I'm confused at how AT&T will be able to physically regulate using Facetime over a non-shared data plan? Will it be on the software side? Working with Apple on blocking it is the only way I could see them being able to limit the feature...?
Got a tip for us?
Let us know
Become a MacRumors Supporter for $50/year with no ads, ability to filter front page stories, and private forums.
How will AT&T regulate their Facetime policy?
- Thread starter iBreatheApple
- Start date
- Sort by reaction score
I'd think the traffic would be coming across a specific port and they could block it that way, but then again, it's allowable for those on Mobile Share plans. Therefore, it may be a verification step, similar to the way that tethering can be enabled. I know that before I had tethering via the Mobile Share plan, going into that option would check the server side (the activity circle would spin) and then come back saying I'd have to call to enable it. Once it was enabled via the Mobile share plan, clicking on the tethering option simply let me turn it on. Again, maybe the option for 3G Facetime will work similarly.
The same way they block tethering on lines that dont include that feature. Through a carrier configuration file.
Once JB that can be changed easily
Once JB that can be changed easily
The same way they block tethering on lines that dont include that feature. Through a carrier configuration file.
Once JB that can be changed easily
So that obviously has to be implemented into iOS, right? Apple shouldn't allow them to do this. In fact, IMO, it is very (I know many despise this term) "un-Apple" to allow this as I know they don't like inconsistency among their devices. Could Apple not simply say, "no"?
The same way they block tethering on lines that dont include that feature. Through a carrier configuration file.
Once JB that can be changed easily
Yea can we still use the FaceTime over 3G JB app?
I wish they would do something about it but its up to the carrier to decide to get greedy and sneaky or not like Verizon and Sprint that do allow it on all data plans.
AT&T thinks that feature can only work or should be available only on mobile share plans.
What can I say, pretty crappy move by AT&T.
Yes, I been doing it for years
Under Settings, General, Cellular in iOS 6, there's a list of features that you can "Use Cellular Data for." On my 4S, the list is iCloud Documents, iTunes, FaceTime, Passbook Updates and Reading List, all with the On/Off toggle. When you attempt to switch FaceTime to On, you get the alert saying that you need to be on Wi-Fi or have an eligible data plan.
It's apparently verified server-side.
It's apparently verified server-side.
Very interesting discussion. I would guess somewhere in the carriers database system, your phone ID comes across allowing a call to be made. Along the way, it also determines what you are allowed to do - intl, roaming, data, etc. And in this case, facetime.
I am thinking the carrier can do it on their side the same way they verify you are a valid customer in the first place.
I am thinking the carrier can do it on their side the same way they verify you are a valid customer in the first place.
I personally think that is bull. People pay HOW MUCH to At&t, and they can't use facetime, but they can use skype? Its not right that we should have to "pay more" to be able to just facetime. I also think its unfair that don't let higher data plans (AKA ones with tethering) not be able to do this either. I think they should let people do this, and when they burn through all their data, then they can pay more.