Ahead Of Verizon iPhone Launch, AT&T Fights Its Last Battle
by Ammaar Reshi
February 2, 2011
With Verizon's iPhone right around the corner and AT&T just a day away from losing their iPhone exclusivity, they did what every mobile carrier would have done in a time of crisis: Improve your offering, and beg people not to leave. That is, AT&T just increased their tethering plan's data allowance and started promoting their network's ability to use simultaneous voice and data. As announced today by AT&T]:
In addition, also on February 13th, to bring AT&T's smart phone tethering plan in line with the AT&T Mobile Hotspot offer, AT&T will automatically add the additional 2GB of monthly data usage to smart phone customers already on a tethering plan - at no extra charge. Customers will incur the same $20 monthly fee they're accustomed to paying, only now they'll receive an extra 2GB of data each month.As for the email, they are boasting AT&T's ability to simultaneously allow the use of both voice and data. It's quite obviously a stab at Verizon, as their CDMA limitations prevent features like this. And, as a gift of appreciation (or a bribe) AT&T threw in a 25 percent off coupon on any mobile accessory at local AT&T stores. Sure, that'll keep us happy. Not as strong a response as we expected, but maybe they are confident about retaining their customers. Needless to say AT&T will really start reacting after tomorrow when Verizon's iPhone officially goes on sale. We'll keep you updated on this carrier war; meanwhile let us know what you think of this kind gesture in the comments.
