Cool device WITHOUT a DATA PLAN? Where?

Good question. I think most US network operators now-a-days are forcing you to take data plans if you have a smartphone, weather you like it or not. You could try asking the operator directly (AT&T, Verizon, etc) if they could block all data to your phone, and hence there would be no reason for you having a data plan maybe?

 

If there was a data block on one's account prior to the carriers enacting the mandatory data plan, that's the only exception (at least with Verizon anyway). Otherwise, it's a given, whether people like it or not.

 

If the OP is willing to stay with AT&T (or go to T-Mobile), perhaps he could buy unlocked phone (smartphone or otherwise) that the carrier does not carry? This would preclude the Blackberry line (?) though. For instance, buy a Nokia E63 from NokiaUSA.com and stick your SIM in it.

On T-Mobile, the new Nokia Neuron doesn't require a data plan (well, it didn't force one upon me when I went to check out). Since AT&T doesn't sell the Neuron, just stick the SIM in the unlocked version of the phone....

If you want a AT&T non-smartphone QWERTY, It looks like spending $20 or more for data and messaging will meet the requirements