It's widely known that iPhone users, with their unlimited data plans, have been straining the AT&T network for a while.This has led to service problems and PR problems (despite the iPhone being a big hit, AT&T's reputation is low) and now AT&T may be discussing ways to respond.
One idea possibly under discussion: charging users for the data they use. At least that's what the Huffington Post is reporting Ralph de la Vega, AT&T's head of consumer services, discussed this week.
It's hard to see how this a very good idea for iPhone users. It makes a lot of sense for AT&T, of course, and may help shore up its network (if bandwidth hogs are forced to reduce their usage), but this is the opposite direction we should be heading. And it's a direction that could further harm AT&T's chances for holding onto an exclusive iPhone contract or any of the millions of new customers it acquired thanks to the iPhone.
Most other developed countries offer much faster broadband speeds, without limit (or with higher limits), than the U.S. does. I'm not qualified to say why that is, but I'm guessing limiting usage of network connectivity, and charging extra to those who use more, isn't the path to closing that divide.
Also, if AT&T thinks people don't like it now, wait until iPhone bills go from an already expensive $100+/month to even more than that. The move will be especially unpopular if a large number of iPhone users are affected.
No doubt AT&T is in a tough position here, but shifting costs back to its customers - essentially punishing its most enthusiastic users - doesn't seem like a good solution.
Comments
It don’t think it’s a good idea for the customers to take a hit like that. I’m thinking that it’s a good thing that they can use the Internet even thou it’s limited and your still working out things. Not at it’s maxium use how can you even think about charging more. Must find another way. What about the unlimited texting that’s an area, after 2,000 text charge .03cents and your new plan is for excessive users pay more by putting a limit of how much Internet use they have ex. 3 hrs a day after that you pay extra. No more free phones $25. To $40. dollars for what use to be free phones. All new things introduced by spring then you’ll see more money coming in.