This. And that's what I don't understand when people mention words of AT&T Next is a ripoff. i have a family line with 3 on the Next Plan, I don't have a problem with it. Along with the fact I got on the 20 for 10 double data deal that was given for a limited amount of time. I definitely plan on paying the 3 phones off before the time that was given, only gripe I have is I wish that AT&T would offer a chance of paying more toward the balance of the phone instead of paying the full amount to pay it off.
There are a couple groups of people (that I've found) that think next is a ripoff:
1. Those that doesn't want to return the device, calling it a lease.
- well, you don't have to. Returning tbis 100% choice. That said, we just returned one because the difference between buying out and selling to someone privately and returning it was $70. I decided that wasn't worth my effort.
2. Those that would "rather pay $200 to buy a phone on contract".
- some older contract lines do come out cheaper. Many don't sit down and crunch numbers to see what the "total two year cost" of the device would be. And even many of those that do seem like they need to brush up their math skills a bit.
3. They're not looking into deals
- there's always a promotion going somewhere, much like with on contract phones. Often times the $200 on contract phone is $150 or less. While a retailer doesn't have the power to discount a next device, they do have the power to bundle your ourchase with gift cards and various other products. Some will even let you put the value of said gift card towards any applicable taxes on the spot.
4. I had another but it's slipped my mind lol.