New AT&T Mobile Plans Include Heavy Caveats

Just in time for the launch of a new iPhone model, AT&T Inc. is reportedly reigning in data usage by its customers using smart phones and iPads. A recent AT&T press release introduced new wireless plans, which says will make it much "more affordable" to enjoy the benefits of mobile Internet.

AT&T customers will now be able to pick a plan that best meets their needs: a $15/month entry level plan or a $25/month plan that allows 10 times more data. Current customers will not be required to switch to the new plans, but can choose to do so without a contract extension. (Source: yahoo.com)

Unlimited Access at 20,000 AT&T WiFi Spots

In the AT&T press release, AT&T Mobility and Consumer Markets President and CEO Ralph de la Vega said "To give more people the opportunity to experience these benefits, [AT&T is] breaking free from the traditional 'one-size-fits-all' pricing model and making mobile Internet more affordable to a greater number of people." (Source: att.com)

Included in each plan, at no additional charge, is unlimited access to more than 20,000 AT&T WiFi Hot Spots in the U.S. Customers will be able to use unlimited WiFi wherever it's available.

New Data Plans Has its Caveats

Some users are however outraged with the new data plan as it undermines their flat unlimited fee of $30 per month which was previously offered by AT&T. As Wolfgang Gruener from Tom's Hardware states:

"[The new $15 per month plan offers you 200MB of data, however, if] ... you exceed 200 MB you will get another 200 MB for another $15. Thanks ... oh, wait: This would be $30 for 400 MB while I had unlimited data for the same $30 before? Could it be that this is a possible price increase and not so much a price reduction?"

New Wireless Data Plans Effective June 7, 2010

AT&T will be sending free text messages after their customers reach different usage levels. They'll also provide online tools that show a customer's monthly usage information.

As of yesterday, the new wireless data plans, including a new tethering option, will be available to AT&T customers. Current AT&T texting and voice plans will remain unchanged.

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