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T-Mobile's "Forced" Migration to More Expensive Plans Begins Today
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sms
Oct 17, 2023, 2:07:41 PM10/17/23
to
<https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
You can opt out by contacting T-Mobile. If you don't opt out then you
will be migrated to a higher cost plan if you are on an affected plan.
Note that the statement of "...consider a cheaper cell phone service
provider that runs on the same network..." leaves out the key issue of
domestic (and international) roaming. An MVNO like Mint or Tello has a
lot less geographic coverage, both domestic and international, than
T-Mobile or Metro.
By making the migration "opt-out" instead of "opt-in" millions of
customers will be upgraded to more expensive plans even though they
don't want to be.
--
“If you are not an expert on a subject, then your opinions about it
really do matter less than the opinions of experts. It's not
indoctrination nor elitism. It's just that you don't know as much as
they do about the subject.”—Tin Foil Awards
You can opt out by contacting T-Mobile. If you don't opt out then you
will be migrated to a higher cost plan if you are on an affected plan.
Note that the statement of "...consider a cheaper cell phone service
provider that runs on the same network..." leaves out the key issue of
domestic (and international) roaming. An MVNO like Mint or Tello has a
lot less geographic coverage, both domestic and international, than
T-Mobile or Metro.
By making the migration "opt-out" instead of "opt-in" millions of
customers will be upgraded to more expensive plans even though they
don't want to be.
--
“If you are not an expert on a subject, then your opinions about it
really do matter less than the opinions of experts. It's not
indoctrination nor elitism. It's just that you don't know as much as
they do about the subject.”—Tin Foil Awards
badgolferman
Oct 17, 2023, 2:34:24 PM10/17/23
to
sms wrote:
><https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
>
>You can opt out by contacting T-Mobile. If you don't opt out then you
>will be migrated to a higher cost plan if you are on an affected plan.
>
>Note that the statement of "...consider a cheaper cell phone service
>provider that runs on the same network..." leaves out the key issue
>of domestic (and international) roaming. An MVNO like Mint or Tello
>has a lot less geographic coverage, both domestic and international,
>than T-Mobile or Metro.
>
>By making the migration "opt-out" instead of "opt-in" millions of
>customers will be upgraded to more expensive plans even though they
>don't want to be.
I did not receive a message about a forced upgrade. I am on Magenta
><https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
>
>You can opt out by contacting T-Mobile. If you don't opt out then you
>will be migrated to a higher cost plan if you are on an affected plan.
>
>Note that the statement of "...consider a cheaper cell phone service
>provider that runs on the same network..." leaves out the key issue
>of domestic (and international) roaming. An MVNO like Mint or Tello
>has a lot less geographic coverage, both domestic and international,
>than T-Mobile or Metro.
>
>By making the migration "opt-out" instead of "opt-in" millions of
>customers will be upgraded to more expensive plans even though they
>don't want to be.
Military plan which I switched to several months ago for no change in
price.
--
"The difference between education and experience is really quite
simple. Education is what you get from reading the fine print;
experience is what you get from not reading it."
candycanearter07
Oct 17, 2023, 2:48:49 PM10/17/23
to
On 10/17/23 13:07, sms wrote:
> <https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
>
> You can opt out by contacting T-Mobile. If you don't opt out then you
> will be migrated to a higher cost plan if you are on an affected plan.
How long did the call take?
> <https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
>
> You can opt out by contacting T-Mobile. If you don't opt out then you
> will be migrated to a higher cost plan if you are on an affected plan.
> By making the migration "opt-out" instead of "opt-in" millions of
> customers will be upgraded to more expensive plans even though they
> don't want to be.
--
user <candycane> is generated from /dev/urandom
Alan Browne
Oct 17, 2023, 2:57:53 PM10/17/23
to
On 2023-10-17 14:07, sms wrote:
> <https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
>
> You can opt out by contacting T-Mobile. If you don't opt out then you
> will be migrated to a higher cost plan if you are on an affected plan.
>
> Note that the statement of "...consider a cheaper cell phone service
> provider that runs on the same network..." leaves out the key issue of
> domestic (and international) roaming. An MVNO like Mint or Tello has a
> lot less geographic coverage, both domestic and international, than
> T-Mobile or Metro.
>
> By making the migration "opt-out" instead of "opt-in" millions of
> customers will be upgraded to more expensive plans even though they
> don't want to be.
This is where social media can come in handy.
> <https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
>
> You can opt out by contacting T-Mobile. If you don't opt out then you
> will be migrated to a higher cost plan if you are on an affected plan.
>
> Note that the statement of "...consider a cheaper cell phone service
> provider that runs on the same network..." leaves out the key issue of
> domestic (and international) roaming. An MVNO like Mint or Tello has a
> lot less geographic coverage, both domestic and international, than
> T-Mobile or Metro.
>
> By making the migration "opt-out" instead of "opt-in" millions of
> customers will be upgraded to more expensive plans even though they
> don't want to be.
Spread the word and provide all the info on how to opt-out.
Loudly and CC to local media.
--
“Markets can remain irrational longer than your can remain solvent.”
- John Maynard Keynes.
sms
Oct 17, 2023, 3:01:39 PM10/17/23
to
On 10/17/2023 11:34 AM, badgolferman wrote:
<snip>
> I did not receive a message about a forced upgrade. I am on Magenta
> Military plan which I switched to several months ago for no change in
> price.
That article states "At the time of writing, it’s believed that
customers on variations of these plans will not be affected. For
example, if you have the Magenta Military plan, you likely won’t be
affected by the forced plan migration."
Looks like you are safe for now.
<snip>
> I did not receive a message about a forced upgrade. I am on Magenta
> Military plan which I switched to several months ago for no change in
> price.
customers on variations of these plans will not be affected. For
example, if you have the Magenta Military plan, you likely won’t be
affected by the forced plan migration."
Looks like you are safe for now.
sms
Oct 17, 2023, 3:35:38 PM10/17/23
to
On 10/17/2023 11:48 AM, candycanearter07 wrote:
> On 10/17/23 13:07, sms wrote:
>> <https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
>>
>> You can opt out by contacting T-Mobile. If you don't opt out then you
>> will be migrated to a higher cost plan if you are on an affected plan.
>
> How long did the call take?
I don't know since I don't have T-Mobile service.
> On 10/17/23 13:07, sms wrote:
>> <https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
>>
>> You can opt out by contacting T-Mobile. If you don't opt out then you
>> will be migrated to a higher cost plan if you are on an affected plan.
>
> How long did the call take?
The T-Mobile narrative is precious: "We are not raising the price of any
of our plans; we are moving you to a newer plan with more benefits at a
different cost."
>> By making the migration "opt-out" instead of "opt-in" millions of
>> customers will be upgraded to more expensive plans even though they
>> don't want to be.
>
> Taking advantage of people not realizing, classic.
price went up by 25% and I had to call them to get a credit. I finally
figured out what happened. What happened is that they are removing the
autopay discount if you use a credit card but this doesn't take effect
until, and if, you renew your contract. But I suspect that they have
hundreds of thousands of customers, that are under contract, that didn't
notice. I only noticed because they send out an e-mail every month with
the amount I am being charged and I noticed that it had gone up even
though the contract is not up until January 2024.
Wally J
Oct 17, 2023, 3:50:27 PM10/17/23
to
sms <scharf...@geemail.com> wrote
> <https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
>
> You can opt out by contacting T-Mobile. If you don't opt out then you
> will be migrated to a higher cost plan if you are on an affected plan.
>
> Note that the statement of "...consider a cheaper cell phone service
> provider that runs on the same network..." leaves out the key issue of
> domestic (and international) roaming. An MVNO like Mint or Tello has a
> lot less geographic coverage, both domestic and international, than
> T-Mobile or Metro.
>
> By making the migration "opt-out" instead of "opt-in" millions of
> customers will be upgraded to more expensive plans even though they
> don't want to be.
Wow. Good data Steve. Thank you for adding value to this newsgroup!
<https://i.postimg.cc/j2WMcwfY/tmobileoptout.jpg>
Thank you Steve for that information since many of us are on T-Mobile.
I dialed 611 "T-Mobile Care" from my cellphone to check the veracity.
You're completely right.
This is terrible for the people who don't know what you know.
Thanks again for informing us about this forced migration.
The short answer for people like badgolferman is to ask for this:
"T-Mobile Plan Migration Optout Feature"
Once they put _that_ on your plan, they will not be migrating you.
Now, for the gory details...
The call started right away with a short pre-recorded message saying that
you should receive a text or email message saying if they're migrating you.
Note I did not receive that message to my knowledge (at least not yet).
I opted for the callback which came back in one minute (why do they even
bother with a callback when it's that short - probably it's procedural).
Grace picked up the call and started telling me the spiel of "They're
moving grandfathered plans to a newer and better plan with more benefits"
when I told her to cut the crap and just explain the plans.
Grace told me I was on the "T-Mobile Simple Choice" autopay with an added
"Simple Global" free international roaming with unlimited data (since I
visit Germany a few times a year) for four lines plus two iPads for ~$100 +
about ~$20 in taxes and fees (the two iPads are 200GB/month free for life).
<https://i.postimg.cc/nhpbcP50/tmopromo04.jpg> (this is an old bill)
Simple Choice was upgraded after the Sprint merger to basically unlimited
everything in the USA but it does not have free Canada or Mexico calls.
Unlimited calls in the USA
Unlimited roaming in the USA (but not Canada or Mexico)
Unlimited texts & MMS in the USA
Essentially unlimited data (50GB/tower can be imposed)
5GB hotspot
The "Simple Global" feature had added
$0.25/minute calls while in Europe (both directions)
Unlimited International Roaming (while in Europe)
Unlimited SMS & MMS (while in Europe)
Essentially unlimited data (while in Europe)
No hotspot (while in Europe) <=== too bad as the iPads could use this
They say I would be migrated, (if I didn't opt out that is), to Magenta.
The "Magenta" autopay costs ~$160 + ~$32 tax (which is criminal, IMHO).
Unlimited calls in the USA
Unlimited roaming in the USA (plus Canada & Mexico Mobile w/o borders).
Unlimited texts & MMS in the USA
Essentially unlimited data (50GB/tower can be imposed)
5GB hotspot
Netflix (for the duration of the plan)
Apple TV+ (for 6 months)
AAA (for 12 months for ONE person) + concurrent travel benefits
*The end result is that the "newer & better plan" is a rip off.*
OLD PLAN:
~$120 (doesn't include Netflix or AAA or AppleTV or CN/ME calls)
NEW PLAN:
~$190 (adds Netflix & CN/ME calls and AAA/AppleTV for short time)
It's garbage.
1. My recommendation is to call them and compare the two plans.
2. If you want to opt out, tell them you want to add the feature called:
"Plan Migration Optout"
There will be no changes and no price increase if this feature is added.
A few minutes after the call (which took almost an hour to complete)
I received this text message which wasn't all that reassuring, but at least
I think Grace added that feature to my plan (I'll check 611 tomorrow).
FROM: 456
"Thank you for allowing me to assist you today!
Please rest assured that I addressed all the concerns you shared with me.
Thanks for being a part of T-Mobile, America's leader in 5G coverage.
Magraceangelic"
<https://i.postimg.cc/G2wVHjTT/optoutplanmigration.jpg>
Please keep us informed, Steve, of any new information you learn about it.
--
The whole point of Usenet is to find people who know more than you do.
And to contribute to the overall tribal knowledge value of the newsgroup.
> <https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
>
> You can opt out by contacting T-Mobile. If you don't opt out then you
> will be migrated to a higher cost plan if you are on an affected plan.
>
> Note that the statement of "...consider a cheaper cell phone service
> provider that runs on the same network..." leaves out the key issue of
> domestic (and international) roaming. An MVNO like Mint or Tello has a
> lot less geographic coverage, both domestic and international, than
> T-Mobile or Metro.
>
> By making the migration "opt-out" instead of "opt-in" millions of
> customers will be upgraded to more expensive plans even though they
> don't want to be.
<https://i.postimg.cc/j2WMcwfY/tmobileoptout.jpg>
Thank you Steve for that information since many of us are on T-Mobile.
I dialed 611 "T-Mobile Care" from my cellphone to check the veracity.
You're completely right.
This is terrible for the people who don't know what you know.
Thanks again for informing us about this forced migration.
The short answer for people like badgolferman is to ask for this:
"T-Mobile Plan Migration Optout Feature"
Once they put _that_ on your plan, they will not be migrating you.
Now, for the gory details...
The call started right away with a short pre-recorded message saying that
you should receive a text or email message saying if they're migrating you.
Note I did not receive that message to my knowledge (at least not yet).
I opted for the callback which came back in one minute (why do they even
bother with a callback when it's that short - probably it's procedural).
Grace picked up the call and started telling me the spiel of "They're
moving grandfathered plans to a newer and better plan with more benefits"
when I told her to cut the crap and just explain the plans.
Grace told me I was on the "T-Mobile Simple Choice" autopay with an added
"Simple Global" free international roaming with unlimited data (since I
visit Germany a few times a year) for four lines plus two iPads for ~$100 +
about ~$20 in taxes and fees (the two iPads are 200GB/month free for life).
<https://i.postimg.cc/nhpbcP50/tmopromo04.jpg> (this is an old bill)
Simple Choice was upgraded after the Sprint merger to basically unlimited
everything in the USA but it does not have free Canada or Mexico calls.
Unlimited calls in the USA
Unlimited roaming in the USA (but not Canada or Mexico)
Unlimited texts & MMS in the USA
Essentially unlimited data (50GB/tower can be imposed)
5GB hotspot
The "Simple Global" feature had added
$0.25/minute calls while in Europe (both directions)
Unlimited International Roaming (while in Europe)
Unlimited SMS & MMS (while in Europe)
Essentially unlimited data (while in Europe)
No hotspot (while in Europe) <=== too bad as the iPads could use this
They say I would be migrated, (if I didn't opt out that is), to Magenta.
The "Magenta" autopay costs ~$160 + ~$32 tax (which is criminal, IMHO).
Unlimited calls in the USA
Unlimited roaming in the USA (plus Canada & Mexico Mobile w/o borders).
Unlimited texts & MMS in the USA
Essentially unlimited data (50GB/tower can be imposed)
5GB hotspot
Netflix (for the duration of the plan)
Apple TV+ (for 6 months)
AAA (for 12 months for ONE person) + concurrent travel benefits
*The end result is that the "newer & better plan" is a rip off.*
OLD PLAN:
~$120 (doesn't include Netflix or AAA or AppleTV or CN/ME calls)
NEW PLAN:
~$190 (adds Netflix & CN/ME calls and AAA/AppleTV for short time)
It's garbage.
1. My recommendation is to call them and compare the two plans.
2. If you want to opt out, tell them you want to add the feature called:
"Plan Migration Optout"
There will be no changes and no price increase if this feature is added.
A few minutes after the call (which took almost an hour to complete)
I received this text message which wasn't all that reassuring, but at least
I think Grace added that feature to my plan (I'll check 611 tomorrow).
FROM: 456
"Thank you for allowing me to assist you today!
Please rest assured that I addressed all the concerns you shared with me.
Thanks for being a part of T-Mobile, America's leader in 5G coverage.
Magraceangelic"
<https://i.postimg.cc/G2wVHjTT/optoutplanmigration.jpg>
Please keep us informed, Steve, of any new information you learn about it.
--
The whole point of Usenet is to find people who know more than you do.
And to contribute to the overall tribal knowledge value of the newsgroup.
sms
Oct 17, 2023, 3:50:40 PM10/17/23
to
On 10/17/2023 11:48 AM, candycanearter07 wrote:
<snip>
> Taking advantage of people not realizing, classic.
more people are aware of it than would normally be expected. T-Mobile
initially had a way to opt out by going to your account page and
checking the opt out box but that was removed.
The good news is that you can still get free Crazy Bread at Little
Caesars every Tuesday.
candycanearter07
Oct 17, 2023, 3:54:14 PM10/17/23
to
On 10/17/23 14:35, sms wrote:
> The T-Mobile narrative is precious: "We are not raising the price of any
> of our plans; we are moving you to a newer plan with more benefits at a
> different cost."
Well, they did definitely provide it at a different cost.
> The T-Mobile narrative is precious: "We are not raising the price of any
> of our plans; we are moving you to a newer plan with more benefits at a
> different cost."
candycanearter07
Oct 17, 2023, 3:55:19 PM10/17/23
to
On 10/17/23 14:50, sms wrote:
> This "migration" has received extensive bad publicity so hopefully a lot
> more people are aware of it than would normally be expected. T-Mobile
> initially had a way to opt out by going to your account page and
> checking the opt out box but that was removed.
Hopefully!
> This "migration" has received extensive bad publicity so hopefully a lot
> more people are aware of it than would normally be expected. T-Mobile
> initially had a way to opt out by going to your account page and
> checking the opt out box but that was removed.
> The good news is that you can still get free Crazy Bread at Little
> Caesars every Tuesday.
Wally J
Oct 17, 2023, 3:56:26 PM10/17/23
to
sms <scharf...@geemail.com> wrote
>> I did not receive a message about a forced upgrade. I am on Magenta
>> Military plan which I switched to several months ago for no change in
>> price.
>
> That article states "At the time of writing, it┬ believed that
I called T-Mobile the instant I read Steve's rather helpful message.
It took three calls and about an hour to get it straightened out.
<https://i.postimg.cc/j2WMcwfY/tmobileoptout.jpg>
a. Like badgolferman, I did NOT receive a text or email from T-Mobile.
b. However... two different agents told me that didn't finish yet.
c. So badgolferman still "might" receive that text or email later.
My suggestion?
I suggest anyone on T-Mobile do what I did, described over here just now.
<https://groups.google.com/g/comp.mobile.android/c/oZIlpNti2rI/m/6PQfngYkCAAJ>
>> I did not receive a message about a forced upgrade. I am on Magenta
>> Military plan which I switched to several months ago for no change in
>> price.
>
> customers on variations of these plans will not be affected. For
> example, if you have the Magenta Military plan, you likely won┤ be
> affected by the forced plan migration."
>
> Looks like you are safe for now.
Maybe badgolferman is _not_ safe... not just yet anyway.
>
> Looks like you are safe for now.
I called T-Mobile the instant I read Steve's rather helpful message.
It took three calls and about an hour to get it straightened out.
<https://i.postimg.cc/j2WMcwfY/tmobileoptout.jpg>
a. Like badgolferman, I did NOT receive a text or email from T-Mobile.
b. However... two different agents told me that didn't finish yet.
c. So badgolferman still "might" receive that text or email later.
My suggestion?
I suggest anyone on T-Mobile do what I did, described over here just now.
<https://groups.google.com/g/comp.mobile.android/c/oZIlpNti2rI/m/6PQfngYkCAAJ>
candycanearter07
Oct 17, 2023, 3:58:26 PM10/17/23
to
On 10/17/23 14:50, Wally J wrote:
> OLD PLAN:
> ~$120 (doesn't include Netflix or AAA or AppleTV or CN/ME calls)
> NEW PLAN:
> ~$190 (adds Netflix & CN/ME calls and AAA/AppleTV for short time)
Bundling is the worst, especially for services I don't use (Netflix/AppleTV)
> OLD PLAN:
> ~$120 (doesn't include Netflix or AAA or AppleTV or CN/ME calls)
> NEW PLAN:
> ~$190 (adds Netflix & CN/ME calls and AAA/AppleTV for short time)
> It's garbage.
> 1. My recommendation is to call them and compare the two plans.
> 2. If you want to opt out, tell them you want to add the feature called:
> "Plan Migration Optout"
>
> There will be no changes and no price increase if this feature is added.
feature"?
Carlos E. R.
Oct 17, 2023, 4:04:27 PM10/17/23
to
On 2023-10-17 21:50, Wally J wrote:
> sms <scharf...@geemail.com> wrote
Why are you adding the alt.comp.os.windows-10 to what is solely a phone
related issue?
I don't see the word "Windows" in your post.
Please do not add unrelated groups to your posts.
...
--
Cheers,
Carlos E.R.
> sms <scharf...@geemail.com> wrote
Why are you adding the alt.comp.os.windows-10 to what is solely a phone
related issue?
I don't see the word "Windows" in your post.
Please do not add unrelated groups to your posts.
...
--
Cheers,
Carlos E.R.
Wally J
Oct 17, 2023, 4:06:02 PM10/17/23
to
sms <scharf...@geemail.com> wrote
> On 10/17/2023 11:48 AM, candycanearter07 wrote:
>> On 10/17/23 13:07, sms wrote:
>>> <https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
>>>
>>> You can opt out by contacting T-Mobile. If you don't opt out then you
>>> will be migrated to a higher cost plan if you are on an affected plan.
>>
>> How long did the call take?
>
> I don't know since I don't have T-Mobile service.
>
> The T-Mobile narrative is precious: "We are not raising the price of any
> of our plans; we are moving you to a newer plan with more benefits at a
> different cost."
>
>>> By making the migration "opt-out" instead of "opt-in" millions of
>>> customers will be upgraded to more expensive plans even though they
>>> don't want to be.
>>
>> Taking advantage of people not realizing, classic.
>
> Yeah, I ran into this recently with Xfinity. All of a sudden my monthly
> price went up by 25% and I had to call them to get a credit. I finally
> figured out what happened. What happened is that they are removing the
> autopay discount if you use a credit card but this doesn't take effect
> until, and if, you renew your contract. But I suspect that they have
> hundreds of thousands of customers, that are under contract, that didn't
> notice. I only noticed because they send out an e-mail every month with
> the amount I am being charged and I noticed that it had gone up even
> though the contract is not up until January 2024.
My call(s) took about an hour in toto but if you call them up and say only
one thing and one thing only, it should only take a few minutes to finish.
<https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
Tell them to add the feature called "Plan Migration Optout."
<https://i.postimg.cc/j2WMcwfY/tmobileoptout.jpg>
What takes time is if you try to COMPARE plans (old and new), especially if
you know all the nuances (as I think I do) which you have to know about to
ask for (e.g., they don't mention roaming charges unless you ask, and they
don't say whether it covers Canada or Mexico unless you ask, and they don't
cover the cost per call in Europe unless you ask and they don't tell you
the AAA membership is only for one person and even then only for one year,
and you have to know unlimited data means usually 50 GB of high speed data
per tower per month and then it never stops but can drop to lower speeds,
etc.).
All you need to know is about two years ago after the Sprint merger,
T-Mobile migrated just about everyone in the USA post-paid plans to
unlimited everything at no extra charge.
Which means this "new" plan that they say has "upgraded benefits" isn't
worth it for a price change (for four lines + two iPads) of $120/month
(including taxes) to about $190/month (also including taxes).
The only benefits, to me, would be that Canada & Mexico free roaming is
included in the new plan (but for $15 you can buy a one-time full data plan
when traveling there) and the Netflix is included, plus a year of AAA for
one person, plus six months of AppleTV (none of which do I want or need
and all of which costs more with T-Mobile than if you just bought it).
> On 10/17/2023 11:48 AM, candycanearter07 wrote:
>> On 10/17/23 13:07, sms wrote:
>>> <https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
>>>
>>> You can opt out by contacting T-Mobile. If you don't opt out then you
>>> will be migrated to a higher cost plan if you are on an affected plan.
>>
>> How long did the call take?
>
> I don't know since I don't have T-Mobile service.
>
> The T-Mobile narrative is precious: "We are not raising the price of any
> of our plans; we are moving you to a newer plan with more benefits at a
> different cost."
>
>>> By making the migration "opt-out" instead of "opt-in" millions of
>>> customers will be upgraded to more expensive plans even though they
>>> don't want to be.
>>
>> Taking advantage of people not realizing, classic.
>
> Yeah, I ran into this recently with Xfinity. All of a sudden my monthly
> price went up by 25% and I had to call them to get a credit. I finally
> figured out what happened. What happened is that they are removing the
> autopay discount if you use a credit card but this doesn't take effect
> until, and if, you renew your contract. But I suspect that they have
> hundreds of thousands of customers, that are under contract, that didn't
> notice. I only noticed because they send out an e-mail every month with
> the amount I am being charged and I noticed that it had gone up even
> though the contract is not up until January 2024.
one thing and one thing only, it should only take a few minutes to finish.
<https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
Tell them to add the feature called "Plan Migration Optout."
<https://i.postimg.cc/j2WMcwfY/tmobileoptout.jpg>
What takes time is if you try to COMPARE plans (old and new), especially if
you know all the nuances (as I think I do) which you have to know about to
ask for (e.g., they don't mention roaming charges unless you ask, and they
don't say whether it covers Canada or Mexico unless you ask, and they don't
cover the cost per call in Europe unless you ask and they don't tell you
the AAA membership is only for one person and even then only for one year,
and you have to know unlimited data means usually 50 GB of high speed data
per tower per month and then it never stops but can drop to lower speeds,
etc.).
All you need to know is about two years ago after the Sprint merger,
T-Mobile migrated just about everyone in the USA post-paid plans to
unlimited everything at no extra charge.
Which means this "new" plan that they say has "upgraded benefits" isn't
worth it for a price change (for four lines + two iPads) of $120/month
(including taxes) to about $190/month (also including taxes).
The only benefits, to me, would be that Canada & Mexico free roaming is
included in the new plan (but for $15 you can buy a one-time full data plan
when traveling there) and the Netflix is included, plus a year of AAA for
one person, plus six months of AppleTV (none of which do I want or need
and all of which costs more with T-Mobile than if you just bought it).
Wally J
Oct 17, 2023, 4:10:39 PM10/17/23
to
Alan Browne <bitb...@blackhole.com> wrote
> On 2023-10-17 14:07, sms wrote:
>> <https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
>>
>> You can opt out by contacting T-Mobile. If you don't opt out then you
>> will be migrated to a higher cost plan if you are on an affected plan.
>>
>> Note that the statement of "...consider a cheaper cell phone service
>> provider that runs on the same network..." leaves out the key issue of
>> domestic (and international) roaming. An MVNO like Mint or Tello has a
>> lot less geographic coverage, both domestic and international, than
>> T-Mobile or Metro.
>>
>> By making the migration "opt-out" instead of "opt-in" millions of
>> customers will be upgraded to more expensive plans even though they
>> don't want to be.
>
> This is where social media can come in handy.
> Spread the word and provide all the info on how to opt-out.
> Loudly and CC to local media.
I agree that social media can help spread the word as my plan would have
gone from $120/month (includes taxes) to about $190/month (with taxes).
<https://i.postimg.cc/nhpbcP50/tmopromo04.jpg> $100 for 6 lines (old bill)
The forced upgrade adds nothing to the plan other than Canada & Mexico
calling and Netflix and AAA for a year for 1 person & AppleTV for 1/2 year.
That's criminal considering there wasn't any change in my plan for that.
<https://i.postimg.cc/j2WMcwfY/tmobileoptout.jpg>
My advice is everyone on T-Mobile call 611 right now and tell them to put
this "feature" on your plan so that they won't "upgrade" you to Magenta.
"Plan Migration Optout"
> On 2023-10-17 14:07, sms wrote:
>> <https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
>>
>> You can opt out by contacting T-Mobile. If you don't opt out then you
>> will be migrated to a higher cost plan if you are on an affected plan.
>>
>> Note that the statement of "...consider a cheaper cell phone service
>> provider that runs on the same network..." leaves out the key issue of
>> domestic (and international) roaming. An MVNO like Mint or Tello has a
>> lot less geographic coverage, both domestic and international, than
>> T-Mobile or Metro.
>>
>> By making the migration "opt-out" instead of "opt-in" millions of
>> customers will be upgraded to more expensive plans even though they
>> don't want to be.
>
> This is where social media can come in handy.
> Spread the word and provide all the info on how to opt-out.
> Loudly and CC to local media.
gone from $120/month (includes taxes) to about $190/month (with taxes).
<https://i.postimg.cc/nhpbcP50/tmopromo04.jpg> $100 for 6 lines (old bill)
The forced upgrade adds nothing to the plan other than Canada & Mexico
calling and Netflix and AAA for a year for 1 person & AppleTV for 1/2 year.
That's criminal considering there wasn't any change in my plan for that.
<https://i.postimg.cc/j2WMcwfY/tmobileoptout.jpg>
My advice is everyone on T-Mobile call 611 right now and tell them to put
this "feature" on your plan so that they won't "upgrade" you to Magenta.
"Plan Migration Optout"
sms
Oct 17, 2023, 4:16:53 PM10/17/23
to
On 10/17/2023 1:04 PM, Carlos E. R. wrote:
> On 2023-10-17 21:50, Wally J wrote:
>> sms <scharf...@geemail.com> wrote
>
> Why are you adding the alt.comp.os.windows-10 to what is solely a phone
> related issue?
>
> I don't see the word "Windows" in your post.
>
> Please do not add unrelated groups to your posts.
It wasn't me, it was our favorite troll that added a group (removed for
> On 2023-10-17 21:50, Wally J wrote:
>> sms <scharf...@geemail.com> wrote
>
> Why are you adding the alt.comp.os.windows-10 to what is solely a phone
> related issue?
>
> I don't see the word "Windows" in your post.
>
> Please do not add unrelated groups to your posts.
this reply).
Wally J
Oct 17, 2023, 4:21:19 PM10/17/23
to
candycanearter07 <n...@thanks.net> wrote
> On 10/17/23 14:50, Wally J wrote:
>> OLD PLAN:
>> ~$120 (doesn't include Netflix or AAA or AppleTV or CN/ME calls)
>> NEW PLAN:
>> ~$190 (adds Netflix & CN/ME calls and AAA/AppleTV for short time)
>
> Bundling is the worst, especially for services I don't use (Netflix/AppleTV)
My wife shares Netflix with the kids who pay for it and give her the login
information so we don't need that - plus I always put the women in the
family on AAA (the boys have to learn how to change tires & fix engines!).
<https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
As I recall, AAA is ~$50 for one person per year but this plan costs an
extra $70 per month - which negates that possible benefit.
Besides, it's only for one year.
Likewise with the AppleTV (whatever that is) which is only 1/2 year.
If someone calls them up next, let us know if the Netflix is also limited
to one year as I don't remember if I explicitly clarified the time period.
<https://i.postimg.cc/j2WMcwfY/tmobileoptout.jpg> Summary of the plans
On their migrated plan, I would have gone from ~$120/month to ~$190/month.
<https://i.postimg.cc/YC1B906F/tmopromo01.jpg> A32-5G & iPhone 12 contract
<https://i.postimg.cc/Xq5SpS4D/tmopromo02.jpg> $15/mo iPhone,$0/mo Android
<https://i.postimg.cc/nhpbcP50/tmopromo04.jpg> $100 for 6 lines + $16 fees
>> It's garbage.
>> 1. My recommendation is to call them and compare the two plans.
>> 2. If you want to opt out, tell them you want to add the feature called:
>> "Plan Migration Optout"
>>
>> There will be no changes and no price increase if this feature is added.
>
> So, do they ignore your request if you don't phrase it as "adding the
> feature"?
I don't fully understand your question but I'll answer it this way.
a. If you do NOT receive an email or text, you're safe... but...
b. What if you _missed_ that email or text (or if they don't send it) so...
c. My recommendation is to call them and tell them you want to opt out.
I don't think it matters how you tell them to opt you out.
I just happened to be documented it, and it's call "Plan Migration Optout."
BTW, Grace used the words "on us" for the Netflix and AppleTV and AAA.
But I told her curtly to cut the crap - there was silence for a moment.
If I'm paying for a bill - it's not "on us" but "on me", is it not.
> On 10/17/23 14:50, Wally J wrote:
>> OLD PLAN:
>> ~$120 (doesn't include Netflix or AAA or AppleTV or CN/ME calls)
>> NEW PLAN:
>> ~$190 (adds Netflix & CN/ME calls and AAA/AppleTV for short time)
>
> Bundling is the worst, especially for services I don't use (Netflix/AppleTV)
information so we don't need that - plus I always put the women in the
family on AAA (the boys have to learn how to change tires & fix engines!).
<https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
As I recall, AAA is ~$50 for one person per year but this plan costs an
extra $70 per month - which negates that possible benefit.
Besides, it's only for one year.
Likewise with the AppleTV (whatever that is) which is only 1/2 year.
If someone calls them up next, let us know if the Netflix is also limited
to one year as I don't remember if I explicitly clarified the time period.
<https://i.postimg.cc/j2WMcwfY/tmobileoptout.jpg> Summary of the plans
On their migrated plan, I would have gone from ~$120/month to ~$190/month.
<https://i.postimg.cc/YC1B906F/tmopromo01.jpg> A32-5G & iPhone 12 contract
<https://i.postimg.cc/Xq5SpS4D/tmopromo02.jpg> $15/mo iPhone,$0/mo Android
<https://i.postimg.cc/nhpbcP50/tmopromo04.jpg> $100 for 6 lines + $16 fees
>> It's garbage.
>> 1. My recommendation is to call them and compare the two plans.
>> 2. If you want to opt out, tell them you want to add the feature called:
>> "Plan Migration Optout"
>>
>> There will be no changes and no price increase if this feature is added.
>
> So, do they ignore your request if you don't phrase it as "adding the
> feature"?
a. If you do NOT receive an email or text, you're safe... but...
b. What if you _missed_ that email or text (or if they don't send it) so...
c. My recommendation is to call them and tell them you want to opt out.
I don't think it matters how you tell them to opt you out.
I just happened to be documented it, and it's call "Plan Migration Optout."
BTW, Grace used the words "on us" for the Netflix and AppleTV and AAA.
But I told her curtly to cut the crap - there was silence for a moment.
If I'm paying for a bill - it's not "on us" but "on me", is it not.
Wally J
Oct 17, 2023, 4:32:55 PM10/17/23
to
"Carlos E. R." <robin_...@es.invalid> wrote
> On 2023-10-17 21:50, Wally J wrote:
>> sms <scharf...@geemail.com> wrote
>
> Why are you adding the alt.comp.os.windows-10 to what is solely a phone
> related issue?
>
> I don't see the word "Windows" in your post.
>
> Please do not add unrelated groups to your posts.
Removed.
> On 2023-10-17 21:50, Wally J wrote:
>> sms <scharf...@geemail.com> wrote
>
> Why are you adding the alt.comp.os.windows-10 to what is solely a phone
> related issue?
>
> I don't see the word "Windows" in your post.
>
> Please do not add unrelated groups to your posts.
candycanearter07
Oct 17, 2023, 5:11:32 PM10/17/23
to
On 10/17/23 15:21, Wally J wrote:
> candycanearter07 <n...@thanks.net> wrote
the feature "Plan Migration Optout".
> candycanearter07 <n...@thanks.net> wrote
>> So, do they ignore your request if you don't phrase it as "adding the
>> feature"?
>
> I don't fully understand your question but I'll answer it this way.
I'm saying if you just asked to "not migrate". If you didn't say "add
>> feature"?
>
> I don't fully understand your question but I'll answer it this way.
the feature "Plan Migration Optout".
Wally J
Oct 17, 2023, 5:17:47 PM10/17/23
to
candycanearter07 <n...@thanks.net> wrote
> On 10/17/23 15:21, Wally J wrote:
>> candycanearter07 <n...@thanks.net> wrote
>>> So, do they ignore your request if you don't phrase it as "adding the
>>> feature"?
>>
>> I don't fully understand your question but I'll answer it this way.
>
> I'm saying if you just asked to "not migrate". If you didn't say "add
> the feature "Plan Migration Optout".
I'm sure TMobile doesn't need the exact keywords for you to opt out.
<https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
Here's what I recommend people do immediately, before they're opted in.
a. They call 611 from their phone
b. They ask if they're being migrated
c. If the answer is yes, then they ask to compare the old & new plans
<https://i.postimg.cc/L6dFGXVd/tmopromo03.jpg> $100 6 lines + $25 fees
If they don't like the new plan, then they tell tmo to 'fugetaboutit!
<https://i.postimg.cc/j2WMcwfY/tmobileoptout.jpg>
--
f'up removes the Windows newsgroup.
> On 10/17/23 15:21, Wally J wrote:
>> candycanearter07 <n...@thanks.net> wrote
>>> So, do they ignore your request if you don't phrase it as "adding the
>>> feature"?
>>
>> I don't fully understand your question but I'll answer it this way.
>
> I'm saying if you just asked to "not migrate". If you didn't say "add
> the feature "Plan Migration Optout".
<https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
Here's what I recommend people do immediately, before they're opted in.
a. They call 611 from their phone
b. They ask if they're being migrated
c. If the answer is yes, then they ask to compare the old & new plans
<https://i.postimg.cc/L6dFGXVd/tmopromo03.jpg> $100 6 lines + $25 fees
If they don't like the new plan, then they tell tmo to 'fugetaboutit!
<https://i.postimg.cc/j2WMcwfY/tmobileoptout.jpg>
--
f'up removes the Windows newsgroup.
Alan Browne
Oct 17, 2023, 5:37:17 PM10/17/23
to
On 2023-10-17 16:04, Carlos E. R. wrote:
> On 2023-10-17 21:50, Wally J wrote:
>> sms <scharf...@geemail.com> wrote
>
> Why are you adding the alt.comp.os.windows-10 to what is solely a phone
> related issue?
>
> I don't see the word "Windows" in your post.
>
> Please do not add unrelated groups to your posts.
+1
> On 2023-10-17 21:50, Wally J wrote:
>> sms <scharf...@geemail.com> wrote
>
> Why are you adding the alt.comp.os.windows-10 to what is solely a phone
> related issue?
>
> I don't see the word "Windows" in your post.
>
> Please do not add unrelated groups to your posts.
Alan Browne
Oct 17, 2023, 5:38:20 PM10/17/23
to
On 2023-10-17 17:11, candycanearter07 wrote:
> On 10/17/23 15:21, Wally J wrote:
>> candycanearter07 <n...@thanks.net> wrote
>>> So, do they ignore your request if you don't phrase it as "adding the
>>> feature"?
>>
>> I don't fully understand your question but I'll answer it this way.
>
> I'm saying if you just asked to "not migrate". If you didn't say "add
> the feature "Plan Migration Optout".
Stop falling into the troll trap : take the windows group out of your
> On 10/17/23 15:21, Wally J wrote:
>> candycanearter07 <n...@thanks.net> wrote
>>> So, do they ignore your request if you don't phrase it as "adding the
>>> feature"?
>>
>> I don't fully understand your question but I'll answer it this way.
>
> I'm saying if you just asked to "not migrate". If you didn't say "add
> the feature "Plan Migration Optout".
replies.
badgolferman
Oct 17, 2023, 5:39:13 PM10/17/23
to
advantage of ignorant people.
badgolferman
Oct 17, 2023, 6:05:23 PM10/17/23
to
Wally J wrote:
>My advice is everyone on T-Mobile call 611 right now and tell them to
>put this "feature" on your plan so that they won't "upgrade" you to
>Magenta. "Plan Migration Optout"
I logged on to my account and didn't see a way to opt out so I called
>My advice is everyone on T-Mobile call 611 right now and tell them to
>put this "feature" on your plan so that they won't "upgrade" you to
>Magenta. "Plan Migration Optout"
them. They insisted Magenta Military will not be changed -- ever. I
questioned the "ever" claim but they persisted. I still wanted to opt
out for future forced changes but they said it can't be done.
Nothing more I can do.
--
"Things are more like they are now than they have ever been." ~
President Gerald Ford
Wally J
Oct 17, 2023, 6:08:11 PM10/17/23
to
badgolferman <REMOVETHISb...@gmail.com> wrote
>> Taking advantage of people not realizing, classic.
>
> The article said affected people were notified. Theye not taking
> advantage of ignorant people.
Your plan is unaffected according to the original link, which says
"...if you have the Magenta Military plan, you likely won't be
Simple Choice or Select Choice => Essentials Select or Magenta
Magenta => Go5G
Magenta 55+ => Go5G 55+
ONE => Go5G
Simple Choice Business => Business Unlimited Advanced
<https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
>> Taking advantage of people not realizing, classic.
>
> advantage of ignorant people.
Your plan is unaffected according to the original link, which says
"...if you have the Magenta Military plan, you likely won't be
affected by the forced plan migration. "
This is the transition chart.
Simple Choice or Select Choice => Essentials Select or Magenta
Magenta => Go5G
Magenta 55+ => Go5G 55+
ONE => Go5G
Simple Choice Business => Business Unlimited Advanced
<https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
Wally J
Oct 17, 2023, 7:04:37 PM10/17/23
to
badgolferman <REMOVETHISb...@gmail.com> wrote
> I logged on to my account and didn't see a way to opt out so I called
> them. They insisted Magenta Military will not be changed -- ever. I
> questioned the "ever" claim but they persisted. I still wanted to opt
> out for future forced changes but they said it can't be done.
>
> Nothing more I can do.
Hi badgolferman,
Thanks for that data where my situation was different in that they said
they added the option to my plan called "Plan Migration Optout."
Mine would have migrated from $120/month for four phones unlimited
everything, to $190/month for almost the same limited everything.
Oh, and I get "AppleTV" for six months - whatever the heck that is.
However...
Your plan is specifically singled out in Steve's original reference as
being safe from this - while mine isn't listed at all in the chart.
As is often the case, the situation varies with the situation.
But I do thank Steve for cluing us in on this forced migration for many.
<https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
Interestingly, both Steve & badgolferman are charter a.h.r ng members.
--
f'up removed a.h.r (even as steve & badgolferman are charter a.h.r members).
> I logged on to my account and didn't see a way to opt out so I called
> them. They insisted Magenta Military will not be changed -- ever. I
> questioned the "ever" claim but they persisted. I still wanted to opt
> out for future forced changes but they said it can't be done.
>
> Nothing more I can do.
Thanks for that data where my situation was different in that they said
they added the option to my plan called "Plan Migration Optout."
Mine would have migrated from $120/month for four phones unlimited
everything, to $190/month for almost the same limited everything.
Oh, and I get "AppleTV" for six months - whatever the heck that is.
However...
Your plan is specifically singled out in Steve's original reference as
being safe from this - while mine isn't listed at all in the chart.
As is often the case, the situation varies with the situation.
But I do thank Steve for cluing us in on this forced migration for many.
<https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
Interestingly, both Steve & badgolferman are charter a.h.r ng members.
--
f'up removed a.h.r (even as steve & badgolferman are charter a.h.r members).
candycanearter07
Oct 17, 2023, 7:07:36 PM10/17/23
to
On 10/17/23 16:17, Wally J wrote:
> candycanearter07 <n...@thanks.net> wrote
>
>> On 10/17/23 15:21, Wally J wrote:
>>> candycanearter07 <n...@thanks.net> wrote
>>>> So, do they ignore your request if you don't phrase it as "adding the
>>>> feature"?
>>>
>>> I don't fully understand your question but I'll answer it this way.
>>
>> I'm saying if you just asked to "not migrate". If you didn't say "add
>> the feature "Plan Migration Optout".
>
> I'm sure TMobile doesn't need the exact keywords for you to opt out.
> <https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
I would not put it past them.
> candycanearter07 <n...@thanks.net> wrote
>
>> On 10/17/23 15:21, Wally J wrote:
>>> candycanearter07 <n...@thanks.net> wrote
>>>> So, do they ignore your request if you don't phrase it as "adding the
>>>> feature"?
>>>
>>> I don't fully understand your question but I'll answer it this way.
>>
>> I'm saying if you just asked to "not migrate". If you didn't say "add
>> the feature "Plan Migration Optout".
>
> I'm sure TMobile doesn't need the exact keywords for you to opt out.
> <https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
Alan
Oct 17, 2023, 8:26:02 PM10/17/23
to
On 2023-10-17 12:50, Wally J wrote:
> sms <scharf...@geemail.com> wrote
>
>> <https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
>>
>> You can opt out by contacting T-Mobile. If you don't opt out then you
>> will be migrated to a higher cost plan if you are on an affected plan.
>>
>> Note that the statement of "...consider a cheaper cell phone service
>> provider that runs on the same network..." leaves out the key issue of
>> domestic (and international) roaming. An MVNO like Mint or Tello has a
>> lot less geographic coverage, both domestic and international, than
>> T-Mobile or Metro.
>>
>> By making the migration "opt-out" instead of "opt-in" millions of
>> customers will be upgraded to more expensive plans even though they
>> don't want to be.
>
> Wow. Good data Steve. Thank you for adding value to this newsgroup!
Dude... ...you are NOT a hall monitor.
> sms <scharf...@geemail.com> wrote
>
>> <https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
>>
>> You can opt out by contacting T-Mobile. If you don't opt out then you
>> will be migrated to a higher cost plan if you are on an affected plan.
>>
>> Note that the statement of "...consider a cheaper cell phone service
>> provider that runs on the same network..." leaves out the key issue of
>> domestic (and international) roaming. An MVNO like Mint or Tello has a
>> lot less geographic coverage, both domestic and international, than
>> T-Mobile or Metro.
>>
>> By making the migration "opt-out" instead of "opt-in" millions of
>> customers will be upgraded to more expensive plans even though they
>> don't want to be.
>
> Wow. Good data Steve. Thank you for adding value to this newsgroup!
Alan
Oct 17, 2023, 8:29:42 PM10/17/23
to
On 2023-10-17 13:21, Wally J wrote:
> candycanearter07 <n...@thanks.net> wrote
>
>> On 10/17/23 14:50, Wally J wrote:
>>> OLD PLAN:
>>> ~$120 (doesn't include Netflix or AAA or AppleTV or CN/ME calls)
>>> NEW PLAN:
>>> ~$190 (adds Netflix & CN/ME calls and AAA/AppleTV for short time)
>>
>> Bundling is the worst, especially for services I don't use (Netflix/AppleTV)
>
> My wife shares Netflix with the kids who pay for it and give her the login
> information so we don't need that - plus I always put the women in the
> family on AAA (the boys have to learn how to change tires & fix engines!).
> <https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
So you advocate theft and male chauvinism...
> candycanearter07 <n...@thanks.net> wrote
>
>> On 10/17/23 14:50, Wally J wrote:
>>> OLD PLAN:
>>> ~$120 (doesn't include Netflix or AAA or AppleTV or CN/ME calls)
>>> NEW PLAN:
>>> ~$190 (adds Netflix & CN/ME calls and AAA/AppleTV for short time)
>>
>> Bundling is the worst, especially for services I don't use (Netflix/AppleTV)
>
> My wife shares Netflix with the kids who pay for it and give her the login
> information so we don't need that - plus I always put the women in the
> family on AAA (the boys have to learn how to change tires & fix engines!).
> <https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
sms
Oct 17, 2023, 8:52:29 PM10/17/23
to
On 10/17/2023 2:39 PM, badgolferman wrote:
<snip>
> The article said affected people were notified. They’re not taking
> advantage of ignorant people.
Apparently, the notification consists of sending the person an SMS or an
e-mail.
If they really wanted to not take advantage of people then they would
make the plan change an "opt-in." But that would result in very few
subscribers moving to a more expensive plan so that's not what they are
doing.
The goal is to increase ARPU by taking advantage of people's belief that
if they do nothing then they won't be moved to a more expensive plan.
Remember, T-Mobile made a big deal about their "Price Lock Guarantee."
They should be sending out a real letter, with the outside of the
envelope having the text "Do Not Discard. Your T-Mobile Plan Will Change
to a More Expensive Plan if You do Not Explicitly Opt Out."
This just screams "Class Action Lawsuit" because of T-Mobile's earlier
"Price Lock Guarantee." You can just see them in court: "Your honor, we
did not increase the price of anyone's plan, we simply moved them to a
more expensive plan after they didn't tell us not to do this." I imagine
that the class action attorneys already preparing their television ads
to go along with the Camp Lejune and mesothelioma ads.
T-Mobile is not alone in these sleazy tactics. All three carriers
advertised rates that included an auto-pay discount and then changed how
customers can do auto-pay and still get that discount. Verizon did this
first, then T-Mobile, and finally AT&T followed suit on October 2nd, 2023.
<snip>
> The article said affected people were notified. They’re not taking
> advantage of ignorant people.
e-mail.
If they really wanted to not take advantage of people then they would
make the plan change an "opt-in." But that would result in very few
subscribers moving to a more expensive plan so that's not what they are
doing.
The goal is to increase ARPU by taking advantage of people's belief that
if they do nothing then they won't be moved to a more expensive plan.
Remember, T-Mobile made a big deal about their "Price Lock Guarantee."
They should be sending out a real letter, with the outside of the
envelope having the text "Do Not Discard. Your T-Mobile Plan Will Change
to a More Expensive Plan if You do Not Explicitly Opt Out."
This just screams "Class Action Lawsuit" because of T-Mobile's earlier
"Price Lock Guarantee." You can just see them in court: "Your honor, we
did not increase the price of anyone's plan, we simply moved them to a
more expensive plan after they didn't tell us not to do this." I imagine
that the class action attorneys already preparing their television ads
to go along with the Camp Lejune and mesothelioma ads.
T-Mobile is not alone in these sleazy tactics. All three carriers
advertised rates that included an auto-pay discount and then changed how
customers can do auto-pay and still get that discount. Verizon did this
first, then T-Mobile, and finally AT&T followed suit on October 2nd, 2023.
Wally J
Oct 17, 2023, 10:52:51 PM10/17/23
to
sms <scharf...@geemail.com> wrote
> T-Mobile is not alone in these sleazy tactics.
I will agree with anyone who has good data and decent assessments.
In this case, I fully agree with Steve that T-Mobile appears to be pulling
a fast one on us, as he correctly notes the opt out tactic is intended to
catch people who don't know any better (or who don't act quickly enough).
Grace, (apparently on my T-Mobile "personal team of experts") started her
spiel with me by saying T-mobile was "moving grandfathered plans to a newer
and better plan with more benefits"...
When I told her to cut the crap and just explain the plans, there was a
moment of silence from her, and I had to ask "are you still there?".
Point is that the new plan is 70 bucks per month more than my old plan,
where the only permanent "benefits" were Netflix and free calls in Canada
and Mexico.
The temporary benefits were Apple TV (what the heck is that?) for six
months & AAA for 1 person for 1 year (which normally costs ~$50 per year).
I'm not sure how much Netflix is as my wife uses my daughter's account.
Most of the Apple people probably know all about Apple TV so maybe they can
tell me if that's a big deal or not.
How much is AppleTV worth anyway for six months?
> T-Mobile is not alone in these sleazy tactics.
In this case, I fully agree with Steve that T-Mobile appears to be pulling
a fast one on us, as he correctly notes the opt out tactic is intended to
catch people who don't know any better (or who don't act quickly enough).
Grace, (apparently on my T-Mobile "personal team of experts") started her
spiel with me by saying T-mobile was "moving grandfathered plans to a newer
and better plan with more benefits"...
When I told her to cut the crap and just explain the plans, there was a
moment of silence from her, and I had to ask "are you still there?".
Point is that the new plan is 70 bucks per month more than my old plan,
where the only permanent "benefits" were Netflix and free calls in Canada
and Mexico.
The temporary benefits were Apple TV (what the heck is that?) for six
months & AAA for 1 person for 1 year (which normally costs ~$50 per year).
I'm not sure how much Netflix is as my wife uses my daughter's account.
Most of the Apple people probably know all about Apple TV so maybe they can
tell me if that's a big deal or not.
How much is AppleTV worth anyway for six months?
candycanearter07
Oct 18, 2023, 8:21:28 AM10/18/23
to
On 10/17/23 19:52, sms wrote:
> This just screams "Class Action Lawsuit" because of T-Mobile's earlier
> "Price Lock Guarantee." You can just see them in court: "Your honor, we
> did not increase the price of anyone's plan, we simply moved them to a
> more expensive plan after they didn't tell us not to do this." I imagine
> that the class action attorneys already preparing their television ads
> to go along with the Camp Lejune and mesothelioma ads.
You're not thinking creative enough.
> This just screams "Class Action Lawsuit" because of T-Mobile's earlier
> "Price Lock Guarantee." You can just see them in court: "Your honor, we
> did not increase the price of anyone's plan, we simply moved them to a
> more expensive plan after they didn't tell us not to do this." I imagine
> that the class action attorneys already preparing their television ads
> to go along with the Camp Lejune and mesothelioma ads.
"Your honor, the value offered by the new plan is equivalent to that of
the old plan, factoring in the value of the additional perks. Therefore,
the price of their plans was never changed, merely new perks were
bundled with it."
Ken Blake
Oct 18, 2023, 10:08:40 AM10/18/23
to
On Tue, 17 Oct 2023 11:07:34 -0700, sms <scharf...@geemail.com>
wrote:
>Note that the statement of "...consider a cheaper cell phone service
>provider that runs on the same network..." leaves out the key issue of
>domestic (and international) roaming. An MVNO like Mint or Tello has a
>lot less geographic coverage, both domestic and international, than
>T-Mobile or Metro.
I don't know anything about international coverage, but regarding
Mint's (I use Mint) domestic coverage, how can it be a lot less than
T-Mobile's since it uses T-Mobile's network?
wrote:
>Note that the statement of "...consider a cheaper cell phone service
>provider that runs on the same network..." leaves out the key issue of
>domestic (and international) roaming. An MVNO like Mint or Tello has a
>lot less geographic coverage, both domestic and international, than
>T-Mobile or Metro.
Mint's (I use Mint) domestic coverage, how can it be a lot less than
T-Mobile's since it uses T-Mobile's network?
sms
Oct 18, 2023, 2:33:17 PM10/18/23
to
On 10/18/2023 7:04 AM, Ken Blake wrote:
<snip>
> I don't know anything about international coverage, but regarding
> Mint's (I use Mint) domestic coverage, how can it be a lot less than
> T-Mobile's since it uses T-Mobile's network?
T-Mobile provides a lot of domestic roaming. Their MVNOs, other than
Google-Fi do not. With Mint, Tello, Hello, etc., you get no coverage at
all in places Alaska, as well as no coverage in many of the more rural
areas of the western U.S..
The T-Mobile domestic roaming includes very little data, 200MB per
billing cycle, but at least you get unlimited SMS and voice. Data
roaming costs T-Mobile a lot of money so they have to limit it.
Google-Fi doesn't have that domestic roaming data limit, they charge for
data on their by the GB plans of course, but on their unlimited plans
there is no extra charge.
But if you never travel to the areas where T-Mobile doesn't have a
native network then you would not notice any difference.
Also, interestingly enough, Metro provides the same off-network roaming
as T-Mobile postpaid, while Verizon's Visible service (and all the
Tracfone brands), and AT&T's Cricket service, provide very little
off-network roaming. But since the Verizon and AT&T domestic network is
much larger the need for that roaming is less.
<snip>
> I don't know anything about international coverage, but regarding
> Mint's (I use Mint) domestic coverage, how can it be a lot less than
> T-Mobile's since it uses T-Mobile's network?
Google-Fi do not. With Mint, Tello, Hello, etc., you get no coverage at
all in places Alaska, as well as no coverage in many of the more rural
areas of the western U.S..
The T-Mobile domestic roaming includes very little data, 200MB per
billing cycle, but at least you get unlimited SMS and voice. Data
roaming costs T-Mobile a lot of money so they have to limit it.
Google-Fi doesn't have that domestic roaming data limit, they charge for
data on their by the GB plans of course, but on their unlimited plans
there is no extra charge.
But if you never travel to the areas where T-Mobile doesn't have a
native network then you would not notice any difference.
Also, interestingly enough, Metro provides the same off-network roaming
as T-Mobile postpaid, while Verizon's Visible service (and all the
Tracfone brands), and AT&T's Cricket service, provide very little
off-network roaming. But since the Verizon and AT&T domestic network is
much larger the need for that roaming is less.
Patrick
Oct 18, 2023, 4:22:44 PM10/18/23
to
On Wed, 18 Oct 2023 11:33:09 -0700, sms wrote:
>> I don't know anything about international coverage, but regarding
>> Mint's (I use Mint) domestic coverage, how can it be a lot less than
>> T-Mobile's since it uses T-Mobile's network?
>
> T-Mobile provides a lot of domestic roaming.
Aren't you on record for often saying T-Mobile roaming is very few towers?
>> I don't know anything about international coverage, but regarding
>> Mint's (I use Mint) domestic coverage, how can it be a lot less than
>> T-Mobile's since it uses T-Mobile's network?
>
> T-Mobile provides a lot of domestic roaming.
sms
Oct 18, 2023, 4:43:20 PM10/18/23
to
The issue is that if T-Mobile has a network presence in an area then
they don't allow roaming even in spots with no coverage. That is the
issue in the San Francisco Bay Area. If you're on T-Mobile then you
can't roam onto AT&T or Verizon (other than 911 calls) even though
T-Mobile lacks any coverage in many of the less populated areas.
For example, here is the San Mateo/Santa Cruz County coast
<https://i.imgur.com/QOqnAVP.png>. On AT&T and T-Mobile coverage is much
poorer than on Verizon. Some people say, "well almost no one lives
there" and that's true. But it's a very popular area to visit and drive
through.
We often stay at the Yosemite West development just outside the Yosemite
park boundary (you have to get there from inside the park), see
<https://i.imgur.com/9zJhPUq.png>. Being on Verizon was really helpful
when we arrived, in a snowstorm, and they hadn't left the key for our
condo rental. If we had been on AT&T or T-Mobile it would have been a
long drive to find a pay phone. This is an area of California that was
covered by Golden State Cellular which was purchased by Verizon.
Ken Blake
Oct 19, 2023, 10:49:53 AM10/19/23
to
On Wed, 18 Oct 2023 11:33:09 -0700, sms <scharf...@geemail.com>
wrote:
>On 10/18/2023 7:04 AM, Ken Blake wrote:
>
><snip>
>
>> I don't know anything about international coverage, but regarding
>> Mint's (I use Mint) domestic coverage, how can it be a lot less than
>> T-Mobile's since it uses T-Mobile's network?
>
>T-Mobile provides a lot of domestic roaming. Their MVNOs, other than
>Google-Fi do not. With Mint, Tello, Hello, etc., you get no coverage at
>all in places Alaska, as well as no coverage in many of the more rural
>areas of the western U.S..
>
>The T-Mobile domestic roaming includes very little data, 200MB per
>billing cycle, but at least you get unlimited SMS and voice. Data
>roaming costs T-Mobile a lot of money so they have to limit it.
>Google-Fi doesn't have that domestic roaming data limit, they charge for
>data on their by the GB plans of course, but on their unlimited plans
>there is no extra charge.
>
>But if you never travel to the areas where T-Mobile doesn't have a
>native network then you would not notice any difference.
OK, thanks. I never travel at all, anymore.
wrote:
>On 10/18/2023 7:04 AM, Ken Blake wrote:
>
><snip>
>
>> I don't know anything about international coverage, but regarding
>> Mint's (I use Mint) domestic coverage, how can it be a lot less than
>> T-Mobile's since it uses T-Mobile's network?
>
>T-Mobile provides a lot of domestic roaming. Their MVNOs, other than
>Google-Fi do not. With Mint, Tello, Hello, etc., you get no coverage at
>all in places Alaska, as well as no coverage in many of the more rural
>areas of the western U.S..
>
>The T-Mobile domestic roaming includes very little data, 200MB per
>billing cycle, but at least you get unlimited SMS and voice. Data
>roaming costs T-Mobile a lot of money so they have to limit it.
>Google-Fi doesn't have that domestic roaming data limit, they charge for
>data on their by the GB plans of course, but on their unlimited plans
>there is no extra charge.
>
>But if you never travel to the areas where T-Mobile doesn't have a
>native network then you would not notice any difference.
Patrick
Oct 19, 2023, 12:43:23 PM10/19/23
to
On Wed, 18 Oct 2023 13:43:16 -0700, sms wrote:
>>> T-Mobile provides a lot of domestic roaming.
>>
>> Aren't you on record for often saying T-Mobile roaming is very few towers?
>
> No.
>
> The issue is that if T-Mobile has a network presence in an area then
> they don't allow roaming even in spots with no coverage. That is the
> issue in the San Francisco Bay Area. If you're on T-Mobile then you
> can't roam onto AT&T or Verizon (other than 911 calls) even though
> T-Mobile lacks any coverage in many of the less populated areas.
>>> T-Mobile provides a lot of domestic roaming.
>>
>> Aren't you on record for often saying T-Mobile roaming is very few towers?
>
> No.
>
> The issue is that if T-Mobile has a network presence in an area then
> they don't allow roaming even in spots with no coverage. That is the
> issue in the San Francisco Bay Area. If you're on T-Mobile then you
> can't roam onto AT&T or Verizon (other than 911 calls) even though
> T-Mobile lacks any coverage in many of the less populated areas.
Freddy1X
Oct 19, 2023, 4:23:21 PM10/19/23
to
sms wrote:
> <https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
>
> You can opt out by contacting T-Mobile. If you don't opt out then you
> will be migrated to a higher cost plan if you are on an affected plan.
( cuts )
> <https://clark.com/cell-phones/t-mobile-forced-plan-migration/>
>
> You can opt out by contacting T-Mobile. If you don't opt out then you
> will be migrated to a higher cost plan if you are on an affected plan.
> By making the migration "opt-out" instead of "opt-in" millions of
> customers will be upgraded to more expensive plans even though they
> don't want to be.
>
This is how T-Mobile pays for all of the free access to your data that they
> customers will be upgraded to more expensive plans even though they
> don't want to be.
>
are giving away to hackers.
--
Example only.
/|>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>\|
/| I may be demented \|
/| but I'm not crazy! \|
/|<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<\|
* SPAyM trap: there is no X in my address *
Wally J
Oct 19, 2023, 10:30:55 PM10/19/23
to
micky <NONONO...@fmguy.com> wrote
>>Or you could just move to Mint Mobile, a Tmobile MVNO. That's what I did
>>6 years ago. I pay $25/mth for the 20gb plan, that's the rate when you pay for
>>a year at a time. Right now they have a promo going on, any plan for $15/mth
>>for the first 3 months. So you can get the 40gb plan for that, after it's $30/mth
>>if you pay for a year, $35 is you pay for 6 months, $40 if you pay for 3 months.
>>Works great for me.
>
> I pay Mint $20/moth for 15 gigs. (It used to be less data for the same
> price, but they raised it a year or two ago. for everyone.)
I'd love to pay $20/phone for unlimited everything (where I would consider
15GB of data unlimited for me given I probably use kilobytes per month).
I'm glad people use the MVNOs because I'd love to get a better price than
what I'm paying - which - is the following $100 for 4 (plus 2) SIM cards.
<https://i.postimg.cc/L6dFGXVd/tmopromo03.jpg> $100 for 6 lines + $16 fees
The bill has gone up by ~4 bucks since then due to the taxation/fee system.
> I assume Wally means, by 4 phones, four lines.
> Not one line with 3 extensions, LOL
Many years ago T-Mobile offered free SIM cards for life so two of my six
lines are for the iPads - but then I have four lines for $100/month + fees.
<https://i.postimg.cc/nhpbcP50/tmopromo04.jpg> Simple Choice Plan Costs
A couple of years ago T-Mobile offered free Android phones and half price
iPhones (with tradein) so I also took advantage of that as shown below.
> And Mint which afaik is among the cheapest for one
> line doens't seem to give a discount for more than one. So if I had 4
> lines, I'd be paying the same as Wally but each would only have 15
> gigs. And wally's are all unlimited!!!
We have to be careful about the true meaning of "unlimited", as Steve
Scharf would point out - which is that it's unlimited high speed data
unless the tower you're connecting too is considered "congested", and in
that case, then it's only 50 GB of high speed data on _that_ tower.
In practice, of course, unless you're a college kid, it's unlimited.
> So he has a bettr rate with Tmobile than I would have with Mint.
If I could get a better deal with the MVNO's, just let me know as I'm fine
with T-Mobile, AT&T & Verizon as I've had them all at one time or another.
> Didn't I get that right?
One other point which you wouldn't know unless it happened to you is my
kids when they were in graduate school wanted to use their mobile hotspot.
It's limited to 5GB/month, which, for them, runs out near the halfway mark.
What T-Mobile does, to help them know this, is send them a text at 4GB.
Even if they go over the 5GB/month, T-Mobile will just slow them down
(there are no extra charges unless you explicitly ask for $10GB/month).
Also the 5GB/month hotspot doesn't work in Europe - but everything else
does so you still have unlimited data in Europe with no roaming charges.
>>Or you could just move to Mint Mobile, a Tmobile MVNO. That's what I did
>>6 years ago. I pay $25/mth for the 20gb plan, that's the rate when you pay for
>>a year at a time. Right now they have a promo going on, any plan for $15/mth
>>for the first 3 months. So you can get the 40gb plan for that, after it's $30/mth
>>if you pay for a year, $35 is you pay for 6 months, $40 if you pay for 3 months.
>>Works great for me.
>
> I pay Mint $20/moth for 15 gigs. (It used to be less data for the same
> price, but they raised it a year or two ago. for everyone.)
I'd love to pay $20/phone for unlimited everything (where I would consider
15GB of data unlimited for me given I probably use kilobytes per month).
I'm glad people use the MVNOs because I'd love to get a better price than
what I'm paying - which - is the following $100 for 4 (plus 2) SIM cards.
<https://i.postimg.cc/L6dFGXVd/tmopromo03.jpg> $100 for 6 lines + $16 fees
The bill has gone up by ~4 bucks since then due to the taxation/fee system.
> I assume Wally means, by 4 phones, four lines.
> Not one line with 3 extensions, LOL
Many years ago T-Mobile offered free SIM cards for life so two of my six
lines are for the iPads - but then I have four lines for $100/month + fees.
<https://i.postimg.cc/nhpbcP50/tmopromo04.jpg> Simple Choice Plan Costs
A couple of years ago T-Mobile offered free Android phones and half price
iPhones (with tradein) so I also took advantage of that as shown below.
<https://i.postimg.cc/YC1B906F/tmopromo01.jpg> A32-5G & iPhone 12 contract
The iPhone cost finished a while ago so now charges are only for service.
> And Mint which afaik is among the cheapest for one
> line doens't seem to give a discount for more than one. So if I had 4
> lines, I'd be paying the same as Wally but each would only have 15
> gigs. And wally's are all unlimited!!!
We have to be careful about the true meaning of "unlimited", as Steve
Scharf would point out - which is that it's unlimited high speed data
unless the tower you're connecting too is considered "congested", and in
that case, then it's only 50 GB of high speed data on _that_ tower.
In practice, of course, unless you're a college kid, it's unlimited.
> So he has a bettr rate with Tmobile than I would have with Mint.
If I could get a better deal with the MVNO's, just let me know as I'm fine
with T-Mobile, AT&T & Verizon as I've had them all at one time or another.
> Didn't I get that right?
One other point which you wouldn't know unless it happened to you is my
kids when they were in graduate school wanted to use their mobile hotspot.
It's limited to 5GB/month, which, for them, runs out near the halfway mark.
What T-Mobile does, to help them know this, is send them a text at 4GB.
Even if they go over the 5GB/month, T-Mobile will just slow them down
(there are no extra charges unless you explicitly ask for $10GB/month).
Also the 5GB/month hotspot doesn't work in Europe - but everything else
does so you still have unlimited data in Europe with no roaming charges.
sms
Oct 20, 2023, 11:32:24 AM10/20/23
to
On 10/19/2023 7:49 AM, Ken Blake wrote:
<snip>
<snip>
> OK, thanks. I never travel at all, anymore.
Based on that response, and Patrick's identical response, T-Mobile
should create a marketing campaign promoting their service to people
that don't ever leave their own, covered area.
In my area, most people do travel at least around the greater Bay Area
where coverage greatly varies when you leave the core urban area of each
county. I can drive ten minutes into the surrounding foothills of my
town and be in an area with no AT&T or T-Mobile coverage, according to
both the carrier's maps as well as the FCC maps.
The reason for the coverage differences goes back many decades when GTE
Mobilnet, which morphed into Verizon, was the only carrier that spent
the money to put up towers in those areas. By the time AT&T got their
act together there were restrictions on cell tower placement for
aesthetic reasons.
Pac Bell Mobile, which ended up selling to T-Mobile after the SBC AT&T
merger, was very late to the game and never made any attempt at more
rural coverage, plus they were hampered by being at 1900 MHz.
Wally J
Oct 20, 2023, 3:37:27 PM10/20/23
to
sms <scharf...@geemail.com> wrote
> In my area, most people do travel at least around the greater Bay Area
> where coverage greatly varies when you leave the core urban area of each
> county. I can drive ten minutes into the surrounding foothills of my
> town and be in an area with no AT&T or T-Mobile coverage, according to
> both the carrier's maps as well as the FCC maps.
I tell it like it is.
And I live in the same area that Steve does (he's in Cupertino, while
I'm in those "surrounding foothills" of the Santa Cruz mountain range).
I've had all three major US carriers sequentially over time.
They're all about the same out here in terms of overall coverage (IMHO).
For some reason, only Steve shills for a carrier on this newsgroup,
where everyone else doesn't care what carrier they're on for the most part.
Most of us just pick one of the big three in the USA (AT&T, T-Mobile or
Verizon) and stick with them - and over time - I've had all three of them.
Rest assured I'd notice if the coverage sucked any more on one than on the
other given I live in those "surrounding foothills" that Steve claims has
no T-Mobile coverage - but - as always from Steve - fantastic Verizon
coverage.
Even nospam wouldn't say that crap since the coverage varies where Steve,
the consummate politician, always cherry picks the exact spot to prove the
point he pre-determined (which is the only way a politician can do things).
I'm well aware that others (like badgolferman) are of the same opinion that
I am, and I'm also well apprised of the yearly annual empirical tests which
pit the three carriers for coverage - which never support Steve's claims.
Of course, Steve will pick the one spot in the middle of Death Valley that
has only Verizon coverage and not T-Mobile coverage - but that's his ploy.
Steve will also foist fake JPGs that he's personally edited out the
captions & the fact they never cover 5G signal - only 4G (not even 3G).
He doesn't tell you any of that so either he's ignorant that these are
calculated maps based on what carriers tell the FCC and that NONE of these
maps that Steve provides us has _any_ 5G coverage at all on them.
Ever the consummate politician, Steve feeds us this falsified data to fit
his pre-determined opinion that Verizon is fantastic & T-Mobile sucks.
BTW... as I said, I've had all three (sequentially) in the Silicon Valley
and surrounding hills plus I hike a lot where my friends and neighbors I
hike with have all three, and my assessment is that their coverage is about
the same in these same "surrounding hills" that Steve swears is filled to
the brim with Verizon coverage and not at all with T-Mobile coverage.
After having said they're all about the same, I don't make any money off of
any of them (as Steve has said he does) so I don't care if one is better
than the other - and - in fact - I might move to it if it was much better.
I'm no fool. I'll take the best service (price to performance) out there,
although I don't go to the inordinately complex machinations that Steve is
a genius at for finding the one MVNO at the one moment that has a deal.
I give my sincere thanks and kudos to Steve for unearthing the best deals
in not only MVNOs but also credit cards and charging hardware - where I've
actually purchased most of the charging hardware that Steve recommended.
I even bought both the $100 Google Fi Motorola phone and three free Samsung
A32-5G phones when Steve pointed each of them out on this newsgroup, so I
find Steve's affinity to find the best deal rather astutely helpful
(where the iPhone was half price - with a trade-in - on that same deal).
In summary, Steve is rather astute in finding the best hardware, and in
finding the best prices on MVNOs, credit cards and phone deals... but...
Steve shills too hard for Verizon over T-Mobile where most of us on
T-Mobile don't seem to be able to support Steve's views on that carrier.
Not that we care about the carrier, per se (as we don't); but we do care
that the truth be brought forth - where methinks Steve skews the facts.
> In my area, most people do travel at least around the greater Bay Area
> where coverage greatly varies when you leave the core urban area of each
> county. I can drive ten minutes into the surrounding foothills of my
> town and be in an area with no AT&T or T-Mobile coverage, according to
> both the carrier's maps as well as the FCC maps.
And I live in the same area that Steve does (he's in Cupertino, while
I'm in those "surrounding foothills" of the Santa Cruz mountain range).
I've had all three major US carriers sequentially over time.
They're all about the same out here in terms of overall coverage (IMHO).
For some reason, only Steve shills for a carrier on this newsgroup,
where everyone else doesn't care what carrier they're on for the most part.
Most of us just pick one of the big three in the USA (AT&T, T-Mobile or
Verizon) and stick with them - and over time - I've had all three of them.
Rest assured I'd notice if the coverage sucked any more on one than on the
other given I live in those "surrounding foothills" that Steve claims has
no T-Mobile coverage - but - as always from Steve - fantastic Verizon
coverage.
Even nospam wouldn't say that crap since the coverage varies where Steve,
the consummate politician, always cherry picks the exact spot to prove the
point he pre-determined (which is the only way a politician can do things).
I'm well aware that others (like badgolferman) are of the same opinion that
I am, and I'm also well apprised of the yearly annual empirical tests which
pit the three carriers for coverage - which never support Steve's claims.
Of course, Steve will pick the one spot in the middle of Death Valley that
has only Verizon coverage and not T-Mobile coverage - but that's his ploy.
Steve will also foist fake JPGs that he's personally edited out the
captions & the fact they never cover 5G signal - only 4G (not even 3G).
He doesn't tell you any of that so either he's ignorant that these are
calculated maps based on what carriers tell the FCC and that NONE of these
maps that Steve provides us has _any_ 5G coverage at all on them.
Ever the consummate politician, Steve feeds us this falsified data to fit
his pre-determined opinion that Verizon is fantastic & T-Mobile sucks.
BTW... as I said, I've had all three (sequentially) in the Silicon Valley
and surrounding hills plus I hike a lot where my friends and neighbors I
hike with have all three, and my assessment is that their coverage is about
the same in these same "surrounding hills" that Steve swears is filled to
the brim with Verizon coverage and not at all with T-Mobile coverage.
After having said they're all about the same, I don't make any money off of
any of them (as Steve has said he does) so I don't care if one is better
than the other - and - in fact - I might move to it if it was much better.
I'm no fool. I'll take the best service (price to performance) out there,
although I don't go to the inordinately complex machinations that Steve is
a genius at for finding the one MVNO at the one moment that has a deal.
I give my sincere thanks and kudos to Steve for unearthing the best deals
in not only MVNOs but also credit cards and charging hardware - where I've
actually purchased most of the charging hardware that Steve recommended.
I even bought both the $100 Google Fi Motorola phone and three free Samsung
A32-5G phones when Steve pointed each of them out on this newsgroup, so I
find Steve's affinity to find the best deal rather astutely helpful
(where the iPhone was half price - with a trade-in - on that same deal).
In summary, Steve is rather astute in finding the best hardware, and in
finding the best prices on MVNOs, credit cards and phone deals... but...
Steve shills too hard for Verizon over T-Mobile where most of us on
T-Mobile don't seem to be able to support Steve's views on that carrier.
Not that we care about the carrier, per se (as we don't); but we do care
that the truth be brought forth - where methinks Steve skews the facts.
Wally J
Oct 20, 2023, 3:52:14 PM10/20/23
to
trader_4 <tra...@optonline.net> wrote
> I didn't analyze the math, just responded to his desire to move to a lower
> cost provider in general. Looking at it now, looks to me like he's saying
> the new pricing will be $190 for 6 lines.
I tell it like it is...
The math we should use is the bill goes from $120 to $190 per month for
_four_ lines, if I allow them to migrate me (not six lines - because two of
the six lines are free for life data SIM cards for my iOS tablets only).
<https://i.postimg.cc/nhpbcP50/tmopromo04.jpg> $100 for 6 lines + $16 fees
Note the fees went up from $16 to $20 since then...
<https://i.postimg.cc/G2wVHjTT/optoutplanmigration.jpg> $120/month in 2023
All the math should be done on the four paid lines, is my point.
a. I pay $100/month for four paid lines (plus two free iPad data SIMs)
b. It would go to $160/month for those same four paid lines
So the forced migration would turn my $120/month (includes taxes & fees)
to $190/month (also includes taxes & fees) for four paid lines (2 are
free).
In terms of price/line, it goes from $25/month/line (not including taxes &
fees) to $40/month/line (not including taxes & fees).
Bad deal in every way given all you get for that extra $15/month x 12
months = $180 is Netflix, AAA for one person for 1 year & 6 months of Apple
TV (whatever that is) and free calling in Canada and Mexico.
BTW, I guess it's an "upgrade" because of those things, so T-Mobile isn't
lying - they're just being sleazy (IMHO). And I like T-Mobile but I tell it
like it is.
> So you're right, for unlimited that's
> about $32 a line. If unlimited is really needed on all of them, I would not
> move, hard to beat that. When you have multiple lines, the big three can
> be very competitive. If 5gb is enough, then it would be $15/mth at Mint
> if you buy a year at a time.
I wouldn't mind buying a year at a time but at the moment, the kids need
the unlimited data far more than I do (I barely use 1MB of data per month).
BTW, most of that is likely because I'm good at using Wi-Fi since I used to
not have data plans long ago so I had to learn how to do things on Wi-Fi
while driving and visiting places (like turn the iPad into a speakerphone).
> The only multiple line thing at Mint is that you can use the family plan
> option which allows one account to manage the other ones and if you
> pay for a year at a time, you can pay it quarterly instead of all up front.
I'm Ok with paying on any schedule since everything is autopay anyway.
> I didn't analyze the math, just responded to his desire to move to a lower
> cost provider in general. Looking at it now, looks to me like he's saying
> the new pricing will be $190 for 6 lines.
I tell it like it is...
The math we should use is the bill goes from $120 to $190 per month for
_four_ lines, if I allow them to migrate me (not six lines - because two of
the six lines are free for life data SIM cards for my iOS tablets only).
<https://i.postimg.cc/YC1B906F/tmopromo01.jpg> A32-5G & iPhone 12 contract
<https://i.postimg.cc/Xq5SpS4D/tmopromo02.jpg> $15/mo iPhone,$0/mo Android
<https://i.postimg.cc/nhpbcP50/tmopromo04.jpg> $100 for 6 lines + $16 fees
Note the fees went up from $16 to $20 since then...
<https://i.postimg.cc/G2wVHjTT/optoutplanmigration.jpg> $120/month in 2023
All the math should be done on the four paid lines, is my point.
a. I pay $100/month for four paid lines (plus two free iPad data SIMs)
b. It would go to $160/month for those same four paid lines
So the forced migration would turn my $120/month (includes taxes & fees)
to $190/month (also includes taxes & fees) for four paid lines (2 are
free).
In terms of price/line, it goes from $25/month/line (not including taxes &
fees) to $40/month/line (not including taxes & fees).
Bad deal in every way given all you get for that extra $15/month x 12
months = $180 is Netflix, AAA for one person for 1 year & 6 months of Apple
TV (whatever that is) and free calling in Canada and Mexico.
BTW, I guess it's an "upgrade" because of those things, so T-Mobile isn't
lying - they're just being sleazy (IMHO). And I like T-Mobile but I tell it
like it is.
> So you're right, for unlimited that's
> about $32 a line. If unlimited is really needed on all of them, I would not
> move, hard to beat that. When you have multiple lines, the big three can
> be very competitive. If 5gb is enough, then it would be $15/mth at Mint
> if you buy a year at a time.
I wouldn't mind buying a year at a time but at the moment, the kids need
the unlimited data far more than I do (I barely use 1MB of data per month).
BTW, most of that is likely because I'm good at using Wi-Fi since I used to
not have data plans long ago so I had to learn how to do things on Wi-Fi
while driving and visiting places (like turn the iPad into a speakerphone).
> The only multiple line thing at Mint is that you can use the family plan
> option which allows one account to manage the other ones and if you
> pay for a year at a time, you can pay it quarterly instead of all up front.
I'm Ok with paying on any schedule since everything is autopay anyway.
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