Verizon Smartphones? (2 Viewers)

[belljr]

Another x to maxz user here. Love it. Switch between no case and otterbox commuter

 

[Samuel L Bronkowitz]

same here. I am scared of a Samsung. Had an Omnia (windows) & it was a piece of crap. My Droid X is the best phone I have ever had. Want the newest & quadcor procesor & have to upgrade by the 28th to keep unlimited data. All S3 input appreciated!

Only the Global version of the S3 is quad core. The American version is dual core.

Not a VZW customer, but I've been watching the discussion here. I've pre-ordered my S3 through USCC. Another thing to mention is that even though the North American version is dual core, it has an extra GB of RAM that the international version does not (2GB vs 1GB). It should perform as good as the quad core.

 

[flapgreen]

Verizon customer service is horrible. I get this text yesterday from Verizon: "Last chance to get $130 off ANY new 4G LTE Smartphone! 2 yr agmt & data pak req'd. $30 upgd fee applies." I was like "HEll YEAH"! So I call Verizon to order the Galaxy S III. The guy proceeds to tell me that the discount doesn't apply to the Galaxy because the offer ends on 6/27 and the phone won't ship until 6/28. WTF! You gotta be kidding me. I'm annoyed as hell after this, so I just say forget it.

I decided I would stop by the Verizon just to make sure, though. I went through the same thing with the guy there and he also said it didn't apply. Why did it say "ANY, then?" I said. He looked at me blankly. Whatever dude. I left still annoyed. Then, I get another text today saying the same thing. I thought "what the hell" and decided to check it out online. Amazingly, it allowed me to use the discount and I only had to pay $100 for the Galaxy S III. :fistpump: Awesome! My advice: Don't call customer service or go by the store if you can avoid. They're improperly trained and have no idea what they're doing. :hipthrust: :fapit:

 

[flapgreen]

I preordered the S3 and for some reason Verizon gave me an extra $150 off. I ended up paying ~$83 for it.

 

[flapgreen]

Thanks Matthias. Hmm, S3 or RazorMaxx?

Everything points to the S3. According to the guys in Europe, it's far superior to anything on the market. Honestly, I wanted to wait for the Razr HD, but it doesn't come out until well after the unlimited data cutoff date. If I'm going to be stuck with the same phone for the next two years, I'm going with the best thing available right now. The camera/video and screen are said to be great. I can't wait to get rid of my old Incredible. It was a great phone when I got it, but now it's slow as hell.

 

[flapgreen]

Flapgreen, I could use your advice. I am trying to learn up on everything android, offcontract upgrades to keep unlimited, using upgrade to buy Gnex(is this the most profitable phone) and resell on ebay/CL and selling off unlimited plans. I would like some advice on my family account. What steps should I take to maximize my opportunity here. Current Verizon plan:5 lines on Family plan 4 smartphones -3 lines(droidx2, blackberry, blackberry*technically suspended vacation service*) with grandfathered unlimited plans. All 3 are eligible for upgrades.-4th line(iphone) is on contract until 7/12(2gb date plan).1 regular line(etf is ridiculous going into 3/13)What is the play here? Also just found out current unlimited data users can keep unlimited data. If you pay full retail price for new phone. http://forums.androidcentral.com/verizon-galaxy-s-iii/177731-have-unlimited-data-verizon-3g-4g-plan-you-can-keep.html

– Customers will not be automatically moved to new shared data plans. If a 3G or 4G smartphone customer is on an unlimited plan now and they do not want to change their plan, they will not have to do so. – When we introduce our new shared data plans, Unlimited Data will no longer be available to customers when purchasing handsets at discounted pricing. – Customers who purchase phones at full retail price and are on an unlimited smartphone data plan will be able to keep that plan. – The same pricing and policies will be applied to all 3G and 4GLTE smartphones.

I'm by no means an expert on Smart Phones and learn most of what I know from sites like Engadget, Droid Life, Gizmodo etc. iPhone's have far and away the best resell value. As far as family plans go, I have no idea. My wife doesn't have a Smart Phone, so I'm the only one on the plan. After unlimited data ends on 6/28, I known they are starting the tiered data, which includes a certain amount of data that everyone on the plan gets to share. Get in before that starts, if you can. Those plans are going to be horrible, but again I'm not that familiar with family plans and how that will play out. Unless you lose a ton of data each month, paying full price for a phone is a terrible idea and nothing more than a terrible marketing ploy by Verizon. You're looking at and additional $400 or more on the purchase of a new Smart Phone.

 

[Slapdash]

Verizon customer service is horrible. I get this text yesterday from Verizon: "Last chance to get $130 off ANY new 4G LTE Smartphone! 2 yr agmt & data pak req'd. $30 upgd fee applies." I was like "HEll YEAH"! So I call Verizon to order the Galaxy S III. The guy proceeds to tell me that the discount doesn't apply to the Galaxy because the offer ends on 6/27 and the phone won't ship until 6/28. WTF! You gotta be kidding me. I'm annoyed as hell after this, so I just say forget it. I decided I would stop by the Verizon just to make sure, though. I went through the same thing with the guy there and he also said it didn't apply. Why did it say "ANY, then?" I said. He looked at me blankly. Whatever dude. I left still annoyed. Then, I get another text today saying the same thing. I thought "what the hell" and decided to check it out online. Amazingly, it allowed me to use the discount and I only had to pay $100 for the Galaxy S III. :fistpump: Awesome! My advice: Don't call customer service or go by the store if you can avoid. They're improperly trained and have no idea what they're doing. :hipthrust: :fapit:

Got this text today too. May make this choice a lot easier.

 

[The Z Machine]

Verizon customer service is horrible. I get this text yesterday from Verizon: "Last chance to get $130 off ANY new 4G LTE Smartphone! 2 yr agmt & data pak req'd. $30 upgd fee applies." I was like "HEll YEAH"! So I call Verizon to order the Galaxy S III. The guy proceeds to tell me that the discount doesn't apply to the Galaxy because the offer ends on 6/27 and the phone won't ship until 6/28. WTF! You gotta be kidding me. I'm annoyed as hell after this, so I just say forget it. I decided I would stop by the Verizon just to make sure, though. I went through the same thing with the guy there and he also said it didn't apply. Why did it say "ANY, then?" I said. He looked at me blankly. Whatever dude. I left still annoyed. Then, I get another text today saying the same thing. I thought "what the hell" and decided to check it out online. Amazingly, it allowed me to use the discount and I only had to pay $100 for the Galaxy S III. :fistpump: Awesome! My advice: Don't call customer service or go by the store if you can avoid. They're improperly trained and have no idea what they're doing. :hipthrust: :fapit:

Got this text today too. May make this choice a lot easier.

How come I didn't get it? I've been up for a new every two for months.

 

[Slapdash]

Verizon customer service is horrible. I get this text yesterday from Verizon: "Last chance to get $130 off ANY new 4G LTE Smartphone! 2 yr agmt & data pak req'd. $30 upgd fee applies." I was like "HEll YEAH"! So I call Verizon to order the Galaxy S III. The guy proceeds to tell me that the discount doesn't apply to the Galaxy because the offer ends on 6/27 and the phone won't ship until 6/28. WTF! You gotta be kidding me. I'm annoyed as hell after this, so I just say forget it. I decided I would stop by the Verizon just to make sure, though. I went through the same thing with the guy there and he also said it didn't apply. Why did it say "ANY, then?" I said. He looked at me blankly. Whatever dude. I left still annoyed. Then, I get another text today saying the same thing. I thought "what the hell" and decided to check it out online. Amazingly, it allowed me to use the discount and I only had to pay $100 for the Galaxy S III. :fistpump: Awesome! My advice: Don't call customer service or go by the store if you can avoid. They're improperly trained and have no idea what they're doing. :hipthrust: :fapit:

Got this text today too. May make this choice a lot easier.

Damn, the website still says 30.

 

[Maurile Tremblay]

I'm grandfathered in with unlimited data for now. If I get the Razr Maxx before June 28, it appears that I can stay on the same plan. But if somebody else in my household upgrades several months later, and therefore has to switch to the shared data plan in order to get a discounted phone, does that mean everybody on the plan (including me) loses unlimited data?

 

[belljr]

I'm grandfathered in with unlimited data for now. If I get the Razr Maxx before June 28, it appears that I can stay on the same plan. But if somebody else in my household upgrades several months later, and therefore has to switch to the shared data plan in order to get a discounted phone, does that mean everybody on the plan (including me) loses unlimited data?

Yep - I think so. But I'm not 100% sure, it might be only if the primary has to change.eta: Now I'm not so sure

 

[Guest]

I'm grandfathered in with unlimited data for now. If I get the Razr Maxx before June 28, it appears that I can stay on the same plan. But if somebody else in my household upgrades several months later, and therefore has to switch to the shared data plan in order to get a discounted phone, does that mean everybody on the plan (including me) loses unlimited data?

By my read of it, no.There's two things going on.1: All new plans with Verizon after this month will have to go to the new shared data plan2: Existing customers can continue with their current minutes/text plan if they want*3: Grandfathered unlimited data customers can continue with their unlimited data after this month provided they forego the subsidized phones every 2 years*So your household can continue on their current plan which for my wife gives her 2gigs of data/month. If your household ever decides to switch to the new plan, then you will have to switch as well. But if you decide you want a discounted phone, you would transition to the current standard. I.e., it seems like you can go from two levels of being grandfathered down to one.* Until Verizon changes their mind again.

 

[flapgreen]

Verizon customer service is horrible. I get this text yesterday from Verizon: "Last chance to get $130 off ANY new 4G LTE Smartphone! 2 yr agmt & data pak req'd. $30 upgd fee applies." I was like "HEll YEAH"! So I call Verizon to order the Galaxy S III. The guy proceeds to tell me that the discount doesn't apply to the Galaxy because the offer ends on 6/27 and the phone won't ship until 6/28. WTF! You gotta be kidding me. I'm annoyed as hell after this, so I just say forget it. I decided I would stop by the Verizon just to make sure, though. I went through the same thing with the guy there and he also said it didn't apply. Why did it say "ANY, then?" I said. He looked at me blankly. Whatever dude. I left still annoyed. Then, I get another text today saying the same thing. I thought "what the hell" and decided to check it out online. Amazingly, it allowed me to use the discount and I only had to pay $100 for the Galaxy S III. :fistpump: Awesome! My advice: Don't call customer service or go by the store if you can avoid. They're improperly trained and have no idea what they're doing. :hipthrust: :fapit:

Got this text today too. May make this choice a lot easier.

Damn, the website still says 30.

odd

 

[dal_boys_phan]

Verizon FamilyShare plan here - two phones, one upgraded to the Samsung Galaxy Nexus on Jan 1 this year and one OG Droid that is eligible for upgrade. Both have grandfathered unlimited data, with the 4G Galaxy having the hotspot enabled (long commute + iPad3) to give it unlimited there as well. Wife's phone is the Droid and has been waiting to pickup an iPhone - this new plan sucks big time. Going to have to pickup the 4S, because I doubt that I want pony up the extra $500 to get her into a new one and keep the data. Worst part about it is that she doesn't even use the data plan enough to warrant one, so the new "data share" would be great, but not at the expense of my unlimited.

 

[LittleLarry]

Just ordered the Galaxy S3. Grandfathered in at unlimited data.

I tried to get the guy to give me the $130 off like others have received. He said he could give me that, but I would have to give up the unlimited data. Not going to do that.

I think I'm most excited about S-Voice. From what I've read, they are making constant improvements to the software for this to make it even better. I like the idea of yelling at my phone and telling it to schedule a meeting for tomorrow at 2pm.

 

[ditka...mike ditka]

So is the consensus that the Galaxy S3 will be a better phone that the RAZR Maxx which is better than the Iphone? I want to place an order before the 28th.

 

[Maurile Tremblay]

So is the consensus that the Galaxy S3 will be a better phone that the RAZR Maxx which is better than the Iphone? I want to place an order before the 28th.

My understanding is that the GS3 will have a better screen, faster processor, more memory, and much better camera than the Razr Maxx, while the Razr Maxx has better battery life, clearer phone reception, and (in most people's opinion) less annoying "software enhancements" (i.e., the look and feel of changes to the operating system made by the manufacturer).I don't know how they compare to various versions of the iPhone.

 

[Slapdash]

So is the consensus that the Galaxy S3 will be a better phone that the RAZR Maxx which is better than the Iphone? I want to place an order before the 28th.

My understanding is that the GS3 will have a better screen, faster processor, more memory, and much better camera than the Razr Maxx, while the Razr Maxx has better battery life, clearer phone reception, and (in most people's opinion) less annoying "software enhancements" (i.e., the look and feel of changes to the operating system made by the manufacturer).I don't know how they compare to various versions of the iPhone.

The OS version seems to be a difference too. Not sure how big of an upgrade that really is or if Maxx is expected to get ICS later on.

 

[belljr]

So is the consensus that the Galaxy S3 will be a better phone that the RAZR Maxx which is better than the Iphone? I want to place an order before the 28th.

My understanding is that the GS3 will have a better screen, faster processor, more memory, and much better camera than the Razr Maxx, while the Razr Maxx has better battery life, clearer phone reception, and (in most people's opinion) less annoying "software enhancements" (i.e., the look and feel of changes to the operating system made by the manufacturer).I don't know how they compare to various versions of the iPhone.

The OS version seems to be a difference too. Not sure how big of an upgrade that really is or if Maxx is expected to get ICS later on.

It was supposed to be Q2 for Razr but that doesn't appear to be happening

 

[ditka...mike ditka]

Thanks guys. Ill end up doing a little more research and post if I find anything differnt than what you posted. But since I rarely use the phone to actually talk clearer reception doesnt do as much for me as what the galaxy has.

 

[Maurile Tremblay]

So is the consensus that the Galaxy S3 will be a better phone that the RAZR Maxx which is better than the Iphone? I want to place an order before the 28th.

My understanding is that the GS3 will have a better screen, faster processor, more memory, and much better camera than the Razr Maxx, while the Razr Maxx has better battery life, clearer phone reception, and (in most people's opinion) less annoying "software enhancements" (i.e., the look and feel of changes to the operating system made by the manufacturer).I don't know how they compare to various versions of the iPhone.

The OS version seems to be a difference too. Not sure how big of an upgrade that really is or if Maxx is expected to get ICS later on.

I think ICS is supposed to be available on the Maxx by the time that SG3 is supposed to ship, or thereabouts.

 

[Skipdog77]

So is the consensus that the Galaxy S3 will be a better phone that the RAZR Maxx which is better than the Iphone? I want to place an order before the 28th.

My understanding is that the GS3 will have a better screen, faster processor, more memory, and much better camera than the Razr Maxx, while the Razr Maxx has better battery life, clearer phone reception, and (in most people's opinion) less annoying "software enhancements" (i.e., the look and feel of changes to the operating system made by the manufacturer).I don't know how they compare to various versions of the iPhone.

The OS version seems to be a difference too. Not sure how big of an upgrade that really is or if Maxx is expected to get ICS later on.

I think ICS is supposed to be available on the Maxx by the time that SG3 is supposed to ship, or thereabouts.

You are correct, ICS for the Maxx is supposed to be imminent. I was going back and forth between the Maxx and the S3 for about a week, and finally ultimately decided on the S3. I like that fact that the phone was designed to run on ICS, and after a nightmare experience on my Incredible when the OS got updated to Gingerbread back a year or so ago, the thought of going through that again on the Maxx pushed me towards the S3. Apparently some of the functions in ICS won't be available or fully realized on the Maxx, even when ICS is eventually pushed to it. Would have loved to have the extra battery life on the Maxx, but I think the S3 will be the phone I will be happier with a year or two down the road.

 

[flapgreen]

So is the consensus that the Galaxy S3 will be a better phone that the RAZR Maxx which is better than the Iphone? I want to place an order before the 28th.

My understanding is that the GS3 will have a better screen, faster processor, more memory, and much better camera than the Razr Maxx, while the Razr Maxx has better battery life, clearer phone reception, and (in most people's opinion) less annoying "software enhancements" (i.e., the look and feel of changes to the operating system made by the manufacturer).I don't know how they compare to various versions of the iPhone.

The OS version seems to be a difference too. Not sure how big of an upgrade that really is or if Maxx is expected to get ICS later on.

I think ICS is supposed to be available on the Maxx by the time that SG3 is supposed to ship, or thereabouts.

You are correct, ICS for the Maxx is supposed to be imminent. I was going back and forth between the Maxx and the S3 for about a week, and finally ultimately decided on the S3. I like that fact that the phone was designed to run on ICS, and after a nightmare experience on my Incredible when the OS got updated to Gingerbread back a year or so ago, the thought of going through that again on the Maxx pushed me towards the S3. Apparently some of the functions in ICS won't be available or fully realized on the Maxx, even when ICS is eventually pushed to it. Would have loved to have the extra battery life on the Maxx, but I think the S3 will be the phone I will be happier with a year or two down the road.

I wondered about this. My Incredible has been a pos for a long time. That must have been the problem. It used to be great. I can barely watch a video and internet is incredibly slow. Good to know.

 

[Guest]

Just ordered the S3. 90% sure I'm going to keep it although I did find people who would buy it for $500 if I wanted to pocket the money and wait on the iPhone5.

 

[Sofa King Money]

Just ordered the S3. 90% sure I'm going to keep it although I did find people who would buy it for $500 if I wanted to pocket the money and wait on the iPhone5.

Ditto here. What's the market for an original Droid X in very good condition? What would you do with a perfectly good 3G smartphone - sell it or keep as a backup? My fear is my teenager will want to take it over if I keep it but that would be another $30/month and it'd have to be on a tiered plan after the 28th as I understand it. Verizon bill would be approaching $325 a month

 

[Guest]

Just ordered the S3. 90% sure I'm going to keep it although I did find people who would buy it for $500 if I wanted to pocket the money and wait on the iPhone5.

Ditto here. What's the market for an original Droid X in very good condition? What would you do with a perfectly good 3G smartphone - sell it or keep as a backup? My fear is my teenager will want to take it over if I keep it but that would be another $30/month and it'd have to be on a tiered plan after the 28th as I understand it. Verizon bill would be approaching $325 a month

Not sure but guessing $70-$80?Argument for keeping it: phones get dropped/crushed/stolen. So if something happens to your new phone you have a back-up.Argument for selling it: secondary markets always exist so if you need a back-up you can always get one if you need it. If you can get close to $100, I'd probably sell it. $50 or less I'd probably just hold onto it.

 

[Slapdash]

Just ordered the S3. 90% sure I'm going to keep it although I did find people who would buy it for $500 if I wanted to pocket the money and wait on the iPhone5.

I just ordered it too for 70 bucks. Making a 400 profit on it would be sweet.

 

[snellman]

So the new plans are out. I was looking at it because my wife would like to put her dad on our plan for a line, but under our old plan we are full. I like the idea of unlimited voice and text, but do not like the idea of limiting my data. I currently have 5 phones on my plan. for me to change to the new plan with my existing lines without adding a new line would be $40 more per month with 4 G of data.

Luckily the wife and I just upgraded to the Razr so we won't have to worry for a while.

 

[Maurile Tremblay]

GS3 is apparently supposed to be in stores July 12.

I was previously leaning toward the Razr Maxx, but now I might wait until July 12 so I can compare the two. Or I might not make it to July 12. My Droid X may be on its last legs.

 

[flapgreen]

My Incredible is almost dead as well.

 

[belljr]

Just received the ICS update for my Razr Maxx. So far it makes the webpages tiny. I accidentally closed all the new features so now I have to read the web.... ugh

 

[Maurile Tremblay]

GS3 is apparently supposed to be in stores July 12.

I was previously leaning toward the Razr Maxx, but now I might wait until July 12 so I can compare the two. Or I might not make it to July 12. My Droid X may be on its last legs.

I haven't compared them personally yet, but the SG3 is getting pretty great reviews.

 

[Slapdash]

Let my Wi-Fi go: FCC rules Verizon can't charge for Wi-Fi tetheringSummary: In what may prove a landmark ruling, the FCC has stated that Verizon can no longer charge users for using their 4G devices as Wi-Fi hotspots.By Steven J. Vaughan-Nichols for Networking | July 31, 2012 -- 20:55 GMT (13:55 PDT) The FCC has forced Verizon to stop charging an extra free for Wi-Fi tethering. In a US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) ruling, Verizon was ordered to stop charging users an additional fee for using their 4G smartphones and tablets as Wi-Fi hotspots, aka tethering. P. Michele Ellison, FCC, Enforcement Bureau Chief, said in a statement, “This case was the first of its kind in enforcing the pro-consumer open access obligations of the C Block [the spectrum band reserved for 4G] rules. It underscores the agency’s commitment to guarantee consumers the benefits of an open wireless broadband platform by providing greater consumer choice and fostering innovation."As FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski said in the same document, "Today’s action demonstrates that compliance with FCC obligations is not optional. The open device and application obligations were core conditions when Verizon purchased the C-block spectrum. The massive innovation and investment fueled by the Internet have been driven by consumer choice in both devices and applications. The steps taken today will not only protect consumer choice, but defend certainty for innovators to continue to deliver new services and apps without fear of being blocked."In short, “Verizon Wireless offers customers its 4G LTE service on C Block spectrum. Verizon Wireless bid at auction to acquire that spectrum, understanding that it was accompanied by open device and application obligations. Specifically, licensees offering service on C Block spectrum 'shall not deny, limit, or restrict the ability of their customers to use the devices and applications of their choice on the licensee’s C Block network, subject to narrow exceptions.'”In addition, “Under the terms of today’s settlement, Verizon Wireless will make a voluntary payment to the Treasury in the amount of $1.25 million, and has committed to notifying the application store operator that it no longer objects to the availability of the tethering applications to C-Block network customers” and that Verizon “revised its service offerings such that consumers on usage-based pricing plans may tether, using any application, without paying an additional fee.”The bottom line is that you will once more be able to freely share your Verizon 4G broadband connection over Wi-Fi with your other devices and your friends, co-workers, and family's devices. Verizon started closing the doors to tethering in the spring of 2011. Verizon wasn't the only carrier to tax users for using their bandwidth as they saw fit. AT&T had started charging tethering users earlier in 2011.In the case of Verizon, the company started charging users a $20 per month tethering charge even if they had an “unlimited” plan. Those days are done. You will now be able to freely share your bandwidth as you see fit.I never understood Verizon's restrictive tethering policy. The carriers, starting with Verizon, were getting rid of unlimited data plans as fast as possible anyway. "Unlimited data is not something we think is sustainable in the long term," Tami Erwin, chief marketing officer for Verizon, said in a CNET interview. Thus, we were always going to end up paying out the nose for any data usage over 2GBs a month anyway. If you wanted to use that bandwidth to say your Verizon smartphone and your Wi-Fi only Apple iPad tablet and Lenovo ThinkPad laptop why should Verizon object? The $20 fee was always about trying to squeeze the customer for the maximum amount of income with the minimum amount of service. Business being busines you will still almost certainly end up paying more for your 4G broadband as Verizon raises data plan prices in the future., For now, though you can choose to use your data plan the way you want to use it without any additional fees. And, in the short run, you'll be saving $20 a month.

 

[Dexter]

Let my Wi-Fi go: FCC rules Verizon can't charge for Wi-Fi tetheringSummary: In what may prove a landmark ruling, the FCC has stated that Verizon can no longer charge users for using their 4G devices as Wi-Fi hotspots.By Steven J. Vaughan-Nichols for Networking | July 31, 2012 -- 20:55 GMT (13:55 PDT) The FCC has forced Verizon to stop charging an extra free for Wi-Fi tethering. In a US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) ruling, Verizon was ordered to stop charging users an additional fee for using their 4G smartphones and tablets as Wi-Fi hotspots, aka tethering. P. Michele Ellison, FCC, Enforcement Bureau Chief, said in a statement, “This case was the first of its kind in enforcing the pro-consumer open access obligations of the C Block [the spectrum band reserved for 4G] rules. It underscores the agency’s commitment to guarantee consumers the benefits of an open wireless broadband platform by providing greater consumer choice and fostering innovation."As FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski said in the same document, "Today’s action demonstrates that compliance with FCC obligations is not optional. The open device and application obligations were core conditions when Verizon purchased the C-block spectrum. The massive innovation and investment fueled by the Internet have been driven by consumer choice in both devices and applications. The steps taken today will not only protect consumer choice, but defend certainty for innovators to continue to deliver new services and apps without fear of being blocked."In short, “Verizon Wireless offers customers its 4G LTE service on C Block spectrum. Verizon Wireless bid at auction to acquire that spectrum, understanding that it was accompanied by open device and application obligations. Specifically, licensees offering service on C Block spectrum 'shall not deny, limit, or restrict the ability of their customers to use the devices and applications of their choice on the licensee’s C Block network, subject to narrow exceptions.'”In addition, “Under the terms of today’s settlement, Verizon Wireless will make a voluntary payment to the Treasury in the amount of $1.25 million, and has committed to notifying the application store operator that it no longer objects to the availability of the tethering applications to C-Block network customers” and that Verizon “revised its service offerings such that consumers on usage-based pricing plans may tether, using any application, without paying an additional fee.”The bottom line is that you will once more be able to freely share your Verizon 4G broadband connection over Wi-Fi with your other devices and your friends, co-workers, and family's devices. Verizon started closing the doors to tethering in the spring of 2011. Verizon wasn't the only carrier to tax users for using their bandwidth as they saw fit. AT&T had started charging tethering users earlier in 2011.In the case of Verizon, the company started charging users a $20 per month tethering charge even if they had an “unlimited” plan. Those days are done. You will now be able to freely share your bandwidth as you see fit.I never understood Verizon's restrictive tethering policy. The carriers, starting with Verizon, were getting rid of unlimited data plans as fast as possible anyway. "Unlimited data is not something we think is sustainable in the long term," Tami Erwin, chief marketing officer for Verizon, said in a CNET interview. Thus, we were always going to end up paying out the nose for any data usage over 2GBs a month anyway. If you wanted to use that bandwidth to say your Verizon smartphone and your Wi-Fi only Apple iPad tablet and Lenovo ThinkPad laptop why should Verizon object? The $20 fee was always about trying to squeeze the customer for the maximum amount of income with the minimum amount of service. Business being busines you will still almost certainly end up paying more for your 4G broadband as Verizon raises data plan prices in the future., For now, though you can choose to use your data plan the way you want to use it without any additional fees. And, in the short run, you'll be saving $20 a month.

 

[belljr]

Let my Wi-Fi go: FCC rules Verizon can't charge for Wi-Fi tetheringSummary: In what may prove a landmark ruling, the FCC has stated that Verizon can no longer charge users for using their 4G devices as Wi-Fi hotspots.By Steven J. Vaughan-Nichols for Networking | July 31, 2012 -- 20:55 GMT (13:55 PDT) The FCC has forced Verizon to stop charging an extra free for Wi-Fi tethering. In a US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) ruling, Verizon was ordered to stop charging users an additional fee for using their 4G smartphones and tablets as Wi-Fi hotspots, aka tethering. P. Michele Ellison, FCC, Enforcement Bureau Chief, said in a statement, “This case was the first of its kind in enforcing the pro-consumer open access obligations of the C Block [the spectrum band reserved for 4G] rules. It underscores the agency’s commitment to guarantee consumers the benefits of an open wireless broadband platform by providing greater consumer choice and fostering innovation."As FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski said in the same document, "Today’s action demonstrates that compliance with FCC obligations is not optional. The open device and application obligations were core conditions when Verizon purchased the C-block spectrum. The massive innovation and investment fueled by the Internet have been driven by consumer choice in both devices and applications. The steps taken today will not only protect consumer choice, but defend certainty for innovators to continue to deliver new services and apps without fear of being blocked."In short, “Verizon Wireless offers customers its 4G LTE service on C Block spectrum. Verizon Wireless bid at auction to acquire that spectrum, understanding that it was accompanied by open device and application obligations. Specifically, licensees offering service on C Block spectrum 'shall not deny, limit, or restrict the ability of their customers to use the devices and applications of their choice on the licensee’s C Block network, subject to narrow exceptions.'”In addition, “Under the terms of today’s settlement, Verizon Wireless will make a voluntary payment to the Treasury in the amount of $1.25 million, and has committed to notifying the application store operator that it no longer objects to the availability of the tethering applications to C-Block network customers” and that Verizon “revised its service offerings such that consumers on usage-based pricing plans may tether, using any application, without paying an additional fee.”The bottom line is that you will once more be able to freely share your Verizon 4G broadband connection over Wi-Fi with your other devices and your friends, co-workers, and family's devices. Verizon started closing the doors to tethering in the spring of 2011. Verizon wasn't the only carrier to tax users for using their bandwidth as they saw fit. AT&T had started charging tethering users earlier in 2011.In the case of Verizon, the company started charging users a $20 per month tethering charge even if they had an “unlimited” plan. Those days are done. You will now be able to freely share your bandwidth as you see fit.I never understood Verizon's restrictive tethering policy. The carriers, starting with Verizon, were getting rid of unlimited data plans as fast as possible anyway. "Unlimited data is not something we think is sustainable in the long term," Tami Erwin, chief marketing officer for Verizon, said in a CNET interview. Thus, we were always going to end up paying out the nose for any data usage over 2GBs a month anyway. If you wanted to use that bandwidth to say your Verizon smartphone and your Wi-Fi only Apple iPad tablet and Lenovo ThinkPad laptop why should Verizon object? The $20 fee was always about trying to squeeze the customer for the maximum amount of income with the minimum amount of service. Business being busines you will still almost certainly end up paying more for your 4G broadband as Verizon raises data plan prices in the future., For now, though you can choose to use your data plan the way you want to use it without any additional fees. And, in the short run, you'll be saving $20 a month.

So I can keep my unlimited and now tether... awesome!!!Still getting denied message... Impatient?

 

[SacramentoBob]

Let my Wi-Fi go: FCC rules Verizon can't charge for Wi-Fi tetheringSummary: In what may prove a landmark ruling, the FCC has stated that Verizon can no longer charge users for using their 4G devices as Wi-Fi hotspots.By Steven J. Vaughan-Nichols for Networking | July 31, 2012 -- 20:55 GMT (13:55 PDT) The FCC has forced Verizon to stop charging an extra free for Wi-Fi tethering. In a US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) ruling, Verizon was ordered to stop charging users an additional fee for using their 4G smartphones and tablets as Wi-Fi hotspots, aka tethering. P. Michele Ellison, FCC, Enforcement Bureau Chief, said in a statement, “This case was the first of its kind in enforcing the pro-consumer open access obligations of the C Block [the spectrum band reserved for 4G] rules. It underscores the agency’s commitment to guarantee consumers the benefits of an open wireless broadband platform by providing greater consumer choice and fostering innovation."As FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski said in the same document, "Today’s action demonstrates that compliance with FCC obligations is not optional. The open device and application obligations were core conditions when Verizon purchased the C-block spectrum. The massive innovation and investment fueled by the Internet have been driven by consumer choice in both devices and applications. The steps taken today will not only protect consumer choice, but defend certainty for innovators to continue to deliver new services and apps without fear of being blocked."In short, “Verizon Wireless offers customers its 4G LTE service on C Block spectrum. Verizon Wireless bid at auction to acquire that spectrum, understanding that it was accompanied by open device and application obligations. Specifically, licensees offering service on C Block spectrum 'shall not deny, limit, or restrict the ability of their customers to use the devices and applications of their choice on the licensee’s C Block network, subject to narrow exceptions.'”In addition, “Under the terms of today’s settlement, Verizon Wireless will make a voluntary payment to the Treasury in the amount of $1.25 million, and has committed to notifying the application store operator that it no longer objects to the availability of the tethering applications to C-Block network customers” and that Verizon “revised its service offerings such that consumers on usage-based pricing plans may tether, using any application, without paying an additional fee.”The bottom line is that you will once more be able to freely share your Verizon 4G broadband connection over Wi-Fi with your other devices and your friends, co-workers, and family's devices. Verizon started closing the doors to tethering in the spring of 2011. Verizon wasn't the only carrier to tax users for using their bandwidth as they saw fit. AT&T had started charging tethering users earlier in 2011.In the case of Verizon, the company started charging users a $20 per month tethering charge even if they had an “unlimited” plan. Those days are done. You will now be able to freely share your bandwidth as you see fit.I never understood Verizon's restrictive tethering policy. The carriers, starting with Verizon, were getting rid of unlimited data plans as fast as possible anyway. "Unlimited data is not something we think is sustainable in the long term," Tami Erwin, chief marketing officer for Verizon, said in a CNET interview. Thus, we were always going to end up paying out the nose for any data usage over 2GBs a month anyway. If you wanted to use that bandwidth to say your Verizon smartphone and your Wi-Fi only Apple iPad tablet and Lenovo ThinkPad laptop why should Verizon object? The $20 fee was always about trying to squeeze the customer for the maximum amount of income with the minimum amount of service. Business being busines you will still almost certainly end up paying more for your 4G broadband as Verizon raises data plan prices in the future., For now, though you can choose to use your data plan the way you want to use it without any additional fees. And, in the short run, you'll be saving $20 a month.

So I can keep my unlimited and now tether... awesome!!!Still getting denied message... Impatient?

Was gonna start a thread on this, but I figured it might've been covered here. Good news. They are already charging for data usage, charging for the ability to tether is just ridiculous.

 

[Slapdash]

Let my Wi-Fi go: FCC rules Verizon can't charge for Wi-Fi tetheringSummary: In what may prove a landmark ruling, the FCC has stated that Verizon can no longer charge users for using their 4G devices as Wi-Fi hotspots.By Steven J. Vaughan-Nichols for Networking | July 31, 2012 -- 20:55 GMT (13:55 PDT) The FCC has forced Verizon to stop charging an extra free for Wi-Fi tethering. In a US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) ruling, Verizon was ordered to stop charging users an additional fee for using their 4G smartphones and tablets as Wi-Fi hotspots, aka tethering. P. Michele Ellison, FCC, Enforcement Bureau Chief, said in a statement, “This case was the first of its kind in enforcing the pro-consumer open access obligations of the C Block [the spectrum band reserved for 4G] rules. It underscores the agency’s commitment to guarantee consumers the benefits of an open wireless broadband platform by providing greater consumer choice and fostering innovation."As FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski said in the same document, "Today’s action demonstrates that compliance with FCC obligations is not optional. The open device and application obligations were core conditions when Verizon purchased the C-block spectrum. The massive innovation and investment fueled by the Internet have been driven by consumer choice in both devices and applications. The steps taken today will not only protect consumer choice, but defend certainty for innovators to continue to deliver new services and apps without fear of being blocked."In short, “Verizon Wireless offers customers its 4G LTE service on C Block spectrum. Verizon Wireless bid at auction to acquire that spectrum, understanding that it was accompanied by open device and application obligations. Specifically, licensees offering service on C Block spectrum 'shall not deny, limit, or restrict the ability of their customers to use the devices and applications of their choice on the licensee’s C Block network, subject to narrow exceptions.'”In addition, “Under the terms of today’s settlement, Verizon Wireless will make a voluntary payment to the Treasury in the amount of $1.25 million, and has committed to notifying the application store operator that it no longer objects to the availability of the tethering applications to C-Block network customers” and that Verizon “revised its service offerings such that consumers on usage-based pricing plans may tether, using any application, without paying an additional fee.”The bottom line is that you will once more be able to freely share your Verizon 4G broadband connection over Wi-Fi with your other devices and your friends, co-workers, and family's devices. Verizon started closing the doors to tethering in the spring of 2011. Verizon wasn't the only carrier to tax users for using their bandwidth as they saw fit. AT&T had started charging tethering users earlier in 2011.In the case of Verizon, the company started charging users a $20 per month tethering charge even if they had an “unlimited” plan. Those days are done. You will now be able to freely share your bandwidth as you see fit.I never understood Verizon's restrictive tethering policy. The carriers, starting with Verizon, were getting rid of unlimited data plans as fast as possible anyway. "Unlimited data is not something we think is sustainable in the long term," Tami Erwin, chief marketing officer for Verizon, said in a CNET interview. Thus, we were always going to end up paying out the nose for any data usage over 2GBs a month anyway. If you wanted to use that bandwidth to say your Verizon smartphone and your Wi-Fi only Apple iPad tablet and Lenovo ThinkPad laptop why should Verizon object? The $20 fee was always about trying to squeeze the customer for the maximum amount of income with the minimum amount of service. Business being busines you will still almost certainly end up paying more for your 4G broadband as Verizon raises data plan prices in the future., For now, though you can choose to use your data plan the way you want to use it without any additional fees. And, in the short run, you'll be saving $20 a month.

So I can keep my unlimited and now tether... awesome!!!Still getting denied message... Impatient?

I've read something saying they can still charge on unlimited plans.

 

[belljr]

Let my Wi-Fi go: FCC rules Verizon can't charge for Wi-Fi tetheringSummary: In what may prove a landmark ruling, the FCC has stated that Verizon can no longer charge users for using their 4G devices as Wi-Fi hotspots.By Steven J. Vaughan-Nichols for Networking | July 31, 2012 -- 20:55 GMT (13:55 PDT) The FCC has forced Verizon to stop charging an extra free for Wi-Fi tethering. In a US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) ruling, Verizon was ordered to stop charging users an additional fee for using their 4G smartphones and tablets as Wi-Fi hotspots, aka tethering. P. Michele Ellison, FCC, Enforcement Bureau Chief, said in a statement, “This case was the first of its kind in enforcing the pro-consumer open access obligations of the C Block [the spectrum band reserved for 4G] rules. It underscores the agency’s commitment to guarantee consumers the benefits of an open wireless broadband platform by providing greater consumer choice and fostering innovation."As FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski said in the same document, "Today’s action demonstrates that compliance with FCC obligations is not optional. The open device and application obligations were core conditions when Verizon purchased the C-block spectrum. The massive innovation and investment fueled by the Internet have been driven by consumer choice in both devices and applications. The steps taken today will not only protect consumer choice, but defend certainty for innovators to continue to deliver new services and apps without fear of being blocked."In short, “Verizon Wireless offers customers its 4G LTE service on C Block spectrum. Verizon Wireless bid at auction to acquire that spectrum, understanding that it was accompanied by open device and application obligations. Specifically, licensees offering service on C Block spectrum 'shall not deny, limit, or restrict the ability of their customers to use the devices and applications of their choice on the licensee’s C Block network, subject to narrow exceptions.'”In addition, “Under the terms of today’s settlement, Verizon Wireless will make a voluntary payment to the Treasury in the amount of $1.25 million, and has committed to notifying the application store operator that it no longer objects to the availability of the tethering applications to C-Block network customers” and that Verizon “revised its service offerings such that consumers on usage-based pricing plans may tether, using any application, without paying an additional fee.”The bottom line is that you will once more be able to freely share your Verizon 4G broadband connection over Wi-Fi with your other devices and your friends, co-workers, and family's devices. Verizon started closing the doors to tethering in the spring of 2011. Verizon wasn't the only carrier to tax users for using their bandwidth as they saw fit. AT&T had started charging tethering users earlier in 2011.In the case of Verizon, the company started charging users a $20 per month tethering charge even if they had an “unlimited” plan. Those days are done. You will now be able to freely share your bandwidth as you see fit.I never understood Verizon's restrictive tethering policy. The carriers, starting with Verizon, were getting rid of unlimited data plans as fast as possible anyway. "Unlimited data is not something we think is sustainable in the long term," Tami Erwin, chief marketing officer for Verizon, said in a CNET interview. Thus, we were always going to end up paying out the nose for any data usage over 2GBs a month anyway. If you wanted to use that bandwidth to say your Verizon smartphone and your Wi-Fi only Apple iPad tablet and Lenovo ThinkPad laptop why should Verizon object? The $20 fee was always about trying to squeeze the customer for the maximum amount of income with the minimum amount of service. Business being busines you will still almost certainly end up paying more for your 4G broadband as Verizon raises data plan prices in the future., For now, though you can choose to use your data plan the way you want to use it without any additional fees. And, in the short run, you'll be saving $20 a month.

So I can keep my unlimited and now tether... awesome!!!Still getting denied message... Impatient?

I've read something saying they can still charge on unlimited plans.

Then I'm confused. Part of their new shared plan pricing was that mobile hotspot was included anyway. Is this just some legalese for what they already were offering

revised its service offerings such that consumers on usage-basedpricing plans may tether, using any application, without paying an additional fee.

Crap.

 

[Mr. Chumley]

Any one here who can reccomend an arm band for the razr hd? Local verizon store had one but wanted $60 for it beacuse it came with BT headphones. I need something that will fit the phone with the verizon case still on.

 

[lumpy19]

So I'm ready to upgrade my phone but I don't want to lose my unlimited data plan. If I buy a phone for full price I'll get to keep my unlimited correct? The people at the local store don't seem to have any clue. Thinking of just buying a GS3 off of ebay and activating it.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Anyone know anything about the Samsung Stratosphere II?

 

[Andy Dufresne]

If anyone's up for an upgrade, Wirefly has the Droid HTC DNA for $40 today.

Use Techbargains Exclusive $10 off Coupon Code: "TB10"

Pretty highly reviewed phone.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

So I got a Droid DNA because it was $50 on upgrade at Verizon.

I can't imagine needing anything more in a phone. The screen is gorgeous and the phone runs super fast.

What am I missing by not spending an extra $150 and getting an S4? The ability to use the Force on my phone?

 

[Quez]

So I got a Droid DNA because it was $50 on upgrade at Verizon.

I can't imagine needing anything more in a phone. The screen is gorgeous and the phone runs super fast.

What am I missing by not spending an extra $150 and getting an S4? The ability to use the Force on my phone?

How is battery life? I heard that was the only knock on the DNA. I've been on the Note2 since Dec. and love it. Had an HTC EVO before that and it was also a great device at the time, minus the poor battery life. I was most impressed with my old HTC when it fell out of my pocket traveling at 25mph in a golf cart in Key West. battery came out, but phone still worked.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

It's one of the things that gave me pause when I was deciding but..

I took it off the power fully charged yesterday when I left for work, charged it for about 30 minutes last night as I was transferring some stuff to it from my PC, didn't plug it in overnight and haven't yet today and...it's just under half charged right now.

Granted, I didn't use it much for talking or surfing so it's not the best gauge. But I don't think it'll be a problem.

 

[flapgreen]

Has anyone been able to bargain with these fools? I tried agreeing to a 2yr contract if I could get a phone for cheaper than they listed but they act like it's impossible.

 

[(HULK)]

Has anyone been able to bargain with these fools? I tried agreeing to a 2yr contract if I could get a phone for cheaper than they listed but they act like it's impossible.

You should try negotating a lower priced contract. Much more likely to happen than a cheaper phone. But really, you should tell them to piss off and go somewhere else. Their coverage is great, but every single other thing about them sucks donkey nuts.

 

[flapgreen]

Anyone bought a Verizon phone through best buy? The htc one is $50 cheaper on best buy

 

[flapgreen]

Has anyone been able to bargain with these fools? I tried agreeing to a 2yr contract if I could get a phone for cheaper than they listed but they act like it's impossible.

You should try negotating a lower priced contract. Much more likely to happen than a cheaper phone. But really, you should tell them to piss off and go somewhere else. Their coverage is great, but every single other thing about them sucks donkey nuts.

Was definitely going this route but the $60 2gb plan is tempting.

 

[[icon]]

Has anyone been able to bargain with these fools? I tried agreeing to a 2yr contract if I could get a phone for cheaper than they listed but they act like it's impossible.

You should try negotating a lower priced contract. Much more likely to happen than a cheaper phone. But really, you should tell them to piss off and go somewhere else. Their coverage is great, but every single other thing about them sucks donkey nuts.

Was definitely going this route but the $60 2gb plan is tempting.

Yep.

I've been anti-major-carrier for a while now due to $100-120 cell bills. Absurd to spend that much on a mobile phone line. Now that they're within $10-15 or so of any other decent option, the lure of that seamless 4G Coverage is tough to overlook.

FYI:

Check out the app OPEN SIGNAL. Has a wide range of features, not the least of which is telling you the average up/down/ping speeds of carriers in the immediate vicinity of you.

• Map/database showing average speeds of all carriers in your location

• Run bandwidth tests to see your up/down/ping speed

• View map nearby wifi networks to jump on

• "Compass" directing you on which direction to go to improve your signal.

• etc.

As I sit at my desk, these are the average speeds here:

Verizon: 10.35 Mbs Down / 5.90 Mbs Up

ATT : 9.64Mbs Down / 6.04Mbs Up

Tmobile: 6.20 Mbs Down / 2.67 Mbs Up

Sprint : 2.83 Mbs Down / 2.30 Mbs Up

Boost : 0.41 Mbs Down / 0.21 Mbs Up

Cspire : 0.28 Mbs Down / 0.35 Mbs Up (my test)

So I'm looking at a 40x faster download speed by moving to Verizon VZW's lead over ATT is even bigger at my house.

Anyone looking to potentially switch carriers should definitely have this app to check out speeds in areas they frequent.