Verizon introducing tiered data plans on October 28?
Verizon is going to following in AT&T’s footsteps and introducing tiered data plans, according to sources at Engadget. According to this tipster, Verizon will be rolling out the new data plans on October 28. The best part? Verizon will not be getting rid of the unlimited data plan, just adding additional data plans for low-data using customers. Smartphone users will be able to choose between a $15 data plan that includes 150MB with $.10 per MB overage fees or a $29.99 unlimited data plan. Feature phones will be able to choose any of the smartphone data packages or a $1.99 pay-as-you-go data package. With the addition of the $1.99 pay-as-you-go feature, Verizon will be getting rid of the $9.99 package that included 25MB. Hit the jump for the full internal Verizon Q&A.
Q: Why has Verizon Wireless decided to introduce these new 3G data plans?
A: Customers want to get the most from their high-powered devices. The new plans give these customers more customized options for their wireless plans and devices to match their lifestyle needs.
Q: What are the new 3G data plan options?
A: Customers may choose from the following 3G Device Data plans:
3G Feature Phones — $1.99 pay as you go or $15 monthly access for 150 or 150 MB ($15/150 MB overage) or $29.99 for unlimited monthly access.
3G Smartphones Plans — $15 monthly access for 150 MB ($15/150 MB overage) or $29.99 for unlimited monthly access.
3G Tablet Plans — $20 monthly access for 1 GB ($20/1 GB overage), $35 monthly access for 3 GB ($10/ 1 GB overage); $50 monthly access for 5 GB ($10/1 GB overage) and $80 for 10 GB ($10/1G overage).
3G Netbooks/Notebooks Built-In Plans — $50 monthly access for 5 GB ($10/1 GB overage) or $80 monthly access for 10 GB ($10/1 GB overage).
MiFi 2200 and Five Spot Mobile — $50 monthly access for 5 GB ($10 /1 GB overage), $80 for 10 GB ($10/1G overage) or as part of a 90-day promotion $35 monthly access for 3 GB ($10/1 GB overage).
Q: How do these data plans fit in the overall competitive landscape for wireless?
A: We emphasize that our network is unique and personal to each customer. Each device is designed to meet a wide range of needs for a variety of customers, from the stay-at-home mom to the traveling executive. These new data plans correspond with that emphasis and are another step towards giving customers options that will make it easier than ever to stay connected. With customized data plans, customers can get the most of their wireless investments.
Q: Will the data pricing change for 3G USB modems and PC cards?
A: No. The pricing for 3G USB modems and PC cards will remain the same — $39.99 monthly access for 250 MB ($0.10/MB overage) or $59.99 monthly access for 5 GB ($0.05/MB overage).
Q: Will there be any changes to the Prepaid Mobile Broadband structure?
A: No. Prepaid Mobile Broadband plans for 3G USB Modems, Mobile Hotspots, Netbooks and Notebooks Built-In will remain the same, which include:
$15/Day for 100 MB
$30/Week for 300 MB
$50/Month for 1 GB
$80/Month for 5 GB
Q: Why did Verizon Wireless eliminate the $9.99/month data option for the 3G Multimedia phones?
A: Verizon Wireless is launching a variety of new Feature Phones throughout the rest of the year. These devices will have text, e-mail, and full multimedia capabilities. While we always encourage our customers to choose a data plan that complements their new phones to avoid unexpected data charges, we also wanted to give our customers the option to choose pay as you go pricing.
Q: What happens to existing customers?
A: After careful evaluation of their data usage, existing Verizon Wireless customers can migrate to the new data plans at any time.
Q: What is happening with 4G?
A: Verizon Wireless will commercially launch our 4G LTE network in 38 major metropolitan areas, covering more than 110 million Americans, by the end of the year. In addition, we are launching 4G LTE in more than 60 commercial airports coast to coast — both the airports within the launch areas plus airports in other key cities. In subsequent years, an equally aggressive growth plan will result in full nationwide coverage in 2013. We expect the initial devices to be USB modems for laptop connectivity. We expect to offer LTE consumer handsets in mid-year 2011.
Q: What will your 4G data pricing plan structure look like?
A: We’ll offer more information on the data plans for our 4G devices at launch.
Q: Does Verizon Wireless’ decision to update the 3G pricing structure coincide with the fact that you’re concerned with data volumes on the new 4G network?
A: No. We’re focused on offering our current customers using 3G devices with more customized options for accessing the data they need when they need it.
