Verizon Begins Offering $20 Data Plan
August 22, 2011
The competition for your iDevice dollars is getting more intense as Verizon Wireless announces a new data plan ahead of the likely iPhone 5 launch next month or next.
The largest U.S. carrier has announced a $20 per month 300MB data plan that is launching now in the mid-Atlantic, according to both Cult Of Mac, and 9 To 5 Mac. However, this plan is expected to go nationwide before the end of the year.
The Verizon plan competes directly with AT&T's basic data plan that runs $15 for 200 MB of data. It is currently available to customers in Maryland, North Carolina, Washington, D.C., and Virginia.
According to Mike Maiorana, Verizon’s regional president, the idea behind the plan is to accommodate new users who are adopting smartphones for the first time:
“This is a great introductory plan for customers who have been contemplating moving from a basic phone to a smartphone but were hesitant because of cost. The $20 monthly access promotional plan is an opportunity for customers to learn the many benefits of having a smartphone with email and calendar functions, as well as Internet access and apps, at their fingertips.”We're not sure Verizon's new plan would be enough for a light data user to switch from AT&T, but it is worth considering especially if your contract is up. Still, don't be surprised if AT&T offers a similar (or better) plan very soon. The Verizon plan is available in the aforementioned states right now for any of your iDevices.