Verizon Wireless Clarifies Unlimited Data Position as Angry Customers Rant Online

By Josh Long

Some Verizon Wireless customers were fuming upon hearing some news reports that the company would eliminate its unlimited data plan for 3G customers upon their migration to 4G LTE and the carrier’s introduction of a shared data offering.

“If they take away unlimited Data I WILL LEAVE AND GO TO SPRINT!,” wrote one Verizon Wireless customer on a community forum.

The mobile giant, however, clarified that it’s not 86ing the $30-per-month unlimited data plan all at once.

“Customers will not be automatically moved to new shared data plans. If a 3G or 4G smartphone customer is on an unlimited plan now and they do not want to change their plan, they will not have to do so,” Verizon Wireless said in a statement emailed to The New York Times.

Verizon further explained the unlimited plan will no longer be available to customers who purchase handsets at discounted prices after the company introduces its shared data plans.

“Customers who purchase phones at full retail price and are on an unlimited smartphone data plan will be able to keep that plan,” the Times quoted Verizon. “The same pricing and policies will be applied to all 3G and 4G LTE smartphones.”

Customer reactions were mixed to news that Verizon would eliminate the unlimited data plan that it has grandfathered in for certain customers. One customer said it wasn’t a big deal because he or she had yet to reach 2 gigabytes of data usage.

“However, what really has me unhappy is the fact that if and when I do want to update my phone, it will cost me an additional $30,” this person wrote, referring to Verizon’s recently announced charge for customers who buy new mobile equipment at discounted prices with a two-year contract. “Why? Is Verizon becoming another “greed” organization? It seems to be leaning in that direction.”