Every Friday in October (starting today), Best Buy hosts Free Phones Fridays, when the retailer offers four different phones at no upfront cost. The catch? You have to sign a two-year service contract, but that’s a fairly typical requirement when you get a subsidized phone.
smartphones
Cell Phones: You’re Probably Paying Too Much for a Plan You Don’t Need
By one estimate, 70% of cell phone users are “way oversubscribed,” meaning that they’re paying—overpaying really—for a plan with more minutes and texts than they need.
How a $400 Phone Costs Less than a $150 Phone
Paying more upfront can be a long-term money saver.
Do You Spend Less than $2,000 Annually on Internet, TV, Cell Phone Service, and Video Games?
If so, you’re in the minority. All of these expenses traditionally fall into the entertainment category, as “discretionary” spending. But more and more, they’re viewed as indispensable, right up there with electricity, water, and food.
Don’t Want to Pay for a Web-Enabled Cell-Phone? Too Bad
To many customers, the recent cell-phone plan price cut heralded by AT&T and Verizon actually amounts to an upsell.
So When Does the Real Cell-Phone Price War Begin?
AT&T and Verizon both recently dropped prices on unlimited calling plans by $30 a month. But other changes make it possible—likely, even—that the wireless providers will make more money off of the typical customer.
The Early Adopter: Trendsetter or Sucker?
By buying the newest, most hyped, most eagerly anticipated gadgets on the market, you get the thrill of being on the cutting edge. You get bragging rights in tech-obsessed circles. You’re a magnet for stares from strangers, who may be puzzled, jealous, or both. You also get to pay a premium compared to consumers willing to wait a little …
Cell-Phone Bill Watch: Introducing the $350 Early Termination Fee
For some smartphones, the fee for jumping ship and canceling your service plan early is now a whopping $350.