Here is another transcript from a chat I just had. I don't know how this could be any more clear.
T-Mobile: We have received your information and will connect you with a T-Mobile Chat Specialist soon.
Jennifer: Thank you for visiting T-Mobile today! How may I help you?
You: Hello. I am not a current customer, but am inquiring about your new free for life 200mb plan launching on 11/1/13
You: I am looking to purchase the new iPad Air which also launches on 11/1/13 under your EIP plan, which according to your press release will cost $26 monthly.
Jennifer: Thats good to hear that you are interested in our iPad Air/iPad Mini. As of this time, the price of the device is unavailable but the good news is, you can Pre-register online. You would need to fill-out a form with your contact information and a valid email address. Once you've completed the registration, we'll send you an email as soon as the phone is available and ready to order. This is not a guarantee that you will be given a priority with your order if you register online. It is just an email notification that the phone is available to order.
You: I've already completed pre registration but was wondering if there will be any additional MONTHLY charges that come with the $26 monthly installment plan? Like do I need to pay anything else monthly in order to get the free 200mb?
You: I'm aware there will be a credit check, which is fine. I just want to know do I need some sort of plan in order to qualify for the free 200mb?
Jennifer: In order to get the 200 MB of free Starter Data, you need to have an active Mobile Internet account with T-Mobile.
You: Is there a monthly cost for an active mobile internet account?
Jennifer: There are several options to choose from depending on your data usage needs. We offer 500MB a month for $20, 2GB for $30, 4GB for $40, 6GB for $50, 8GB for $60, 10GB for $70, and 12GB for $80 a month.
You: The way I am understanding this, is all I need to do is pass a credit check, pay monthly installments on the iPad Air, and I get 200mb of data for free, without paying ANYTHING else, other than the $26 for the ipad.
You: That's why I'm asking, do I have to pay for a mobile internet account monthly?
Jennifer: Aside from the monthly cost of the device you will also be paying the monthly cost of the plan so you can get the free 200MB.
Jennifer: Letting you know, I am still here for you. Can I answer any questions you have?
You: So, that means that on Friday, 11/1/13, when I go to pick up the ipad Air, I will have to sign up for a mobile internet account, which according to your post, is a minimum of $20 per MONTH? Meaning, my total cost MONTHLY will be $26 for the iPad Air, AND $20 for the 500mb plan (minimum), for a total cost of around $46 monthly for 24 months. And I get the 200mb for free on top of the 500mb?
Jennifer: Yes that is correct! You will be paying $46 a month for the plan and the device and you will get the free 200MB in top of the 500MB high speed data of the plan.
You: And if I pay off the ipad in, say, 6 months and I don't want the 500mb plan any more, will I still get the 200mb?
Jennifer: You can have the free 200MB as long as the plan and the account is still active.
Jennifer: I haven't heard from you recently, how are things coming along?
You: Meaning, if I pay off the ipad, and still paying for the plan?
You: The monthly $20 for the 500mb?
Jennifer: Yes that is correct! Once the device is paid off, your monthly bill will be lowered to $20, in which it is the monthly cost of the plan.
You: OK, you've answered all my questions. Thanks so much!
Jennifer: You are most welcome. Is there anything else I can help you with today?
You: No, thanks, you've been helpful
Jennifer: You are most welcome, my pleasure to assist you.
Jennifer: Please feel free to chat with us again should you have additional questions.
Jennifer: Thank you for visiting T-Mobile.com today.
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The 200mb is free. No contract. No nothing.
Why do people keep trying to insist on this?
I'm aware there is no contract, I just wanted to know for sure if all I would be paying monthly is just the $26 for the ipad, or that AND something else. I'm being told you do need a plan.