Verizon Responds to FCC Inquiry Regarding Increased ETFs

If I recall correctly, 10+ years ago, cell phones cost $400+ full price and only had a $100-$150 ETF on a ONE year contract.

I think if the carriers keep playing these games, they should be required to disclose the actual cost of the phone, and have ETFs based on the phone cost, rather than some arbitrary "advanced device" classification.

Back when government got involved with the pro-ration of ETFs, I don't think it would have gone over well if VZW had said "Sure, we'll pro-rate them, but then we're going to double the overall fee."

 

I guess so many people are ending their Verizon contracts for the iPhone that they needed to do something about it.

 

At least one FCC commissioner finds Verizon's reply unsatisfactory.

BusinessWeek Article

 

You know I was considering the Verizon Droid just to have a taste of Android and Verizon's service for a couple of years, hoping that by then maybe T-Mobile would have the iPhone and switch to them at that time. I even went to the store to give the Motorola Droid a try. But that $350 ETF has now scared me off to the point I might just stay with AT&T. Plus AT&T dropped calls are starting to go away and data getting faster.

 

Here's what I'm noticing with carriers:

AT&T: Expanding their coverage right and left and it doesn't even show up on their map yet it's so new and awesome.
Verizon: 'We got the network and the Droid. Back off and pay us more money. No that's not enough, I said MORE!!!!!!'
Sprint: 'We're losing money so let's improve on customer service and keep our plans cheap.' Also, they are doing pretty well in launching 4G.
T-Mobile: They lack coverage but hit it spot on in pricing. Expanding their coverage just like AT&T is or even buying out Sprint would definitely be good moves for them. If they bought out Sprint integration would be a (choose your explicative) but I think if done right it would be a big win in the wireless community. They could easily become the new Alltel.

 

What are you talking about? AT&T is just as expensive as Verizon and they have no plans for 4G for a year or two. Verizon plans to start deploying LTE in 2010.

 

I'm talking about AT&T trying to improve their network. I didn't say they weren't as expensive or not.

 

Sorry. I was responding to the comment about how the ETF is a turnoff for bobolito. It's just a lot of people in former Alltel markets that weren't divested are right upset at Verizon from some of the feedback I've gotten.