AT&T's Next plan allows for more contract flexibility


Following T-Mobile's unconventional subsidized contracts, AT&T later this month will introduce their own more customer-friendly plan. Starting July 26th, AT&T's Next plan allows customers to trade in their on-contract devices every 12 months. After 12 months if your device is in working order, it appears AT&T will accept it as a trade towards the balance of the subsidizes device. AT&T says customers will only need to pay sales tax on their new device with no other fees attached.

The agreement is based on a 20 month agreement, and it appears the subsidy will be spread over the first 20 months of the contract. If customers cancel early, they're obligated to pay the balance of that agreement. If the device is damaged or stolen, the customer is also responsible for that. AT&T of course recommends customers buy their monthly insurance to protect against damage or theft.

This seems much fairer. It will be interesting to see if Verizon makes a change.