Iphone4 may have had an incident in the tub for a second.
So, I searched and started a spreadsheet. VZW with discount was still more than TMO for two phones with data (the amount we use anyway). TMOs cheapest monthly plan: 500 MB of 4G followed by 2G. No 4G at home.
Converging on HTC One and Iphone5, TMO, no contract, unlimited talk, text, 500MB 4G.
Downside: Non-replaceable batteries (non-easily replaceable?).
Multi-variables ?
Signed up for Kin return using Link . Accepted and got a code by email. Have to buy phone by April 30. $100 back.
A different code for a free case when pre-ordering via HTC website, by April 18. However, website allows this only for the two year contract version of TMO plans. Skip that.
TMO - free car kit for ordering from their website.
To confuse it even more:
TMO: If direct order online or by phone and port by May 31, $50 back. Link . Not for prepaid.
Iphone4 trade in only available in TMO stores. Not available in online. However stores charge $35 activation fee. Waived online. Also free shipping online. Offer: $0 down (instead of $99) and upto $120 back.
Plus $25 referral for you and your referrer. Thanks to Jon . Link
April 30: try to order from TMO website for monthly installments. No go. Backorder (5/2). Process went to almost the end (click to accept credit offer for monthly installments) and then
"An error has occured. No changes have been made to your account.
If you have any questions, please visit us at T-Mobile.com or call us at 1-800-937-8997."
Online chat was not helpful: Please go to store. Also car kit is automatic.
Look at getting HTC One from their website. Unlocked. Available 5/23
Going all in: Ordered the phone by paying full upfront. If this was TMO technique, it worked.
Back to trying to activate trade in. Code does not work on website now. Argh. Argh. Called HTC. The rep checked a few things and then said that the best option is to write a support email from the tradeup website. Not run by HTC. This throws another spanner in the mix. Rep also said that the case offer was independent of HTC and can't do anything about it now.
In addition, pretty circular reference on the TMO referral website. Sign up using your TMO number !
Back to waiting now.
To minimize switching charges.
Iphone4 contract end date 5/5
Kin contract end date 5/13
Billing cycle 5/9
23 months in. For ending contract early, penalty for Iphone4 = 120 (350-23*10). Kin = 60 (175-23*5).
Will validate these in time.
Well thanks again to Jon for suggesting I document this.
Be Aware. This is one specific example. What you do is at your own risk.
