's correct Menno. "switching to ATT would be the same net cost per month" It was made quite clear when both Verizon and AT&T came out with their new , more profiable plans within a day of one another in January.
It used to be called RESTRAINT OF TRADE and was prosecutable under the anti-trust laws.
It used to be called RESTRAINT OF TRADE and was prosecutable under the anti-trust laws.
...
only if it's shown that they colluded and it wasn't just some corporate spywork. The two companies are so big and have so much overlap that if one moves the other HAS to move, or there will be serious repercussions.
...
Exactly. AT&T has been mirroring Verizon's every move since Sigman was calling the shots. His unabashed admiration for Verizon's business structure (as expressed in the Business week interview) was shocking at the time, but they followed through and the iphone surely put them over the top. Seems to be working well.
...
Sounds like you are a simple person with simple needs so you need a simple phone. Take the LG Cosmos or the Samsung Intensity. Both a querty and are simple phones. The ENV3 is a full featured phone, that is why it requires a small data plan, by small I mean about $0.30 per day. What can you buy for that in htis day and age?
...
Celling_it,
Thank you for your suggestions. I've found the Intensity to have a very flimsy feel and it hasn't received particularly good reviews. The Cosmos/Rumor/Banter has also not gotten glowing reviews or comments. Both are significant steps down from the enV² class of which the enV³ is just a slightly more featured varient. My point has been that it doesn't justify the additional $10 per month/$120 per year per line.
The only REAL rationale was that Verizon was reacting to the inadvertant use of data by a very small minority of subscribers who accidentally pressed their browser buttons and incurred $1.99 per MB charges that had to be credited because Verizon didn't just offer a software update to prevent the inadv...
(continues)
Thank you for your suggestions. I've found the Intensity to have a very flimsy feel and it hasn't received particularly good reviews. The Cosmos/Rumor/Banter has also not gotten glowing reviews or comments. Both are significant steps down from the enV² class of which the enV³ is just a slightly more featured varient. My point has been that it doesn't justify the additional $10 per month/$120 per year per line.
The only REAL rationale was that Verizon was reacting to the inadvertant use of data by a very small minority of subscribers who accidentally pressed their browser buttons and incurred $1.99 per MB charges that had to be credited because Verizon didn't just offer a software update to prevent the inadv...
(continues)
...
I know this may not sound like a cheaper way out, but reviewers and users are pretty much raving about the GZ'One Brigade. It has full qwerty, extremely rugged, waterproof (saw a video review where it was dropped in a bowl of water for a few seconds and worked fine), push to talk capability, camera/ camcorder with led flash that can double as a flashlight and from what I hear decent battery life. I used to work in the construction industry installing communications equipment and any of the guys who carried this type of phone (GZ'One Boulder and Rock flip phones) swore by them. It does not require data BUT... currently costs $250 with 2 year agreement. I understand where you're coming from with the required data and I was the same way until i...
(continues)
(continues)
...
the intensity gets higher reviews than the Env3... so I don't know what you're talking about
...
There have been plenty of very thoughtful and useful comments on this thread. And a few we could all have done without.
Of course, I'll always feel that the $9.99 mandatory data plan for less-than-smart phones (causing that Whopping 25% increase in monthly cost for light users who still want a decent phone with a QWERTY keyboard) is a ripoff, but thank you for all of the healthy suggestions.
Of course, I'll always feel that the $9.99 mandatory data plan for less-than-smart phones (causing that Whopping 25% increase in monthly cost for light users who still want a decent phone with a QWERTY keyboard) is a ripoff, but thank you for all of the healthy suggestions.
...
You're welcome.
For my own part, I apologize for my brash commentary. I DO NOT LIKE THE $9.99 DATA PLANS AS THEY ARE. I think there should be better selection between the categories, and I believe that some phones with data shouldn't have been in their categories.
I'm usually very fair and forthcoming with kind words. Some have even claimed that I'm too soft on this board, and one person has told me that I'm too fair to both sides of an argument.
But with this argument, I fail to see the problem. Let me tell you why...
I have pushed LG as the premium brand for just shy of seven years. From the days of the LG 3100 and 6000, all the way through the Cosmos, I've been selling LG more than any brand. I've seen Motorola take the ...
(continues)
For my own part, I apologize for my brash commentary. I DO NOT LIKE THE $9.99 DATA PLANS AS THEY ARE. I think there should be better selection between the categories, and I believe that some phones with data shouldn't have been in their categories.
I'm usually very fair and forthcoming with kind words. Some have even claimed that I'm too soft on this board, and one person has told me that I'm too fair to both sides of an argument.
But with this argument, I fail to see the problem. Let me tell you why...
I have pushed LG as the premium brand for just shy of seven years. From the days of the LG 3100 and 6000, all the way through the Cosmos, I've been selling LG more than any brand. I've seen Motorola take the ...
(continues)
...
The Chocolate was the beginning of the end, wasn't it? But that damned Voyager! Grrrrr...
...
Epic do you push the Motorola Barrage much? I stand my this phone hardcore. No reset reboots or whatever, solid solid reception and call clarity and nice loud ear piece. I dunno but to me it's the only phone verizon has right now that's worth a damn.
...
I'm not a VZW employee but my phone has never had a problem either, the Moto Entice. Something I was wondering about and maybe you reps can explain this. Everyone seems to hate Motorola phones. The funny this is since my I have only owned 2 brands of phones. Starting from the earliest Microtac 650e, Nokia 252, Nokia 5800i (can't be sure on that model but it was the 5800 series), v60i, v262 & 276 (crap), v325, W385, Razr2 (that got water damage), W755 and finally the 766 Entice. So apart from 2 phones I have had no problems with Moto so as I asked before, what's with Moto bashing? Is it just that they don't have a lot of features or was it the problems with the V3 Razr? I'm just trying to understand because I have never had any reason to fee...
(continues)
(continues)
...
Sorry that Nokia was a 5185i, not a 5800 series. Not that it matters, just wanted to be accurate.
...
I think the biggest issue I saw was with the slower processors and minimal memory allocations. The phones would drag along at times. But really, the phones were consistently decent, just not up to par with the needs of the texting generation.
The RAZR era was difficult. Before the RAZR, Motos performed exceptionally well. With RAZR, Motorola had to turn down some of the quality to fit everything into less than half an inch, creating a lot of issues for people who'd been using them for a very long time. After that, they just couldn't let go of the RAZR mentality, design-wise.
The RAZR era was difficult. Before the RAZR, Motos performed exceptionally well. With RAZR, Motorola had to turn down some of the quality to fit everything into less than half an inch, creating a lot of issues for people who'd been using them for a very long time. After that, they just couldn't let go of the RAZR mentality, design-wise.
...
That's funny, I just replied to someone in my smartphone post and told them that was one of the problems I had with the Razr. It was to thin & wide, kinda felt uncomfortable in the hand. I like something with a little depth to it. Not a Moto Brick or anything, but a little depth isn't so bad to me.
...
Geez, I was beginning to think I was the only one out there who hated LG....
...
One day I came home from work and decided to take my wife out for dinner and go buy a new suit for work. My wife and I decided we would like a steak dinner, so we jumped in the car and went to a near by restaurant. After being seated, a waitress came over to take our order. We told her that we would both like the prime rib steak, “Greatâ€Â, she says, “which appetizer would you each like to go with thatâ€Â, I said ‘â€ÂNo thanks, we don’t want an appetizer, all we want is our steak dinner†she then says “ I’m sorry sir, but if you want the steak dinner you have to each buy an appetizerâ€Â,†but we don’t want an appetizer, all we want is a steak dinner†than she saysâ€...
(continues)
(continues)
...
And when was the last time the steakhouse, the men's store, and the gas station subsidized your meal, your suit, or your gasoline?
When was the last time you walked into the steakhouse and requested a free steak simply because you've been a loyal customer for five years?
When was the last time you were at the men's store and threatened to cancel the frequency of your business and buy your suits somewhere else when they don't throw in a free tie or cuff-links?
And when was the last time you demanded a refund from the gas station simply because you spilled gasoline on the ground when you were not paying attention to the pump?
When you use an example, it might help to check and see if the example closely resembles the situation yo...
(continues)
When was the last time you walked into the steakhouse and requested a free steak simply because you've been a loyal customer for five years?
When was the last time you were at the men's store and threatened to cancel the frequency of your business and buy your suits somewhere else when they don't throw in a free tie or cuff-links?
And when was the last time you demanded a refund from the gas station simply because you spilled gasoline on the ground when you were not paying attention to the pump?
When you use an example, it might help to check and see if the example closely resembles the situation yo...
(continues)
...
Where did you get that Verizon subsidized any phones. They are not in charity business.
Actually they love to 'subsidize' a phone, they
wants to sell long term contract, which has price of the phone build into it. You not getting anything for free from Verizon, or at
reduced price, initially it might look to you
that it so, but is not. I have been in business way too long, and understand the power of smart marketing. You do not get anything for free from anybody, or subsidized, and that includes Verizon.
Actually they love to 'subsidize' a phone, they
wants to sell long term contract, which has price of the phone build into it. You not getting anything for free from Verizon, or at
reduced price, initially it might look to you
that it so, but is not. I have been in business way too long, and understand the power of smart marketing. You do not get anything for free from anybody, or subsidized, and that includes Verizon.
...
Your response to me is confusing and disjointed. I wish you would clarify it.
Where did I get that Verizon subsidizes phones? How about working for Verizon for seven years, understanding quite well how the business works, AND being able to pull up the inventory control system at any time and actually see what the average cost per unit is on any Verizon product? Who do you think you're talking to? I know full well how this business works. Business... as in a FOR PROFIT organization.
(continues)
Where did you get that Verizon subsidized any phones. They are not in charity business.
Where did I get that Verizon subsidizes phones? How about working for Verizon for seven years, understanding quite well how the business works, AND being able to pull up the inventory control system at any time and actually see what the average cost per unit is on any Verizon product? Who do you think you're talking to? I know full well how this business works. Business... as in a FOR PROFIT organization.
Actually they love to 'subsidize' a phone, they...
wants to sell long term contract, which has price of the phone build into it.
(continues)
...
Epik, I did not jump on you, and yes I admit, I don't have wireless experience, but why would any carrier subsidize anybody? I assume because they at the end make money, isn't that
what is all about. And I was not sarcastic.
But thanks for clarifying for me.
what is all about. And I was not sarcastic.
But thanks for clarifying for me.
...
Ok.. here is the reason he wrote what he did:
the person he was replying to said that when he bought a suite, a steak, or gas he was not forced to get something extra.
Epik replied that this was true because you paid FULL PRICE for those items. With cellphones, you do not, so the comparison is not valid.
YES companies are subsidizing because there is something in it for them, and one of the thing is that it gets people on required plans (and in turn these devices got higher subsidies).
If customers were willing to shell out 500-600 for their cellphones instead of 149.99, you wouldn't have nearly as many "required" plans.
the person he was replying to said that when he bought a suite, a steak, or gas he was not forced to get something extra.
Epik replied that this was true because you paid FULL PRICE for those items. With cellphones, you do not, so the comparison is not valid.
YES companies are subsidizing because there is something in it for them, and one of the thing is that it gets people on required plans (and in turn these devices got higher subsidies).
If customers were willing to shell out 500-600 for their cellphones instead of 149.99, you wouldn't have nearly as many "required" plans.
...
The problem here is that even if I choose to pay full retail for an Envy Touch, Verizon still forces me to have a data plan.
...
which I agree is a problem. but to get a discount on a plan (or not have to pay for features) by allowing a retail purchase, would require a total rewrite of Eroes.
...
I just wish that all the people who come on the forum woofing about canceling their service would do it. The only way to change Verizon policy is with zeroes and dollar signs. Everything else is just noise.
...
It's okay for a cell phone company to make money.
I think it's okay to subsidize the cost of the phone on a monthly bill.
Three problems IMO:
1) If I *DON'T* get a free phone, my bill is the same. Where is my savings without the free phone? T-Mobile is the only company I see that
2) Monthly Data Fee's for mid-range phones have almost nothing to do with subsidizing the phone. My Env3's were free before. They are free after. Verizon made their money back WITHOUT the $10 a month.
3) $10 a month is gravy AND only 25meg. AT&T (and others) still have cheaper data rates for... well... cheaper phones. *NO* reason why an Env3 should cost $30 a month for unlimited internet.
I think it's okay to subsidize the cost of the phone on a monthly bill.
Three problems IMO:
1) If I *DON'T* get a free phone, my bill is the same. Where is my savings without the free phone? T-Mobile is the only company I see that
2) Monthly Data Fee's for mid-range phones have almost nothing to do with subsidizing the phone. My Env3's were free before. They are free after. Verizon made their money back WITHOUT the $10 a month.
3) $10 a month is gravy AND only 25meg. AT&T (and others) still have cheaper data rates for... well... cheaper phones. *NO* reason why an Env3 should cost $30 a month for unlimited internet.
...
1) If I *DON'T* get a free phone, my bill is the same. Where is my savings without the free phone? T-Mobile is the only company I see that
You're right, and I fully believe that this should be rectified. If I were the one in charge, I'd make this change happen pronto. It could happen, but in typical Verizon style, it will probably take time.
2) Monthly Data Fee's for mid-range phones have almost nothing to do with subsidizing the phone. My Env3's were free before. They are free after. Verizon made their money back WITHOUT the $10 a month.
I agree with this, to an extent.
The Env3 is a phone that probably could have been skipped on the data requirement. The Env Touch, however, i...
(continues)
...
