Everybody needs to sign

[xanadeath]

We don't know what could happen. Its not like AT&T couldn't offer current iPhone owners a subsidized price. They get like 1600 dollars out of us during the 2 year contract period. What I think we should do is spread the word to everyone...not just the people on these forums. Myspace, twitter, facebook, your own website....whatever you can do. The more people sign it the better, so don't be greedy and keep the link to yourself, and don't start thinking you can't make a difference. http://twitition.com/f96aq

[jmann]

I'm sick of theses people whining about not being "special" and being able to upgrade every year, even though they all willingly signed a TWO year contact. Buy it at full price if you really want it that bad. :)

[Runt888]

Where's the petition to get people to stick to the terms of their contract? I would sign that one in a heartbeat...

[gloss]

Where's the petition to get people to stick to the terms of their contract? I would sign that one in a heartbeat...

Ditto.

[siufai]

Current 3G owners do get a semi-subsidized price, but instead of $400, you get $200 off the actual price of the phone.

[xanadeath]

We are not whining about not being special, we all know that AT&T is getting plenty of money. They have the ability to offer current iphone owners a subsidized price if they wanted to. We pay over 50 dollars month for two years. That is more than the iPhone....so they could still make a profit.

[NinjaHERO]

Ditto.

Sign me up for that one too. Honor your contracts.

[jmann]

We are not whining about not being special, we all know that AT&T is getting plenty of money. They have the ability to offer current iphone owners a subsidized price if they wanted to. We pay over 50 dollars month for two years. That is more than the iPhone....so they could still make a profit.

What did you expect when you signed your two year contract last year?

[NinjaHERO]

What did you expect when you signed your two year contract last year?

Maybe they thought contracts worked like dog years. One human year equals two cell phone years???

[xanadeath]

Current 3G owners do get a semi-subsidized price, but instead of $400, you get $200 off the actual price of the phone.
Yah but there are also those who early upgraded to the 3G and now have to pay no-commitment pricing for the 3G S. And even for those who can early upgrade..... Think about what position we are going to be in when the 4th generation iPhone releases. We are all going to have to pay a fortune for it because we have already used up an early upgrade.

[jmann]

Maybe they thought contracts worked like dog years. One human year equals two cell phone years???

Oh that makes complete sense. Thanks for clearing that up. ;)

[redman042]

I'm going to circulate a petition insisting that AT&T stop trying to be profitable. This is ridiculous. Screw the impending shareholder lawsuit - they should just give the damn phones away.

And next I'm going to go to my boss and tell him he can roll my pay back to the same salary I started out at when I joined the company. Why should I deserve more money each year? I'm ripping him off and I should go apologize to him.

[Small White Car]

We are not whining about not being special, we all know that AT&T is getting plenty of money. They have the ability to offer current iphone owners a subsidized price if they wanted to. We pay over 50 dollars month for two years. That is more than the iPhone....so they could still make a profit.

How much does it cost to run a celular network? The servers, the towers, and so on. How many employees does AT&T have? What do they pay for their heath care? Their 401ks? How much does it cost to run the AC in their buildings? What rent to they pay on their stores? What is the price of gas for their trucks every day? How much did all those trucks cost to buy? How much is the network upgrade to the next-gen 3G going to cost? What do they spend on marketing?

I'll sign the petition once you provide me with all of this information, which you clearly seem to have.

[Runt888]

Yah but there are also those who early upgraded to the 3G and now have to pay no-commitment pricing for the 3G S. And even for those who can early upgrade..... Think about what position we are going to be in when the 4th generation iPhone releases. We are all going to have to pay a fortune for it because we have already used up an early upgrade.

Or keep the great phone you already have, and get the full upgrade price on the 4th generation.

[NinjaHERO]

Or keep the great phone you already have, and get the full upgrade price on the 4th generation.

Whoa whoa Runt, let's not be too logical here. :D

[uberamd]

Here is one exactly the opposite of the original one posted here (http://twitition.com/j5lg6)

[Roy Hobbs]

We don't know what could happen. Its not like AT&T couldn't offer current iPhone owners a subsidized price. They get like 1600 dollars out of us during the 2 year contract period. What I think we should do is spread the word to everyone...not just the people on these forums. Myspace, twitter, facebook, your own website....whatever you can do. The more people sign it the better, so don't be greedy and keep the link to yourself, and don't start thinking you can't make a difference. http://twitition.com/f96aq

I am so sick of these people whining.
You signed a contract, deal with it.

[jmann]

Here is one exactly the opposite of the original one posted here (http://twitition.com/j5lg6)

I signed it! :D

[NinjaHERO]

Here is one exactly the opposite of the original one posted here (http://twitition.com/j5lg6)

That's so awesome, I almost created a twitter account just so I could sign it.

[xanadeath]

Or keep the great phone you already have, and get the full upgrade price on the 4th generation.
In the near future there are going to be applications that will only perform as they should on the iPhone 3G S, and why should we sit on the sidelines and watch all the 3G S owners have all the fun. There is only a new iPhone release once a year, so if you can, you should upgrade. If upgrading was a bit more affordable...everybody could be in the game.

[slpdLoad]

Yah but there are also those who early upgraded to the 3G and now have to pay no-commitment pricing for the 3G S. And even for those who can early upgrade..... Think about what position we are going to be in when the 4th generation iPhone releases. We are all going to have to pay a fortune for it because we have already used up an early upgrade.

You have some reading to do. First phone was not subsidized, therefore the first upgrade to the 3G could be subsidized. You do not have to pay no-commitment pricing for the 3Gs, you still get $200 off that price.

If you do not upgrade to S now, you will be free and clear to get a subsidized phone next year, since they are letting people upgrade pretty early. Get a new contract now, and you'll be in the same position next year.

[slpdLoad]

In the near future there are going to be applications that will only perform as they should on the iPhone 3G S, and why should we sit on the sidelines and watch all the 3G S owners have all the fun. There is only a new iPhone release once a year, so if you can, you should upgrade. If upgrading was a bit more affordable...everybody could be in the game.

I want a Ferrari, but I can't afford one. Everyone is entitled to one, right? They should just make them cheaper so I can have one. WAAAHHH.

[bndoarn]

it's not going to happen because then they would have to give it to everyone. let's say they did do it. i have a samsung a-777 an it's on a two-year contract that started about 2-months ago. if i wanted to to get the iPhone 3GS they would make me pay full price. then i could raise hell because they would've let iPhone 3G owners upgrade early for a subsidized price. so you see, they'll just get even more complaining if they allow this.

[jav6454]

We are not whining about not being special, we all know that AT&T is getting plenty of money. They have the ability to offer current iphone owners a subsidized price if they wanted to. We pay over 50 dollars month for two years. That is more than the iPhone....so they could still make a profit.

Yes you are whining. Just this time you are whining to satisfy your own greed. You agreed to the terms when you signed that 2-year contract. Now, honor it.

[xanadeath]

You have some reading to do. First phone was not subsidized, therefore the first upgrade to the 3G could be subsidized. You do not have to pay no-commitment pricing for the 3Gs, you still get $200 off that price.

If you do not upgrade to S now, you will be free and clear to get a subsidized phone next year, since they are letting people upgrade pretty early. Get a new contract now, and you'll be in the same position next year.

False: When you use up one early upgrade you cant do another...I think it is in a 2 year period. So for those who were already in a 2 year contract for any other phone when they early upgraded to the 3G...now they have to pay no-commit pricing for the 3G S.

[Razeus]

jesus christ. ANOTHER thread about this???? Where are the moderators on this forum??

[nippyjun]

Does ATT give out subsidized phones yearly for other phones? I think not. So why should they subsidize an iphone yearly?

[coolwater]

I'm sick of theses people whining about not being "special" and being able to upgrade every year, even though they all willingly signed a TWO year contact. Buy it at full price if you really want it that bad. :)


I am sick of both who whine and also the ones that tell the other to shut up. Actually, I am more sick of the latter. America is a free country and if a large number of people feel they are cheated, let them voice their opinion whether they are being reasonable or not. I could see the benefit of better understanding between consumer and business after all this debacle is finished.

[Runt888]

In the near future there are going to be applications that will only perform as they should on the iPhone 3G S, and why should we sit on the sidelines and watch all the 3G S owners have all the fun. There is only a new iPhone release once a year, so if you can, you should upgrade. If upgrading was a bit more affordable...everybody could be in the game.

I seriously doubt that developers would be stupid enough to make applications that don't work well on the previous generation. There's way too many 2G and 3G iPhones out there to just ignore when creating apps. But you need to think of the iPhone as less of a cell phone and more of a computer. There will always be faster computers coming out, and keeping up with the latest and greatest all the time costs a fortune. If you aren't willing to pay to have the best all the time, then be happy with what you have.

[slpdLoad]

False: When you use up one early upgrade you cant do another...I think it is in a 2 year period. So for those who were already in a 2 year contract for any other phone when they early upgraded to the 3G...now they have to pay no-commit pricing for the 3G S.

Ah. But does this apply to people who have only ever had iPhones? (meaning the 3G was the first subsidized phone they ever had?)

Either way, you still want something for nothing.

[rugox]

Wow. For godsakes. Stop this madness. Very selfish.
Pathetic to the maximum.
Petition from people who can't think straight and can't think in a logical way. So damn biased, narrow-minded and self-centered.

Who are you to tell me I should sign or everyone should sign? Damn desperate lunatics. I credit you for at least trying. But guess what, it ain't gonna happen buddy. You need to put yourself in other people's shoes first before you do anything stupid.

[NinjaHERO]

I am sick of both who whine and also the ones that tell the other to shut up. Actually, I am more sick of the latter. America is a free country and if a large number of people feel they are cheated, let them voice their opinion whether they are being reasonable or not. I could see the benefit of better understanding between consumer and business after all this debacle is finished.

Except we are using our free speech to tell them to shut up. So clearly under the constitution we are both entitled to post. The joy of freedom. :D

[xanadeath]

I seriously doubt that developers would be stupid enough to make applications that don't work well on the previous generation. There's way too many 2G and 3G iPhones out there to just ignore when creating apps. But you need to think of the iPhone as less of a cell phone and more of a computer. There will always be faster computers coming out, and keeping up with the latest and greatest all the time costs a fortune. If you aren't willing to pay to have the best all the time, then be happy with what you have.

True but with a computer you have many options and the ability to buy the best of the best so it will last a long time. The iPhone 3G S has superior processing capability, so there will be certain apps that will only perform as they should on it. Developers aren't just not going to take advantage of that kind of power.

[coolwater]

Except we are using our free speech to tell them to shut up. So clearly under the constitution we are both entitled to post. The joy of freedom. :D

Yes, indeed. I think I was trying to defend on over the other because I haven't seen them shout back "No, YOU shut up!" :D

[Lenxal]

Xanadeath, you totally ignored Small White Cars post.


How much does it cost to run a celular network? The servers, the towers, and so on. How many employees does AT&T have? What do they pay for their heath care? Their 401ks? How much does it cost to run the AC in their buildings? What rent to they pay on their stores? What is the price of gas for their trucks every day? How much did all those trucks cost to buy? How much is the network upgrade to the next-gen 3G going to cost? What do they spend on marketing?

I'll sign the petition once you provide me with all of this information, which you clearly seem to have.

[NinjaHERO]

Yes, indeed. I think I was trying to defend on over the other because I haven't seen them shout back "No, YOU shut up!" :D

I agree, the 'no, you shut up' theme has yet to kick into high gear. That's when we take it old school, elementary style.

[rdowns]

I signed this one.

http://twitition.com/j5lg6

[xanadeath]

I dont get how anybody could be against a lower iPhone price. Why not sign....really...what have you got to lose?

[Small White Car]

I am sick of both who whine and also the ones that tell the other to shut up. Actually, I am more sick of the latter. America is a free country and if a large number of people feel they are cheated, let them voice their opinion whether they are being reasonable or not. I could see the benefit of better understanding between consumer and business after all this debacle is finished.

But why do we need so many threads? What was wrong with all the others that he had to start a new one? Can't everyone express their opinion in the other threads devoted to the same subject?

[jman240]

In the near future there are going to be applications that will only perform as they should on the iPhone 3G S, and why should we sit on the sidelines and watch all the 3G S owners have all the fun. There is only a new iPhone release once a year, so if you can, you should upgrade. If upgrading was a bit more affordable...everybody could be in the game.

Wrong. The 2nd gen iPod Touch is faster than the iPhone 3G (look it up) and there aren't applications that leave the iPhone out of the loop.

http://toucharcade.com/2008/11/23/2nd-generation-ipod-touch-faster-than-iphone/

Ill even quote the article for you.

The most clear difference is that fact that the iPod Touch's processor was quietly boosted to 532MHz (up from 412MHz) with the 2nd generation model introduced in September. Meanwhile, the iPhone 3G, Original iPhone and 1st Generation iPod Touch continue to run at the original 412MHz. Though not the intended purpose, this video from Handheld Games Corp shows that the app load time of the 2nd Generation iPod Touch is notably faster than the 1st Generation model.

BAM!

I win!

In all seriousness though. Until we see this thing, everything is speculation. Though I will say the iPod touch is snappier than my iPhone when doing side by side comparisons.

As for you contract whiners, go freaking read your contract. You can cancel your service right now for about $115 if you've had it for 12 months. That knocks the entry 3GS price to $299 about for the 16 gig. Other than that, all i have to say is WHAAAAAAA. No one cares.

[Small White Car]

I dont get how anybody could be against a lower iPhone price. Why not sign....really...what have you got to lose?

Uh, higher rates for everyone else?

Thanks for trying to screw us for your own personal gain.

And you're confused why some people might not like that idea?

[Runt888]

True but with a computer you have many options and the ability to buy the best of the best so it will last a long time. The iPhone 3G S has superior processing capability, so there will be certain apps that will only perform as they should on it. Developers aren't just not going to take advantage of that kind of power.

No, with a computer you don't have the option to buy the best of the best so it will last a long time. Pretty much as soon as you buy a new computer, something better comes out. I just got a new laptop last month, and there is already a better and faster one out.

As for the 3G S, developers will start to take advantage of the extra power, but the vast majority will also ensure that their apps work on the older phones as well. And no one is telling you that you can't upgrade to the 3G S, all they are saying is that they won't pay for part of it for you. Apple sets the price of the phone, you are more than welcome to pay that price for the latest and greatest.

[nabechu]

Ditto.

Would sign that too

[Lenxal]

con⋅tract
  /n., adj., and usually for v. 15–17, 21, 22 ˈkɒntrækt; otherwise v. kənˈtrækt/ Show Spelled Pronunciation [n., adj., and usually for v. 15–17, 21, 22 kon-trakt; otherwise v. kuhn-trakt] Show IPA
–noun
1. an agreement between two or more parties for the doing or not doing of something specified.
2. an agreement enforceable by law.
3. the written form of such an agreement.


Most of us don't mind because we KNOW that we agreed to sign a contract and we actually stick to it.

[xanadeath]

Wrong. The 2nd gen iPod Touch is faster than the iPhone 3G (look it up) and there aren't applications that leave the iPhone out of the loop.

http://toucharcade.com/2008/11/23/2nd-generation-ipod-touch-faster-than-iphone/

BAM!

I win!

In all seriousness though. Until we see this thing, everything is speculation. Though I will say the iPod touch is snappier than my iPhone when doing side by side comparisons.

As for you contract whiners, go freaking read your contract. You can cancel your service right now for about $115 if you've had it for 12 months. That knocks the entry 3GS price to $299 about for the 16 gig. Other than that, all i have to say is WHAAAAAAA. No one cares.

No: You lose. All applications run on any device right now....but the performance will suck on an iPhone. The iPod touch 2g can play those games alot better...and the iPhone 3G S will play even better than that.

[ViViDboarder]

We are not whining about not being special, we all know that AT&T is getting plenty of money. They have the ability to offer current iphone owners a subsidized price if they wanted to. We pay over 50 dollars month for two years. That is more than the iPhone....so they could still make a profit.

That's assuming that running all of the towers, filling the stores with people, having people on all the customer service lines and what not all costs nothing. Really? AT&T and ANY company that is successful is in the BUSINESS of making money.

You got a job? How much are your bills?

Petition for OP to give me some of his leftover income. He'll still make a profit.

[NinjaHERO]

con⋅tract
  /n., adj., and usually for v. 15–17, 21, 22 ˈkɒntrækt; otherwise v. kənˈtrækt/ Show Spelled Pronunciation [n., adj., and usually for v. 15–17, 21, 22 kon-trakt; otherwise v. kuhn-trakt] Show IPA
–noun
1. an agreement between two or more parties for the doing or not doing of something specified.
2. an agreement enforceable by law.
3. the written form of such an agreement.


Most of us don't mind because we KNOW that we agreed to sign a contract and we actually stick to it.

Oh, you mean a contract isn't a piece of paper that I can ignore anytime it makes me sad??:D

[PaulieORF]

Man, I wish Apple stuck with the non-subsidized only sales model as they had wtih the original iPHone. It was clear cut, and there would be no talk of "unfiar" pricing.

[xanadeath]

No, with a computer you don't have the option to buy the best of the best so it will last a long time. Pretty much as soon as you buy a new computer, something better comes out. I just got a new laptop last month, and there is already a better and faster one out.

As for the 3G S, developers will start to take advantage of the extra power, but the vast majority will also ensure that their apps work on the older phones as well. And no one is telling you that you can't upgrade to the 3G S, all they are saying is that they won't pay for part of it for you. Apple sets the price of the phone, you are more than welcome to pay that price for the latest and greatest.
1. what I meant was you could et a computer that would last a hell of a long time if you buy it right. 2. And working isnt what I would want, I would want all my applications to run just as the developer intended them to.

[coolwater]

I dont get how anybody could be against a lower iPhone price. Why not sign....really...what have you got to lose?

They are all on APPLE's pay roll. ;)

Seriously, even though I do understand where you're coming from, a 2-year contract is a 2-year contract. AT&T making billions of dollars on us iPhone users and why won't they show some generosity argument is another matter, though.

[ViViDboarder]

No: You lose. All applications run on any device right now....but the performance will suck on an iPhone. The iPod touch 2g can play those games alot better...and the iPhone 3G S will play even better than that.

After reading the post and your response... You two are saying the same thing. So... No loser? Both of you said the apps will run on all devices but faster on the iTouch 2G than the iPhone 3G and will be faster still on the iPhone 3Gs than the iTouch 2G.

Lawyered.

[ksz]

I am so sick of these people whining.
You signed a contract, deal with it.
Agreed. Contracts are on a 2-year cycle. iPhones are on a 1-year cycle. Are these people going to repeat their whines every single year for the rest of their lives?

If you want the upgrade price, just wait another year and buy the latest and greatest, which I know you will want so much more than today's measly 3G S.

[damesJ]

For some reason even though I know I'm going to get annoyed reading these stupid posts I still do. And every time I just want to bang my head against a wall.

I honestly think you have a better chance signing a petition and sending it to Obama. I'm sure he'll give you guys some handouts so you can buy the new iphone.

[kasei]

You need to have one of these for the data and text plans. Those need to be adjusted.

[NinjaHERO]

For some reason even though I know I'm going to get annoyed reading these stupid posts I still do. And every time I just want to bang my head against a wall.

I honestly think you have a better chance signing a petition and sending it to Obama. I'm sure he'll give you guys some handouts so you can buy the new iphone.

An AT&T iphone buyers bailout....oh crap, don't give him any more ideas.

[ViViDboarder]

An AT&T iphone buyers bailout....oh crap, don't give him any more ideas.

Maybe this was the "Change" we heard so much about! Lower prices for people who don't deserve it! Go Socialism! ;) Haha

[xanadeath]

Hahah funny (sarcasm)

[jman240]

After reading the post and your response... You two are saying the same thing. So... No loser? Both of you said the apps will run on all devices but faster on the iTouch 2G than the iPhone 3G and will be faster still on the iPhone 3Gs than the iTouch 2G.

Lawyered.

Yeah I lol'd at that, thanks for pointing it out. I was joking around but it's nice to see a comparison for gaming on a website like that. Notice they just adjust the games for slower hardware rather than leave them out as was my original point.

[xanadeath]

I put a poll up....yay....petition competition

[darngooddesign]

hahahah AT&T has xanadeath by the balls. Guess he shouldn't have gone for the shiny 3G carrot. Have fun waiting a year sucka.

[MadMacxxx]

I'm sick of theses people whining about not being "special" and being able to upgrade every year, even though they all willingly signed a TWO year contact. Buy it at full price if you really want it that bad. :)
yea....so NO, the pricing is FINE. No one remembers what iPhones costs BEFORE AT&T's subsidies? $600-700 for everyone, regardless of upgrade eligibility....1st gen iPhone. You early upgraders are LUCKY they are offering you another subsidized price when they could just charge you full. STOP COMPLAINING.

[slpdLoad]

Do loyal AT&T iPhone owners...

Once again, you think you are special.

...deserve a more reasonable early upgrade cost?

So you're agreeing that that the current situation is reasonable then? ;)

[robothero]

I'm sorry, but trying to get out of your contract before it has completed isn't exactly the definition of "loyal"

[xanadeath]

lets put it this way.....I think we deserve a cheaper price....But as long as I don't have to pay no-commit pricing ill be O.K.......for now. When the 4th generation iPhone comes out....I will be screwed and so will a lot of other people. I am upgrading either way....and anybody who is upgrading could sure as hell use a cheaper upgrade cost...especially if they are being quoted no-commit

[gloss]

lets put it this way.....I think we deserve a cheaper price....But as long as I don't have to pay no-commit pricing ill be O.K.......for now. When the 4th generation iPhone comes out....I will be screwed and so will a lot of other people. I am upgrading either way....and anybody who is upgrading could sure as hell use a cheaper upgrade cost...especially if they are being quoted no-commit

You could just pay the no-commitment pricing and be able to upgrade whenever the heck you feel like it. You're looking at about 5 months worth of cell phone bills for the opportunity, but hey, it's freedom.

[jman240]

lets put it this way.....I think we deserve a cheaper price....But as long as I don't have to pay no-commit pricing ill be O.K.......for now. When the 4th generation iPhone comes out....I will be screwed and so will a lot of other people. I am upgrading either way....and anybody who is upgrading could sure as hell use a cheaper upgrade cost...especially if they are being quoted no-commit

Hate to break it to you and everyone else who thinks they deserve something. You don't. (trying to sound as nice as possible).
http://www.wireless.att.com/cell-phone-service/legal/plan-terms.jsp

[Runt888]

lets put it this way.....I think we deserve a cheaper price....But as long as I don't have to pay no-commit pricing ill be O.K.......for now. When the 4th generation iPhone comes out....I will be screwed and so will a lot of other people. I am upgrading either way....and anybody who is upgrading could sure as hell use a cheaper upgrade cost...especially if they are being quoted no-commit

What have you done to deserve it?

[citron230]

This is stupid!
Current 3G owners, if you bought one subisidized, already got like $400 off the first iPhone 3G. 16GB for $299, verses $699 full price. That is alot.
Now you can get $200 off this iPhone, the 3Gs is you are eligble for an early upgrade. I am paying $499 for my 32GB 3Gs. That is $200 off the full price for upgrading a year into my contract and earlier than my Dec. 2009 date. It sounds fair to me.
Why does everyone want something for nothing??

[xanadeath]

You could just pay the no-commitment pricing and be able to upgrade whenever the heck you feel like it. You're looking at about 5 months worth of cell phone bills for the opportunity, but hey, it's freedom.
If i were to do it that way I would save about 200 dollars in the long run...assuming the price points remain the same. And I couldnt afford to do no commit now even if I wanted to. So now I am stuck with early upgrade now then no-commit next year.

[NinjaHERO]

What have you done to deserve it?

They started this thread.....they think that counts;)

[aethelbert]

I put a poll up....yay....petition competition
Ah, the bitter taste of rejection!

[darngooddesign]

lets put it this way.....I think we deserve a cheaper price....

You got the cheaper price last year, and you'll get the cheaper price next year.

Get over yourself.

[ViViDboarder]

lets put it this way.....I think we deserve a cheaper price....But as long as I don't have to pay no-commit pricing ill be O.K.......for now. When the 4th generation iPhone comes out....I will be screwed and so will a lot of other people. I am upgrading either way....and anybody who is upgrading could sure as hell use a cheaper upgrade cost...especially if they are being quoted no-commit

Anyone who owns a 2G or a 3G will not be screwed. It's the same way upgrades work with ANY phone. You wait until you are eligible. If you have a 2G or a 3G you just wait until you're eligible and then wait for the phone you want to be out. I bought a 3G on release day last year and I pretty much assumed that the iPhone is on a 1 year cycle and my plan is a 2 year cycle. Under these circumstances, to get the fully discounted upgrade price, I have to skip a generation. I, and any 2G or 3G owner who skips the 3Gs, will not be screwed when the 4th generation comes out.

It's up to you if you want to waste time with these petitions. Go ahead. It does not make any sense for AT&T to listen to them. Of COURSE they know if they lowered the cost more people would buy it. They chose price points for a reason.

[xanadeath]

You got the cheaper price last year, and you'll get the cheaper price next year.

Get over yourself.
If I use an early upgrade this year i cant use one next year...so next year I will have to pay no-commit pricing.

[synth3tik]

One word for all you.


CONTRACT

Now get on with life.

[robothero]

So looks like your options are to not upgrade until next year, or pay more money next year.

Deal with it.

[ViViDboarder]

If I use an early upgrade this year i cant use one next year...so next year I will have to pay no-commit pricing.

Yes. You get it finally. That's the way contracts work. They don't lower prices for nothing.

[Runt888]

They started this thread.....they think that counts;)

Oh yeah, how did I miss that? :confused:

[NinjaHERO]

One word for all you.


CONTRACT

Now get on with life.

They are trying to counter your word with the word petition. Interestingly enough, both words contain the same number of letters. Wonder how that affects their power?

[jman240]

If I use an early upgrade this year i cant use one next year...so next year I will have to pay no-commit pricing.

Wrong again. Early upgrades are offered after 12 months of your commitment are met. Meaning....

If you pay 399/499 this year (early upgrade pricing)

assuming the price is the same variable next year...

You again, 12 months from now, will be offered an early upgrade for the next one as well.

Here's how it works. You signed a 2 year contract with ATT for the 3G, after half of that is up or 12 months you are eligable for "Early Upgrade Pricing on all Phones" and after 24 months (looks like 18 rather but same diff) you would be eligible for "Upgrade Pricing on all Phones". If you take advantage of your Early Upgrade Pricing now, your old two year contract is eliminated and you will now have a fresh two year contract, meaning, 12 months down the road you will be in exactly the same boat.

[cwwilson]

iPhone owners deserve to upgrade to the newest version at any time because we're above all others in the cell phone world. We come first.

j/k but what the hell, signed.

[slpdLoad]

If I use an early upgrade this year i cant use one next year...so next year I will have to pay no-commit pricing.

I believe that is what people call a consequence of a choice you make. Welcome to life.

[NinjaHERO]

Oh yeah, how did I miss that? :confused:

Don't feel bad, I think the evidence was hidden under a mountain of petitions.

[xanadeath]

Wrong again. Early upgrades are offered after 12 months of your commitment are met. Meaning....

If you pay 399/499 this year (early upgrade pricing)

assuming the price is the same variable next year...

You again, 12 months from now, will be offered an early upgrade for the next one as well.

Here's how it works. You signed a 2 year contract with ATT for the 3G, after half of that is up or 12 months you are eligable for "Early Upgrade Pricing on all Phones" and after 24 months you would be eligible for "Upgrade Pricing on all Phones". If you take advantage of your Early Upgrade Pricing now, your old two year contract is eliminated and you will now have a fresh two year contract, meaning, 12 months down the road you will be in exactly the same boat.

Whoa....are you sure...how do you know this...and as far as I know isnt the only phone from AT&T that has an early upgrade option the iPhone?

[robothero]

No. iPhones aren't special.

[Runt888]

Don't feel bad, I think the evidence was hidden under a mountain of petitions.

LOL...awesome...

Thanks for the laugh. :D

[MacNut]

I dont get how anybody could be against a lower iPhone price. Why not sign....really...what have you got to lose?How the hell is Apple going to make money if they just give away iPhones for $199.

[feelthefire]

I dont get how anybody could be against a lower iPhone price. Why not sign....really...what have you got to lose?

Because I get upgrade pricing because I honored my contract. If you get it for NOT honoring yours, then that is unfair to me. So, I'm against it.

Cell phone agreements are for two years. You don't get the latest and greatest for free, ever. Pay to be an early adopter.

[xanadeath]

How the hell is Apple going to make money if they just give away iPhones for $199.
Cuz they end up getting a lot of money out of you in that 2 year period of the contract

[Runt888]

Cuz they end up getting a lot of money out of you in that 2 year period of the contract

They end up getting more money from you if they make you stick to your contract.

[darngooddesign]

If I use an early upgrade this year i cant use one next year...so next year I will have to pay no-commit pricing.

Yep, so deal with it and wait a year.

[xanadeath]

iPhone owners deserve to upgrade to the newest version at any time because we're above all others in the cell phone world. We come first.

j/k but what the hell, signed.
Good job...you deserve a cookie...sorry I ate it

[robothero]

Pretty sure it's AT&T that is making the money out of you over the course of the contract.

[NinjaHERO]

Good job...you deserve a cookie...sorry I ate it

You want free phones and you steal peoples cookies.....dude, there is no way I can cheer for you or your cause. You'r just mean. :mad:

[MacNut]

Cuz they end up getting a lot of money out of you in that 2 year period of the contractNo but you want to opt out of that after the first year.

[SIUGRAD99]

I've had AT&T as my provider for over 10 years and they don't owe me a damn thing. YOU thats right YOU signed the contract and that means YOU, yes YOU have to honor it or payback the $ they have already put out to cover the cost of your current phone. I am soo sick of all these entitled whiners. Pay the $ or wait until you are eligible, but please stop blaming others for your own decisions. If you are on Macrumors then I assume you are smart enough to think ahead and realize Apple will be doing this every year and that next year those of us who buy the new one will have the same decision to make.

[yg17]

Every other month, new and improved versions of BlackBerries, Nokias, Windows Mobiles and other smartphones are released with a better processor. And AT&T, or any other carrier for that matter, doesn't just void the contracts of people who bought those phones so they can upgrade, what the hell makes iPhone owners so special? No one is FORCING you to upgrade. Your iPhone 3G is going to work just as well after the 3GS comes out as it did before. You can do what I'm doing and keep your 3G for another year until you're eligible for the full subsidy. You're choosing to sign a contract and buy a new phone, that's your choice, not AT&Ts.

[xanadeath]

I've had AT&T as my provider for over 10 years and they don't owe me a damn thing. YOU thats right YOU signed the contract and that means YOU, yes YOU have to honor it or payback the $ they have already put out to cover the cost of your current phone. I am soo sick of all these entitled whiners. Pay the $ or wait until you are eligible, but please stop blaming others for your own decisions. If you are on Macrumors then I assume you are smart enough to think ahead and realize Apple will be doing this every year and that next year those of us who buy the new one will have the same decision to make.
And as the years go by more people will join us

[jman240]

Whoa....are you sure...how do you know this...and as far as I know isnt the only phone from AT&T that has an early upgrade option the iPhone?

Easy, on the ATT website it says you need to sign a new 2 year contract and pay $18 early upgrade fee. To me this says a new two year contract is just that, a new contract and is thus bound by the same rules that govern the 2 year contract which is after 12 months you get an early upgrade price for all phones.

Ill look for a more official link if you want me to.

[NinjaHERO]

And as the years go by more people will join us

Join you?

Did you just form a church or is this more of the dark side kind of deal?

[SIUGRAD99]

i'm going to guess that you are probably under the age of 20 am I correct?

[xanadeath]

Easy, on the ATT website it says you need to sign a new 2 year contract and pay $18 early upgrade fee. To me this says a new two year contract is just that, a new contract and is thus bound by the same rules that govern the 2 year contract which is after 12 months you get an early upgrade price for all phones.

Ill look for a more official link if you want me to.

If you could I would appreciate it...maybe if its true ill go neutral , then maybe everyone on the forums wont hate me....lol

[dacreativeguy]

Where's the petition to get people to stick to the terms of their contract? I would sign that one in a heartbeat...

This is the real issue right? Nobody wants to take responsibility for their decisions. It's just like all the subprime homeowners who want the banks to rewrite their loans that they could never afford to pay. Professional athletes whine and cause trouble for their team when they want to get out of a $100M contract when they think they should be earning $101M.

You made the decision to sign a 2 year contract. I made the decision to keep my 1st Gen iphone for an extra year. I am buying a 3rd gen for $199. I will skip next year's iphone and buy the 5th gen for $199.

If you aren't happy with the terms of a deal, DON'T SIGN IT!!!!!

[jman240]

Read this if you want to know about upgrade pricing. It should answer most questions.
http://www.informationweek.com/news/personal_tech/iphone/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=217800737&subSection=News

Read this from a year ago where ATT first starting subsidizing the 3G (and why first generation iphone users got upgrades while even some other phone users had to pay extra)
http://www.intomobile.com/2008/06/10/att-iphone-3g-pricing-upgrade-callingdata-plan-policies-revealed-no-more-revenue-sharing.html

A lot of this still applies and plus, there are videos!
http://www.iphonebuzz.com/att-announces-iphone-3g-prices-for-customers-not-eligible-for-an-upgrade-012827.php

From the death star itself (ATT)
Upgrade Your Phone

You can upgrade to a new phone online within myWireless Account by following these instructions. And for information on upgrade discounts, first check out: What is the AT&T Upgrade Advantage?

From the myWireless Account home page, choose the Check Upgrade Options link in the Phone/Device box or click here: Upgrade (logged in users only).
You will see a list of the lines on your account, with the eligibility status for each.
If a line is not eligible for an upgrade with an equipment discount at this time, you will see a message with the date that the line may be eligible, plus a message that you can take advantage of our no-commitment pricing option.
Select the check boxes for all phones that you wish to upgrade at this time then choose the option, Upgrade Selected Lines.
You will see a list of phones and prices. If desired, select a new phone and continue with the upgrade process.
Add any features and accessories.
Complete checkout: provide your billing and shipping information, review your order, then click Submit.
Note: If a line is not eligible for an upgrade with an equipment discount at this time but you would like to buy a new phone at the no-commitment pricing option, you can complete your purchase online from the Upgrade page.

I really hope this helps you lost people =)

[NinjaHERO]

I really hope this helps you lost people =)

Wait, I get it now. They're lost. They want the new phone for the compass. It all makes sense now.;)

[slpdLoad]

lmao

[jman240]

If you could I would appreciate it...maybe if its true ill go neutral , then maybe everyone on the forums wont hate me....lol

In short I was right with what I said earlier.
Here is a good description, im still trying to find the fine print.
http://blogs.zdnet.com/ip-telephony/?p=3176

[Goona]

Where's the petition to get people to stick to the terms of their contract? I would sign that one in a heartbeat...

Sign me up.

[Goona]

When Palm brings out the Palm 2 or when RIM brings out the Storm 2, will all the people who bought now be upgrading at the same price as new customers?

[jman240]

I found this. Says it better than I can

Source:http://www.informationweek.com/blog/main/archives/2009/06/att_being_unfai.html;jsessionid=YLMDWXL3YVX0YQSNDLPCKH0CJUNN2JVN

AT&T Being Unfairly Hammered Over iPhone Upgrade Fees

Posted by Eric Zeman, Jun 11, 2009 10:39 AM


iPhone 3G owners are in an uproar that they won't be able to enjoy the steep discounts being offered to new (or qualifying) AT&T (NYSE: T) customers when the iPhone 3GS goes on sale next week. Get over it. This is the way the cell phone industry works, and you signed a contract. Know what your responsibilities are before you sign, and then remember that you need to honor your legal responsibilities (and not cry about it).

I've been sitting back the last few days while the blogosphere rages on and on about how "unfair" it is for current iPhone 3G customers to have to pay $200 more for the new iPhone 3GS than new customers would.

Like my colleague Mitch Wagner, I bought the original iPhone on June 29, 2007. Guess what? I paid the full $600 price tag for it. AT&T did not subsidize the cost of that device.

It is that reason alone that I was able to buy the iPhone 3G at the subsidized price -- $300 for the 16GB iPhone 3G -- when it went on sale on July 11, 2009. I also had to renew my contract.

The price of the iPhone 3G, which boasted better specs (3G, GPS, etc.) was $300 only because AT&T subsidized it. The full retail price was over $600. AT&T paid Apple for the device and then re-sold it to me. AT&T offered the $300 price point to the original iPhone adopters because their original phones weren't subsidized. If the original iPhone had been subsidized, those original iPhone owners would not have been offered the subsidized price in 2008.

This year, things are different. Anyone who bought an iPhone 3G received the $300 price because AT&T covered part of the cost on your behalf with the hopes that it would recoup that money over the course of your two-year contract. So far, iPhone 3G owners are only 11 months into their 24-month contracts.

Why, then, is there such outrage that they're not going to be offered subsidized devices? By rights, if an iPhone 3G owner wants to upgrade, AT&T should charge the full retail price of $700 for the iPhone 3GS 32GB. Instead, AT&T is offering a partial subsidy of $200 and charging $500 for it to current iPhone 3G customers rather than the full bill of $700.

Guess what? This is how EVERY wireless operator works when you buy a new, subsidized phone on contract. It's how the industry works. Anyone who wants a new phone in the middle of their contract has to pay the full retail price of the new phone.

If Apple had partnered with any other wireless network operator, the situation would likely be exactly the same as it is today.

Don't blame AT&T for high prices on the iPhone 3GS. It's not their fault Apple built a $700 phone. Cheap phones are not a "right". They are a privilege for those that live up to the contracts they sign.

Live up to yours.

Official Upgrade Doc from ATT http://www.att.com/Common/merger/files/pdf/iPhone/Pricing_Upgrading_FAQs.pdf

[eezing]

Where's the petition to get people to stick to the terms of their contract? I would sign that one in a heartbeat...

This questions is for everyone who voted no:

If At&t were to allow early upgrades with no additional fee, would it negatively effect your life in anyway?

[MacNut]

This questions is for everyone who voted no:

If At&t were to allow early upgrades with no additional fee, would it negatively effect your life in anyway?We all know that wont happen so it is a moot point.

[NinjaHERO]

This questions is for everyone who voted no:

If At&t were to allow early upgrades with no additional fee, would it negatively effect your life in anyway?

If AT&T decides to forgo that particular revenue, where do you think they are going to make it up? Probably from the current customers. So yes, this could very well affect us all.

[Badandy]

@Xanadeath: Please answer the following that was asked on page 1

How much does it cost to run a celular network? The servers, the towers, and so on. How many employees does AT&T have? What do they pay for their heath care? Their 401ks? How much does it cost to run the AC in their buildings? What rent to they pay on their stores? What is the price of gas for their trucks every day? How much did all those trucks cost to buy? How much is the network upgrade to the next-gen 3G going to cost? What do they spend on marketing?

I'll sign the petition once you provide me with all of this information, which you clearly seem to have.



C'mon, anything yet?

Also, here's one of my posts ripped from another thread.


Let's say ATT does what you want them to here. We'll simplify the problem to make it easier for doing calculations.

Let's say two million people upgrade from an iPhone 3G to the iPhone 3GS 16GB and they pay $200 (this is what you are proposing). The retail price is $600. We'll say ATT gets them from Apple for $500 (for the sake of argument).

For each person who buys that iPhone 3GS, ATT has an upfront cash disbursement of $300. Remember, taking a $300 dollar hit right up front on each unit isn't just $300; it's forgoing the rate of return ATT could get investing it other places. We'll peg that at 5% per year compounded monthly.

If 2 million people got that upgrade, ATT would be taking an upfront loss of $600,000,000 (six hundred million dollars). Take that rate of return of 5% and defer those cash disbursements one year into the future to when they would have offered those 3G owners a reduced upgrade when their line became eligible anyway, and they're out out $630,697,138.7 (six hundred and thirty million, six hundred ninety-seven thousand, one hundred thirty-eight dollars...and seventy cents).

So you tell me, do you think they're going to lose over six-tenths of a billion dollars in business by not letting 3G owners upgrade early considering they already have those users locked in for another year?

Honor your contract. You aren't special and you entered into it voluntarily.

/thread

[slpdLoad]

This questions is for everyone who voted no:

If At&t were to allow early upgrades with no additional fee, would it negatively effect your life in anyway?

You're being just as narrow minded as the people voting yes. Breaking contracts, being rewarded for it, and having companies bend to the will of whiners with no logical or financial reason to do so is bad for everyone.

[andyvp]

WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU PEOPLE!!
If you want a new macbook every year guess what, You have to pay full price every time.

They give you a break in the price every two years. They are doing you a favor. Use it for two years then get a new one. I don't understand the sense of entitlement.

I have a gen 1 for almost two years now, I want a 3GS and I can buy one for $199, in two years I can buy a new one at the discount and I’m thankful for it.

I think calling it a subsidy is a misnomer. If I get an iPhone on ebay and sign up AT&T on it I pay the same monthly fee as someone who got a subsidized phone from them. Therefore, they are giving you a discount on hardware every two years so that you will continue to use their service. Thank you for that AT&T!! I do not understand the bad wrap you are getting.

[darngooddesign]

And as the years go by more people will join us

Like a support group for self-entitled whiners. Lots of handholding, hugs, and coffee cake.

[eezing]

You're being just as narrow minded as the people voting yes. Breaking contracts, being rewarded for it, and having companies bend to the will of whiners with no logical or financial reason to do so is bad for everyone.

Answer my question

Also, in every case it is not financially more beneficial to deny a free early upgrade; most certainly in cases where customers go elsewhere after their contract is up because of dissatisfaction. Because of that, the decision for At&t is more difficult than it appears.

[Runt888]

If AT&T decides to forgo that particular revenue, where do you think they are going to make it up? Probably from the current customers. So yes, this could very well affect us all.

Exactly. AT&T can't just start annulling contracts that pretty much guarantee them a certain revenue stream, without coming up with an alternative revenue stream. That would more than likely come in the form of increased rates and fees for existing customers.

[NinjaHERO]

Like a support group for self-entitled whiners. Lots of handholding, hugs, and coffee cake.

Wait, I didn't know there would be cake. Can I switch sides?:D

Answer my question

I did, look up.

[slpdLoad]

Answer my question

No, I would not immediately be affected. :rolleyes:

If that's all the farther you can see into this issue...I'm just going to ignore anything else you have to say.

[Badandy]

Answer my question

Sure. Yes, it would negatively impact everyone. If they now need to make up an additional $300 in the contract they will raise the price on monthly service, making their monthly bill even more unpalatable than it already is. Please, go to business school, or get a little bit of logic. You are a moron if you think ATT should pay $300 to someone who is already locked in on a contract who probably isn't going to leave once his original contract is up anyway.

[darngooddesign]

This questions is for everyone who voted no:

If At&t were to allow early upgrades with no additional fee, would it negatively effect your life in anyway?

Yes.

It would mean my 3G will sell used for far less than I can get now. So all the whiners can suckit and wait a year like every other cellphone user out there.

Not to mention that the subsidized prices would just up by a hundred or two to make up for the loss of revenue.

[darngooddesign]

Wait, I didn't know there would be cake. Can I switch sides?:D.

Don't get too excited. That group is really lame so you get Kroger-quality cake.

[NinjaHERO]

Don't get too excited. That group is really lame so you get Kroger-quality cake.

Why do you build up the dream only to tear it back down?:(

[Cander]

This questions is for everyone who voted no:

If At&t were to allow early upgrades with no additional fee, would it negatively effect your life in anyway?

Yes it will. Either by decreased service and/or increased rates to make up their loses.

[nfl46]

Not at all. YOU signed the TWO year contract, when you KNEW DAMN WELL, Apple comes out with a new iPhone EVERY year. :rolleyes:

You better cough up the 399/499/599/699 if you want it. Read the contract! :rolleyes:

And if you don't like what AT&T is doing, then terminate your account. :)

[darngooddesign]

Why do you build up the dream only to tear it back down?:(

And coffee would be decaf. Sorry that's just the kind of deal you get with whiners like this.

[NinjaHERO]

And coffee would be decaf. Sorry that's just the kind of deal you get with whiners like this.

That's complete crap, where do I start the petition to require better coffee and cake for every group?

[eezing]

Sure. Yes, it would negatively impact everyone. If they now need to make up an additional $300 in the contract they will raise the price on monthly service, making their monthly bill even more unpalatable than it already is. Please, go to business school, or get a little bit of logic. You are a moron if you think ATT should pay $300 to someone who is already locked in on a contract who probably isn't going to leave once his original contract is up anyway.

It doesn't take a business student to understand the long term benefits of customer satisfaction. Most of you are viewing this from the perspective that At&t will definitely loose money by allowing early upgrades. Seriously, look at all the angles here.

I'm not trying to battle anyone here and as a matter of fact I really don't care about this either way. I'm a 3G owner and If At&t allowed free early upgrades and I wanted to reap the benefits of the 3Gs I'd have to throw down $200 plus add an additional year to my contract. I'd probably sell my 3G to make up for the up front costs of the phone, but I'd still be stuck to At&t for two more years for a total of almost 4 years now (I upgrade from the 2G to 3G). :)

[Badandy]

It doesn't take a business student to understand the long term benefits of customer satisfaction. Most of you are viewing this from the perspective that At&t will definitely loose money by allowing early upgrades. Seriously, look at all the angles here.

But it might take a business student to realize iPhone customers operate in a captive market.

[NinjaHERO]

It doesn't take a business student to understand the long term benefits of customer satisfaction. Most of you are viewing this from the perspective that At&t will definitely loose money by allowing early upgrades. Seriously, look at all the angles here.

I'm not trying to battle anyone here and as a matter of fact I really don't care about this either way. I'm a 3G owner and If At&t allowed free early upgrades and I wanted to reap the benefits of the 3Gs I'd have to throw down $200 plus add an additional year to my contract. I'd probably sell my 3G to make up for the up front costs of the phone, but I'd still be stuck to At&t two years. :)

Customer satisfaction is less important when you have a monopoly. Angry or happy, if you want the iphone, legally, you'r stuck with AT&T. So what do they have to lose?

[robothero]

Most of you are viewing this from the perspective that At&t will definitely loose money by allowing early upgrades.

Because AT&T will definitely lose money by allowing early upgrades.

[darngooddesign]

That's complete crap, where do I start the petition to require better coffee and cake for every group?

You can only do that petition every two years.

[NinjaHERO]

Because AT&T will definitely lose money by allowing early upgrades.

LMAO. I can't even put into the words the comic timing of your reply. Thank you.

[eezing]

But it might take a business student to realize iPhone customers operate in a captive market.

Last thing anyone needs is a bad rap, no matter the market.... cough cough... Windows Vista... cough cough Windows Vista 1.5..... I mean Windows 7.

[robothero]

Windows 7 is fantastic.

[eezing]

Because AT&T will definitely lose money by allowing early upgrades.

It's a short term vs. long term situation.

[NinjaHERO]

You can only do that petition every two years.

There you go again, killin my dream. Do you hate me or something?:D

[eezing]

Windows 7 is fantastic.

It is, and so is Vista.

[darngooddesign]

There you go again, killin my dream. Do you hate me or something?:D

Stick with the non-whiners. We have far better pastries, coffee, alcohol, and character.

[StoneColdSober]

I dont get how anybody could be against a lower iPhone price. Why not sign....really...what have you got to lose?

My dignity, integrity, honor, oh he!!, my manhood. You see, I signed a CONTRACT, and I understood then and understand now what that CONTRACT means. I'm sorry if you are too obtuse to get it.

[robothero]

It's a short term vs. long term situation.

Short term, AT&T loses money by covering a large portion of the cost of the phone every time somebody upgrades.

Long term, AT&T loses money because there is no incentive to honor your contract. Devices will be upgraded every year (see above) and ETFs wont mitigate the damage of people moving to other networks.

[NinjaHERO]

Stick with the non-whiners. We have far better pastries, coffee, alcohol, and character.

Sweet. But now it sounds like my D&D group. What kind of character do I get to be? And can he have a battle ipod?

[slpdLoad]

20% of the people who voted should watch this:

Don't Buy Stuff - SNL @ Hulu (http://www.hulu.com/watch/1389/saturday-night-live-dont-buy-stuff#s-p4-sa-i0)

[Runt888]

Last thing anyone needs is a bad rap, no matter the market.... cough cough... Windows Vista... cough cough Windows Vista 1.5..... I mean Windows 7.

AT&T (and pretty much every cell provider) already has a bad rap. I seriously doubt that allowing 3G users to upgrade early will do much to change that, plus it will piss off people with other phones who aren't allowed to upgrade early.

[JReynolds]

HAHAHAHAHA

:eek: This pole back fired! :eek:

HAHAHAHHA

[eezing]

Short term, AT&T loses money by covering a large portion of the cost of the phone every time somebody upgrades.

Long term, AT&T loses money because there is no incentive to honor your contract. Devices will be upgraded every year (see above) and ETFs wont mitigate the damage of people moving to other networks.

Again, someone thinks we're arguing for free early terminations.

Just to throw it out there... You honestly think your phone isn't paid off within the first year of the contract?

[NinjaHERO]

20% of the people who voted should watch this:

Don't Buy Stuff - SNL @ Hulu (http://www.hulu.com/watch/1389/saturday-night-live-dont-buy-stuff#s-p4-sa-i0)

Priceless.

[robothero]

Again, someone thinks we're arguing for free early terminations.

Just to throw it out there... You honestly think your phone isn't paid off within the first year of the contract?

I never said you were arguing for free early terminations. Where did I say that? I said that an ETF + subsidized price != cost of phone.


And no, your phone isn't paid off within the first year of the contract, it is spread out from the end of the first month until you are eligible for an upgrade.

[jman240]

lol, i just realized, how the heck do you make the iPhone 3G plural now.

not capitalize the s mayb. I have 3 iPhone 3Gs?
I have 3 iPhone 3G's?

not to be confused with iPhone 3GS ( iPhone 3G[S] )

[JohnnyQuest]

You signed a two-year contract, suck it up. I'm so sick of everyone asking for Apple to lower prices on the iPhone when you signed a contract for two years.

[Phil A.]

I'm guessing that with over 75% saying no in this poll, it's not gone the way the OP hoped ;)

[slpdLoad]

3G's probably.

3Gies?
3GSes?
3GSSSS?

[JReynolds]

I'm guessing that with over 75% saying no in this poll, it's not gone the way the OP hoped ;)

makes me laugh :p

[eezing]

And no, your phone isn't paid off within the first year of the contract, it is spread out from the end of the first month until you are eligible for an upgrade.

Sure it is. I mean, why would they have you believe differently.

[Badandy]

Sure it is. I mean, why would they have you believe differently.

It doesn't matter whether it's paid for over the first month of the contract. They're a business, they operate FOR profit. The realize that if they offer a $300 subsidy on a $600 phone, people are willing to enter into a 24 month long contract with them. They figured that out.

Further, you really don't think ATT spends millions of dollars on consultants to analyze every aspect of what their pricing policy does for their bottom line? And you think you starting a poll on a Mac website constitutes a more informed opinion than the consultants who have analyzed this exact problem? That's ignorant.

Again, if 2 million people switch to the iPhone 3GS from an iPhone 3G for a subsidized price (as you would have it), ATT would be out $600 million. $600 million. That's assuming Apple gives them a $100 margin, which is probably more than it is actually. This doesn't make sense, and if you try to tell me that whole "long-term" argument holds any water, it doesn't. The people complaining about this will just get the next iPhone, and, again, they have more informed and better paid people than you to figure out the drawbacks of each scenario.

[eezing]

It doesn't matter whether it's paid for over the first month of the contract. They're a business, they operate FOR profit. The realize that if they offer a $300 subsidy on a $600 phone, people are willing to enter into a 24 month long contract with them. They figured that out.

Further, you really don't think ATT spends millions of dollars on consultants to analyze every aspect of what their pricing policy does for their bottom line? And you think you starting a poll on a Mac website constitutes a more informed opinion than the consultants who have analyzed this exact problem? That's ignorant.

Again, if 2 million people switch to the iPhone 3GS from an iPhone 3G for a subsidized price (as you would have it), ATT would be out $600 million. $600 million. That's assuming Apple gives them a $100 margin, which is probably more than it is actually. This doesn't make sense, and if you try to tell me that whole "long-term" argument holds any water, it doesn't. The people complaining about this will just get the next iPhone, and, again, they have more informed and better paid people than you to figure out the drawbacks of each scenario.


- I didn't start this poll.

- Do you think 2 million 3G users would upgrade?

- If the iPhone is the best phone on the market, then yes they'll buy again and again.

I made this point before: Because I'm not upgrading to the 3Gs this year, that leaves me the opportunity to go anywhere else without penalty next year. Given more advanced phone technology on the horizon (Tegra for example), the iPhone may not be the best this time next year. That is bad for At&t. On the other hand, in my case allowing me the choice to upgrade without penalty works in At&t's favor, if I upgrade then they lock me in for another two years. An additional year of service is worth more than $200.