I personally feel the opposite of the OP. How exactly is a subsidized phone a ripoff? The PLAN is going to be the same whether you bring your own phone or get one from the carrier. If you know you aren't going to be sticking around for 2 years then buying your phone outright might be the way to go. Otherwise I'd say save some money.
Very true. In the US, the top 3 carriers (Verizon, At&t, and Sprint) charge the same rates whether you have a subsidized device or not. This effectively takes any advantage to purchasing the device without subsidy out of the equation. The only other option is to set up a device with an inferior carrier that offers mediocre quality with severely regionalized service reception (T-Mobile, Revel, Boost, Clear, and about a hundred more). For the most part, the only reason people go to those carriers is either because the city they live in is covered "enough" with that carrier and they don't leave the city much so why not save a few bucks, or they cannot get credit approval with the big 3. (Anyone using those lower carriers, don't get your panties in a knot! I'm generalizing) Unfortunately, those low end carriers are the only ones that offer better rates for unsubsidized phones. Of course to service detriment.
Carrier prepays are a joke...unless you want a pure talk/text phone.
Calling cards are a pain in the ass. Once again pure talk phone.
If you don't see that its a rip off, then you are as much the problem.
I hate when people snap at other people without supporting their point. Bunch of followers. Stop going with the crowd and educate yourself.
Q: Are Carrier Subsidies a Rip Off?
A: No, you'd be stupid not to take one with the big 3.
Q: What is the Rip Off?
A: The policy among the big 3 to charge more money across the board on monthly plan rates to compensate for the subsidies.
Q: Why is that policy a Rip Off?
A: Because it does not give the freedom to purchase a device outright (without taking subsidies) in order to remain off contract with a reduced monthly service plan.
Q: What do we have to blame for the $30 Verizon upgrade charge?
A: The iphone..... Bastards!
(Actually 80% serious on the last one. I'd explain why but I think this post is too long as is.)
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