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Written by David R Jennings
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Tuesday, 26 June 2007 |
AT&T released today the rate plans for the iPhone, and is now providing information about the AT&T 3G network.
If you haven't heard iPhone hits the stores this Friday June 29th at 6pm
Several of the draw backs for iPhone are evaporating this week as more information is released. The big news released today is the highly awaited Rate Plans from AT&T. Links from Apple.com now show three basic plans, all of which come with unlimited data and video-voice-mail.
The AT&T Rate plans are 450 minutes for $59.99, 900 minutes for $79.99, and 1350 minutes for $99.99. This IS a competitive rate and beats my similar plan from Verizon which runs $39.99 for coverage and $49.99 for unlimited data. (It's the free data that is the surprise).
Another new link from Apple shows the AT&T coverage and includes a click box to see their 3G services. I was surprised to learn that a great expanse of the US is already covered by AT&T 3G service. Most references to AT&T Wireless only mention the slower "Edge" service, but a small text link to a pop-up explains:
The AT&T 3G / BroadbandConnect network is currently available in most major metropolitan areas and is expanding rapidly.
The enhanced 3G service, when integrated into the iPhone itself, will make the iPhone far more palatable as a wireless internet tool. Although lacking internal support for the 3G network at this week's release the iPhone will include WiFi integration which should help compensate for the slow "Edge" network speed when near a WiFi hotspot.
The missing component for me is only the lack of information about whether the iPhone can be used as a modem for a laptop. Having a backup DSL speed modem available through Verizon has saved many wasted hours when cable and high-speed land-lines have failed. I suspect this will be added to the iPhone at some point but may not be wrapped into the initial release. It's a minor issue for most people, but a major life saver for those with spotty or inconsistent land-line service.
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