[BMW F22]

So strange. I called the Apple store again and they told e they don't sell any unlocked phones right now. I think they were instructed to say so because i don't think it's true.

[RickFLM4]

I'm still trying to figure out all the different options. One thing I found odd is on the Apple site where it talks about the annual upgrade program with an unlocked phone it sorta sounds like you have to pay for it monthly (not pay upfront). The AT&T monthly program is also confusing, at least to me, and sounds like you'd be tied to AT&T as much as you would with a contract if you enroll in one of their "Next" programs. Until I can figure out what is the best avenue, just sticking with the 5S for now.

[justinnum1]

All the phones are unlocked, just go into the store and tell them to ring it out as "device only"

got a 6s plus, but its too big, either going to get the regular 6s or go back to my 5s.

[BMW F22]

Went to 2 stores today and asked and they both told me that if the phones were purchased outright they are unlocked.

[RickFLM4]

Ok that's good news.

How does cost of monthly service compare if you buy the phone outright (or I guess buy from Apple and finance it)? I expect it should be less expensive than if you are financing the phone through the carrier or signing a 2-year contract with phone subsidy, but it isn't clear, at least on the AT&T site.

[BMW F22]

Originally Posted by RickFLM4

Ok that's good news.

How does cost of monthly service compare if you buy the phone outright (or I guess buy from Apple and finance it)? I expect it should be less expensive than if you are financing the phone through the carrier or signing a 2-year contract with phone subsidy, but it isn't clear, at least on the AT&T site.

From what I know carriers have ditched the susidized plan in ordered to offer lower monthly rates. At&t has At&t Next plan in which you finance the month for 18, 20, and 24 months (I think). You do own the phone at the end though. The Apple plan basically allows you to lease the phone and comes with Apple Care. You end up paying for about half of the cost of the phone + Apple care over a year. Usually that is how much the current model would depreciate after a year anyway when the new one is announced.

[RickFLM4]

That's why I expect that if you buy the phone outright from Apple, the monthly bill from AT&T should be less since there is no cost of the phone rolled in. I just can't see that is the case based in what info. AT&T has in their site so I guess I'll have to stop by a store or call them. (AT&T still has a 2-year contract deal that looks about the same as the NEXT deal monthly cost-wise except no trade in before 2 years. However, with NEXT, it seems like you just start a new cycle when you trade in so you're sort of linked to AT&T indefinitely until you stop trading in it or payoff the full price of the phone.)

[doe]

[justinnum1]

Originally Posted by RickFLM4

Ok that's good news.

How does cost of monthly service compare if you buy the phone outright (or I guess buy from Apple and finance it)? I expect it should be less expensive than if you are financing the phone through the carrier or signing a 2-year contract with phone subsidy, but it isn't clear, at least on the AT&T site.

The carriers charge 2 fees; they charge a plan fee(for the talk, text, and data) and they charge a "line fee"-this can vary depending on what kind of plan you go with. Also, with a 2yr contract, there are hidden costs built in, basically you are paying the full price of the phone, and you can get screwed if you keep the phone longer than 2 years.


The next plan and other financing plans are good because they are 0% interest, do a good job separating the bill so you know what you are paying for the phone and what you are paying for service. and allow you to upgrade as soon as 12 months(in time for a new phone)

thats on top of other smaller charges like taxes and fees and stuff, usually 10bucks.