Wow! The lengths that people with go to argue for something they can't afford is astonishing...

It's not about affording it. It's about knowing what you're paying for and getting what you're paying for, simple. If you buy a Ferrari and the dealer tells you that you have to pay an extra $100 a month after paying $200,000 up front for it, won't you want to know why? If he tells you that it's because the Ferrari has a faster, more powerful engine, won't you wonder why you have to pay an extra monthly fee for the better engine? Surely if you can afford to buy a Ferrari, $100 a month is a drop in the bucket, but you probably wouldn't feel comfortable giving away your money for nothing. Similarly, $10 a month won't break most people, but it just seems ridiculous to pay for something and get nothing.

sounds like a great phone, just not sure i want to pay the extra fee, especially since it doesnt seem to be for any good reason. thanks for doing this!

I have to agree that Sprint has done a bad thing. The phone is great! But does not operate any better than the Blackberry I had prior. Sprint TV still stops every 15-20 seconds to re-buffer. It still takes 30-45 seconds to load a new web page. I'm not complaining about the service as it has been this way for years and still probably better than the competition. What makes me angry is the fact I was not told about the added charge prior to getting the phone, I’m not seeing anything for the extra $10.00, Sprint talks in circles when questioned and when pressured for answers they suggested I get another phone. I live in a weak signal area. No 4G and weak 3G, so I’m paying more for nothing. I used to talk sprint up. No more. I have lost all respect for Sprint.

They sound like idiots trying to explain the fee, here are some quotes from from an email from the desk of Dan Hesse (which I can provide), and these quotes ultimately solidified my decision to return the evo and leave sprint after 10 year. The fee is for;

"8 megapixel video and stream directly to the internet",

"HTC EVO users will typically consume more data, and the Premium Data Fee assures they
have the bandwidth to accomplish this as well as being in an unlimited capacity." (UNLIMITED DATA?!),

"The $10.00 fee is more closely associated with the relationship between the HTC EVO capabilities, the Google Operating System" (the Hero isn't charged $10 extra).

Just tell us that you are trying to recoup some of the cost of subsidizing this phone. It still won't sit well with most of us, but it is better than sounding like complete idiots with these lies, and thinking we are bigger idiots and will believe what you're saying. It should bother everyone who has this phone in a 3g network and on a unlimited data plan. From whatever phone you had before to the evo, there is no difference in service, nothing premium about the "Premium Data Fee". You DON'T have to pay this fee, Verizon is coming out with the Droid X, same specs as this phone, IPhone 4 (minus the 8mp camera, screen size) very comparable.

Return the evo, send Sprint a message that we WON'T be bullied. HTC is rumored to be close to releasing a 1.5ghz processor phone, HTC Scorpion/Olympian. Evo will be obsolete by years end.

I was actually in a Sprint store today and got to play around with the phone. Yes, it is an amazing phone. BUT
I don't think it's worth the extra $10 a month. I personally think that they just want more money out of this new "4G" phone.. Is it really still 4G if you don't live in a 4G area??
Let's say you say you buy the phone anyways knowing about this monthly fee.
you pay: $200 for the phone
$70 a month for "unlimited everything"
$10 a month for... something
over two years you're paying: $2,120
I'll end up paying $240 dollars for something i'll never get to use.
What if i'm OK with using 3G???? This should be a CHOICE. We are being cheated out of our money just because we want a good phone! It's just not right!

What none of you people seem to understand is that the $69 unlimited everything plan is not really unlimited. There is a data cap at 5 GB, just like AT&Ts plan caps off at 2GB. Meaning, thats all you get, unless you want to pay more. Much more than $10. And for those of you who don't understand, 5GB is taken up with about 2 regular def movies, or 1.5 HD movies. Not really a big deal for people who don't watch alot of movies on their phones, but once Netflix is released for Android phones, it will be a really big deal. That extra $10 Sprint is charging means THERE IS NO CAP. It is all you can stream. UNLIMITED. Really, I don't understand why you are complaining about something that nobody else even offers.

Betty -

What none of you people seem to understand is that the $69 unlimited everything plan is not really unlimited. There is a data cap at 5 GB, just like AT&Ts plan caps off at 2GB. Meaning, thats all you get, unless you want to pay more. Much more than $10. And for those of you who don’t understand, 5GB is taken up with about 2 regular def movies, or 1.5 HD movies. Not really a big deal for people who don’t watch alot of movies on their phones, but once Netflix is released for Android phones, it will be a really big deal. That extra $10 Sprint is charging means THERE IS NO CAP. It is all you can stream. UNLIMITED. Really, I don’t understand why you are complaining about something that nobody else even offers.

Betty, there actually is no cap for phone plans, it's only for the data cards. This has been confirmed by Sprint numerous times and is also in their terms of service.

I hate it when companies do this....I do hope a lawsuit teaches Sprint to stop advertising a 5GB cap as "unlimited"....

My best guess is that Sprint is charging the $10 for the extra bandwidth that the phone will use... in any other crappy phone with regular 3G internet, they expect you to barely reach 5GB of usage because the processor is so damn slow and screen so crappy. But with this, you'll be sucking the bandwidth in the form of checking out youtube videos....and as for unlimited....they mean unlimited in a shitty 3G barely gets Youtube let alone has flash phone....like saying unlimited mileage for a bike (which they count on you not getting far on), but pay extra $10 for unlimited mileage in a car.

Good luck, don't give up, make them explain the fee!!

http://shop.sprint.com/en/shop...
this link says nothing about an extra $10 nor does it have the word "rich" in it.
i didnt know the evo was different then any other 4G phone being that there isnt any 4G phone yet but still....
the reason they do this is the same reason att has raised their pricing on data for iphone because they see ppl using it and they want more money out of it....i mean if att is going to say fine were going to charge you $25 for 200mb or whatever they are going to charge then why dont they give you the option not to pick a tier (ie 25 200mb 35 5gb)..i mean iphone is a great phone without having the internet on it through att just use wifi....
also what happens if you go to a website that has more black pixels compared to white i mean the more the color the more KB thats going to be added to your data account...are they going to take that into account....also with companies buying up mobile ad companies are they going to not put up an add when all your trying to do is check your email. who's going to regulate that....

To "Tired of people not understanding a consumer driven economy"

For capitalism to work, consumers must have access to information. The entire theory is based on all players having access to 100% of the information at any given time. Certainly that's not the case in the real world, but efforts like those this site is supporting helps us consumers gain and share that information. The point is to get some information from Sprint, share it with other consumers, and then like you said - let each person decided for him/her self what to do.

Jouche, the problem with that logic is that not everyone buys the phone for $200, some people paid full MSRP for it. At that point, what are you even paying for then?

Ruben, Sprint CS is not necessarily stupid because of this situation (I'm not saying it isn't possible lol...), but rather that they are only allowed to give certain responses to certain questsions. I'm sure many reps have their own ideas of the fee, but they're only allowed to say what Sprint allows them to say, which is the copied and pasted marketingspeak we've seen in these chats.

The $10 is very simple. We are paying more because in theory customers with this phone will be using Sprint's data network more than any other phone. We see this with AT&T and the iPhone. The iPhone makes up a small percentage of the phones on the network, but uses most of the network. I'm ok with paying more for using more, however I don't think they are communicating this well. The way they describe this fee makes no sense. Just say what it is.

I live on the West Coast and for them to charge me a 10$ a month fee is pretty stupid when there is no 4g Network even remotely on the West Coast according to their coverage sheet. Why it's all in Chicago is beyond me.

It really annoys me having to pay the extra 10$ a month when there is no 4g service on the west coast... I can only hope its for building the 4g towers they "said" are coming. A good question would be why they aren't building towers in major cities on the the west coast first like LA instead of other business hubs like Chicago.

Dont blame the reps for this thing..... We can not say that the fee is for 4G, becuase Sprint trained us to prevent to say that.

We are monitored and say that is an incorrect info according to the sprint policy, in fact, if you call to cust care for something, we can NOT say: "Its a Sprint policy", even if its a Sprint policy.

Sprint is trying to explain twisted lies instead explain the real info. They think that if you know the truth you may cancel the service, and beacuse of this they create magic histories for kids with no brain.

Sprint rep.

How about you go to another company and pay more for a lesser phone? Why don't you shut up and quit complaining. It's still better hardware at a lower cost regardless if the company wants to charge an extra fee to their already low priced plan... you little cry baby.

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You are on a secure session with a Sprint Specialist.
Session ID: 437196



10:41:10 PM : Connected to sprint.ehosts.net

10:41:10 PM : Session ID: 437196

10:41:10 PM : Explain The Fee: Initial Question/Comment: $10 Premium DATA fee

10:41:15 PM : Please wait and the next available specialist will be with you shortly.

10:41:20 PM : If you are chatting today for Technical Support, please call (888) 211-4727.

10:41:20 PM : Maggie S has joined this session!

10:41:20 PM : Connected with Maggie S. Your Reference Number for this chat session is 437196.

10:41:20 PM : Thank you for contacting Sprint. My name is Maggie S.

10:41:25 PM : Maggie S: Hello.

10:41:30 PM : Explain The Fee: Howdy

10:42:08 PM : Explain The Fee: I have a question regarding the 10$ fee that I am supposed to pay for for the HTC EVO

10:42:50 PM : Maggie S: Please allow me a few moments to get the information for you.

10:42:52 PM : Explain The Fee: Hello?

10:43:10 PM : Maggie S: Please allow me a few moments.

10:43:50 PM : Maggie S: The $10 Premium Data Fee is not a charge for 4G service.

10:44:29 PM : Explain The Fee: Then what is it for?

10:44:45 PM : Maggie S: Yes, $10.00 premium charge is required to activate HTC EVO phone.

10:44:55 PM : Maggie S: It is for a data rich experience with uncapped data usage .

10:45:10 PM : Explain The Fee: I am already purchasing a 69.99 EVERYTHING UNLIMITED data plan

10:46:11 PM : Explain The Fee: I need to pay $10.00 every month to activate the phone that I am already paying premium $199.99 for?

10:47:01 PM : Maggie S: I understand that you have Everything Data is active on your account. However this $10.00 charge is associated with Device and its a recurring charge.

10:47:36 PM : Maggie S: Let me explain this to you.

10:47:57 PM : Explain The Fee: "10:44:45 PM : Maggie S: Yes, $10.00 premium charge is required to activate HTC EVO phone"

10:48:26 PM : Maggie S: I know you are going to enjoy the HTC EVO 4G, it is a fantastic device. And, because this device is data-rich, it required a $10 Premium Data plan. Afterall, it’s the only 3G and 4G compatible handset available. It will cost $79.99/mo or an additional $10/mo per EVO added to any of our best in class Anymobile, Anytime rate plans. Ok?

10:48:36 PM : Explain The Fee: Why Do I need to pay a 10.00 Fee when I have an UNLIMITED EVERYTHING plan ALREADY on my account for this device?

10:49:09 PM : Maggie S: EVO’s features are custom made for data-loving customers. These data-rich features are available to HTC EVO™ 4G customers regardless if they are in a 3G or 4G network. This will remove the 5GB data cap when you are on the 3G network. Plus faster data speeds if you live in or travel to one of the available 4G markets. Sprint 4G is expected to be available to up to 120 million people across the US by the end of 2010.

10:49:15 PM : Explain The Fee: Arent you ashamed or even guilty passing that sort of bullshit to me?

10:49:43 PM : Explain The Fee: I buy an EVERYTHING unlimited plan for this phone that I will pay 200.00 For it

10:50:02 PM : Explain The Fee: And I have to pay a 10.00 $ extra every month to activate this device?

10:50:11 PM : Explain The Fee: Do you have a supervisor I can speak to?

10:50:26 PM : Maggie S: Sure.

10:52:21 PM : Maggie S: Just to inform you that after adding this pack you will be able to get the unlimited data in your state and in roaming as well. There would not be any 5GB cap for this.

10:52:59 PM : Explain The Fee: It is not the question of "ADDING" this pack, this pack is mandatory add-on for this phone

10:53:43 PM : Explain The Fee: It is a fee that is not justified when I am purchasing an UNLIMITED EVERTHING DATA PLAN

10:53:50 PM : Maggie S: Yes, I know that. This pack will include on your account once you activate the HTC EVO phone.

10:53:51 PM : Explain The Fee: UNLIMITED = no CAPS

10:54:34 PM : Maggie S: This will remove the 5GB data cap when you are on the 3G network. Plus faster data speeds if you live in or travel to one of the available 4G markets.

10:54:40 PM : Explain The Fee: WELL according to what you said earlier, you said this 10.00 fee is required to activate the HTC EVO device?

10:54:52 PM : Maggie S: Yes.

10:55:18 PM : Explain The Fee: excuse me? Why would I need to worry about 5gb Caps, when I am already on an EVERYTHING UNLIMITED DATA PLAN?

10:55:35 PM : Explain The Fee: Or is there a hidden fine print that us consumers are not aware of?

10:57:00 PM : Explain The Fee: So why dont u make up your mind, is this fee needed to activate the device and it is a recurring fee to activate the device each billing cycle, or is it needed to simply charge the customers a fee for using a device without any justification?

10:57:19 PM : Maggie S: If you will connect your phone with your computer or laptop with a help of connection card, there will be a cap of 5GB.

10:57:20 PM : Explain The Fee: And when are you going to transfer me to your supervisor?

10:58:07 PM : Maggie S: However, with the HTC EVO phone, you can access unlimited Internet after connecting your phone with your computer.

10:58:40 PM : Maggie S: Yes, the $10.00 Premium Data Fee is required to activate the HTC EVO phone and without this pack, this phone cannot be activated.

10:58:50 PM : Maggie S: I am sorry for this but this is a requirement.

10:59:25 PM : Explain The Fee: SO BASICALLY, THE unlimited DATA plan I am purchasing, is not unlimited? Doesnt this open sprint up for lawsuites for fraudelent charges?

10:59:47 PM : Maggie S: No.

11:00:22 PM : Maggie S: You can access unlimited data with your current plan but since you will activate the HTC Evo, you need to add the $10.00 additional pack.

11:00:46 PM : Explain The Fee: 10.00 for service?

11:01:00 PM : Explain The Fee: For what service is this 10.00 fee?

11:01:22 PM : Maggie S: The $10.00 Fee is to use the HTC EVO phone.

11:01:32 PM : Explain The Fee: Earlier u said it is for rich data, then later you mentioned it is needed for activation, now it is something else

11:01:39 PM : Explain The Fee: So

11:01:54 PM : Explain The Fee: I am paying 199.99 with a 2 year contract with 100 Mail in rebate

11:02:11 PM : Explain The Fee: And then I have to pay 10.00 every month to use this device?

11:02:42 PM : Maggie S: See, currently the $10.00 needs to be added to activate the HTC EVO phone and without this, the new 4G cannot be activated.

11:02:59 PM : Maggie S: You can opt for another phones if you do not want to pay the additional $10.00 charges.

11:03:08 PM : Explain The Fee: There is no 4G, I Plan to use this phone in Alaska

11:03:31 PM : Explain The Fee: WHEN ARE YOU TRANSFERING ME TO YOUR SUPERVISOR?

11:03:54 PM : Explain The Fee: This is the 4th time I am requesting to speak to your supervisor

11:03:58 PM : Explain The Fee: Maggie!

11:04:12 PM : Maggie S: I am arranging a call and you will receive a call from my supervisor at the earliest.

11:04:30 PM : Explain The Fee: I do not have reception, I am inside a building

11:04:42 PM : Explain The Fee: I need to speak to him through this chat so I can keep track of the messages

11:05:35 PM : Stevie D has joined this session!

11:05:47 PM : Stevie D: Hi.

11:05:53 PM : Explain The Fee: If I need to refer to this chat log, is there an ID I can refer to?

11:05:57 PM : Stevie D: I am Maggie's supervisor.

11:06:10 PM : Explain The Fee: Hi

11:06:52 PM : Stevie D: Yes. The session # for your reference is 437196.

11:07:15 PM : Explain The Fee: Okay

11:07:39 PM : Explain The Fee: I need you to clarify a few things Maggie mentioned to me

11:07:52 PM : Stevie D: Sure.

11:08:02 PM : Stevie D: I would be glad to answer your questions.

11:08:04 PM : Explain The Fee: 10:43:50 PM : Maggie S: The $10 Premium Data Fee is not a charge for 4G service.

10:44:45 PM : Maggie S: Yes, $10.00 premium charge is required to activate HTC EVO phone.

10:52:21 PM : Maggie S: Just to inform you that after adding this pack you will be able to get the unlimited data in your state and in roaming as well. There would not be any 5GB cap for this.

11:00:22 PM : Maggie S: You can access unlimited data with your current plan but since you will activate the HTC Evo, you need to add the $10.00 additional pack.
11:01:22 PM : Maggie S: The $10.00 Fee is to use the HTC EVO phone.

11:02:42 PM : Maggie S: See, currently the $10.00 needs to be added to activate the HTC EVO phone and without this, the new 4G cannot be activated.

11:08:40 PM : Explain The Fee: I already have an UNLIMITED EVERYTHING DATA PLAN FYI

11:09:10 PM : Explain The Fee: In an AREA where 4G will probably not exist for the next 10 years

11:09:35 PM : Explain The Fee: 11:00:46 PM : Explain The Fee: 10.00 for service?

11:01:00 PM : Explain The Fee: For what service is this 10.00 fee?

11:01:22 PM : Maggie S: The $10.00 Fee is to use the HTC EVO phone.

11:01:32 PM : Explain The Fee: Earlier u said it is for rich data, then later you mentioned it is needed for activation, now it is something else

11:01:39 PM : Explain The Fee: So

11:01:54 PM : Explain The Fee: I am paying 199.99 with a 2 year contract with 100 Mail in rebate

11:02:11 PM : Explain The Fee: And then I have to pay 10.00 every month to use this device?

11:10:36 PM : Explain The Fee: So Basically this phone is 199.99 + 100 MIR + 10.00 * 24 months [2yr contract] = 539.99

11:12:02 PM : Stevie D: As I understand you have a concern about the $10 fee towards the Premium Data Fee.

11:12:27 PM : Explain The Fee: Premium Data fee on an already UNLIMMITED EVERYTHING DATA plan?

11:13:28 PM : Stevie D: As discussed, the fee is not a charge towards using the 4G service.

11:14:33 PM : Maggie S has left this session!

11:14:52 PM : Explain The Fee: And what is it for then?

11:15:11 PM : Stevie D: The fee is charged for the rich data experience that HTC EVO™ 4G provides whether in 3G or 4G Sprint network.

11:15:14 PM : Explain The Fee: For clarification purposes since you are indeed a supervisor with better knowledge on this than Maggie

11:15:33 PM : Stevie D: Let me explain what the rich data experience includes.

11:15:47 PM : Explain The Fee: Yes, as discussed, I am not interested nor will I use 4G since it will not be available to me

11:16:08 PM : Explain The Fee: And you already mentioned that this fee is NOT for the 4G service

11:16:17 PM : Explain The Fee: Please dont contradict yourself

11:16:29 PM : Stevie D: I can certainly understand your concern in this regard.

11:16:39 PM : Explain The Fee: Exactly

11:16:48 PM : Stevie D: THC EVO is a 4G device with rich data experience capability.

11:16:55 PM : Explain The Fee: I am paying premium 200.00 upfront for this device.

11:17:28 PM : Explain The Fee: Why do I need to pay 10.00 [hidden fee] for this device for a service that I am already paying for?

11:17:40 PM : Explain The Fee: What rich data capability are you talking about?

11:17:59 PM : Stevie D: The device has been made available for customers who wish to enjoy the functionality the device offers.

11:18:14 PM : Explain The Fee: Large screen? Faster CPU? Those are all HARDWARE specifications that I am paying for upfront

11:19:08 PM : Explain The Fee: Like Maggie, You are defending a point that you know yourself is not legitimate and close to fraudelent

11:19:24 PM : Explain The Fee: I go to the store

11:19:30 PM : Explain The Fee: Pay 299.99 for the device

11:19:51 PM : Explain The Fee: Purchase an UNLIMITED, YES, UNLIMITED EVERYTHING DATA plan

11:20:15 PM : Explain The Fee: yet there is a 10.00 fee for some magical features that only appear after I pay for it?

11:20:31 PM : Explain The Fee: What happens when I move to Antartica?

11:21:01 PM : Explain The Fee: Would the Large screen, Faster CPU cease to work because I dont have Sprint?

11:21:21 PM : Stevie D: I can certainly understand your concern about the fee, however is it applied irrespective of the phone usage in 3G or 4G Sprint network.

11:21:43 PM : Explain The Fee: Yes, I know, but for WHAT??

11:21:51 PM : Explain The Fee: What is this 10.00 FEE providing me?

11:22:11 PM : Explain The Fee: Will it cook food for me?

11:23:00 PM : Stevie D: Let me confirm the rich data experience that comes with the device.

11:23:22 PM : Explain The Fee: I am planning to purchase this phone for my entire sales staff, but this fee for an unknown fee that 5 Sprint Reps and 5 supervisors have failed to answer

11:23:31 PM : Explain The Fee: will deny sprint of our business

11:24:06 PM : Explain The Fee: I am hoping this chat log will be sent to my email for reference purposes

11:24:41 PM : Stevie D: Yes you will have a reference to this transcript after the end of the chat.

11:25:01 PM : Stevie D: I am sure you would want to purchase the device to avail the features and the experience it offers.

11:25:04 PM : Explain The Fee: You talk about this rich data experinence, Did I not already mention to you that I already have an UNNNNLLLLIIIMMMMMMMIIIIIIITTTTTTEDDDD EVERYYYYYYYYTHHHHHIIIINGGGG DATA PLAN?

11:25:25 PM : Explain The Fee: I am paying for this device

11:25:32 PM : Explain The Fee: Not that I am getting it for free

11:25:49 PM : Explain The Fee: Why do I need to pay 10.00 extra every month to keep using a device that I already paid for?

11:26:46 PM : Explain The Fee: Arent you just tricking the consumer into thinking the device costs 199.99

11:27:01 PM : Explain The Fee: but in reality, we are paying 199.99 + 240 = 439.99 for the device

11:27:22 PM : Explain The Fee: Correct?

11:28:12 PM : Stevie D: Let me share with you that EVO is a terrific 3G device that works even faster when used on the Sprint 4G network.

11:28:25 PM : Stevie D: If EVO was limited to 3G service only, it would be an incredible, advanced 3G phone.

11:28:47 PM : Explain The Fee: And like I mentioned, I do NOT plan to use the phone in a 4G Network

11:28:52 PM : Stevie D: With this device the mobile data speed is even faster.

11:28:58 PM : Explain The Fee: ah an

11:29:00 PM : Explain The Fee: Man

11:29:08 PM : Explain The Fee: U sound like Maggie now

11:29:18 PM : Explain The Fee: Give me the hard cold facts

11:29:28 PM : Explain The Fee: even if it puts sprint in the negative light

11:29:32 PM : Explain The Fee: Do the right thing man

11:29:56 PM : Explain The Fee: How are u going to tell your kids, that you lie at your work to make some $$$ ?

11:30:29 PM : Explain The Fee: I am done man, I intend to file a complaint with spring later this week, And intend to this chat log FYI

11:30:54 PM : Explain The Fee: For fraudelent advertisement, Fraudelent charges and Misinformation

11:31:05 PM : Stevie D: These data-rich features are available to HTC EVO™ 4G customers regardless if they are in a 3G or 4G network.

11:31:18 PM : Explain The Fee: Do you have an employee ID # ?

11:31:32 PM : Explain The Fee: Stevie D ?

11:32:03 PM : Stevie D: I can certainly understand your interest in the device.

11:32:25 PM : Explain The Fee: Have you heard of a class action law suit?

11:32:33 PM : Stevie D: The device has been launched keeping in mind that Sprint 4G is expected to be available to up to 120 million people across the US by the end of 2010.

11:33:00 PM : Explain The Fee: 11:31:18 PM : Explain The Fee: Do you have an employee ID # ?

11:31:32 PM : Explain The Fee: Stevie D ?

11:33:38 PM : Stevie D: You can refer to the name mentioned for any further reference.

11:33:52 PM : Explain The Fee: I need your Employee ID please

11:34:08 PM : Stevie D: Rest all I can share is that the $10 EVO Premium Data Plan is required with the purchase of the device.

11:34:19 PM : Stevie D: I am sorry however we cannot share any further details.

11:34:21 PM : Explain The Fee: I am sure there are several Stevie D's working for Sprint

11:34:45 PM : Explain The Fee: Please can you provide me any other information besides your name for reference purposes?

11:34:54 PM : Explain The Fee: Since you are indeed a supervisor and not an imposter

11:35:38 PM : Stevie D: If you have any additional feedback or comments it can be emailed to SprintCustomerAppreciation@sprint.com.

11:35:49 PM : Explain The Fee: Ok thank you Stevie D

11:36:23 PM : Explain The Fee: Please dont lie to your customers, hope this law suit will teach sprint something about customer satisfaction

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For the people upset about the fee...I only have one question. Why not get another phone? I'm not saying that any points that have been made about the marketing, training of the CSRs, real reasoning behind the fee, etc. are invalid or incorrect. All I'm saying is if you don't want to pay the fee, why not get another phone? If its because you really really really want the phone, shouldn't you be mad at HTC for agreeing to exclusivity with Sprint? I'm sure they could have put in a clause in the deal that restricted requirements of special price plans. If you want the phone because it has 4G service and you live in that market, shouldn't you be mad at the other carriers for not offering a competitive data service? And lets be honest, the plan still isn't that expensive. I like to look at the 2 year costs, since thats how long the contracts are. Lets compare to the iPhone, since thats what people do apparently, and I'm going with the iPhone 4 16 GB. The plan: 450 minutes, unlimited text and max data (unlimited/2GB depending on carrier). Lets also ignore the fact that Sprint has twice the 3G coverage of AT&T based on square mileage, and the Sprint plan includes navigation among other things the AT&T plan doesnt, because you cant generalize coverage across an entire nation and navigation isnt as important to some people as it is to others.

AT&T:
iPhone is $149 on contract. Plan is $39.99 for the 450 minutes, $25 for 2GB of data and $20 for text. That's $84.99/month for the plan. $84.99*24 + $199 for the phone = $2,188.76 over two years.

Sprint:
Evo is 199.99 on contract. Plan is $69.99 for 450 minutes, unlimited text and unlimited data. $10 for the Premium data. Lets throw in a SanDisk 16 GB micro SD card to even out the memory a bit at $108.99 (price from SanDisks site). $79.99*24 + $199.99 + $108.99 = $2,228.74 over two years

So...Thats a difference of $39.98 in favor of the iPhone over 2 years. That comes to 5.5 hours of work at the federal minimum wage OVER TWO YEARS to pay the difference. There are other phones out there, and other carriers out there. When it comes down to it, quit whining and get a different phone. You're an adult capable of making adult decisions and you have the ability to choose who you agree to do business with. All you people complaining about the going to the FCC or a class action lawsuit get over yourselves and pick a different phone. Its just like any other product in a capitalist economy...if you dont want to pay for it, go elsewhere, because there are other options for you.

Definitely something that can go to court with a good chance of winning.

After reading this article I decided to contact sprint as I am thinking of getting the phone, but do not live in a 4G area. This is the transcript of my conversation.

Reference Number: 754999530924336587

Your Sprint chat transcript


This is an automated email. Please do not respond to this email address as it does not accept incoming email.

Agent: Thank you for visiting Sprint. What questions can I answer for you today?
You: Hi kate,
Agent: Please wait while a secure chat connection is established.
Agent: Hello. I would be happy to stay with you and answer any questions if you’d like.
Agent: Let's move this chat and make it a window of its own. It will be out of the way and I can stay with you in case you have any questions or any concerns. Just click on the "Yes" button below and we can continue.
Agent: Thank you for moving the chat. Just to check, are you currently a Sprint customer?
You: Yes
Agent: That’s great to hear!
Agent: Would you like to upgrade your phone, add a new phone to share minutes, add a new phone and plan, or modify your services?
You: I am looking to possibly upgrade to the HTC Evo, and heard there was an additional $10 fee on top of the original data plan
Agent: We are experiencing a strong demand with the Sprint EVO 4G with our customers as it’s America's first 4G phone. We are working diligently with HTC to have the EVO 4G available as soon as possible.
You: ok
Agent: A $10 Premium Data add-on will apply allowing customers to take advantage of all that HTC EVO 4G can do.
You: will there be an additional $10 fee on top of my current data plan
Agent: That's right.
Agent: With EVO, the data capabilities are so rich, customers may lose themselves in endless surf. EVO users will typically consume more data, and the Premium Data Fee assures they have the bandwidth to do it.
You: what is this $10 bucks exactly for?
You: but don't I already have an unlimited data plan?
Agent: You will get unlimited data usage with HTC EVO with Premium Data add-on pack plus you will get more bandwidth required with HTC EVO.
You: more bandwidth as far as data limit or bandwidth speed
Agent: It refers to the bandwidth speed.
You: so my 3g will be faster with the HTC Evo
Agent: Yes, you are absolutely right.
You: so I will experience faster 3g speeds with the HTC Evo?
Agent: Absolutely!
Agent: The HTC EVO was designed to provide the best multimedia experience.
You: How does that work? how does it get the network packets faster then my touch diamond?
Agent: Key features include a 1GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon processor that will ensure a smooth and quick user experience.
Agent: The custom Web browser is optimized for HTC EVO 4G’s large display and Sprint 4G speeds to deliver a full, no-compromise Internet experience.
You: but how is that faster network speed, If I bought the phone, I have already paid for the processor, screen and other hardware features
Agent: Unfortunately, I don't have any further information about that. I would suggest you to contact our Technical Care Agent at 1-888-211-4727 to get more detailed information about that.
You: thank you
Agent: You're welcome.
Agent: Is there anything else I can help you with today?
You: No i think that helped, I will call the tech agent for further inquiry
Agent: Thank you for visiting www.sprint.com.
Agent: We value your opinion and would appreciate if you can take a moment to respond to a brief survey about your chat experience. Click Here To Start The Survey.
Agent: Please be sure to disable all your popup blockers before exiting the chat session to ensure you are able to participate.
Agent: Have a great weekend. Take care.
Agent: Agent ends cobrowse session

and thats another reason the new iphone will outsell this one.

If you go to sprint.com this is what you get when trying to buy HTC EVO...Sorry, this device is so hot we can’t keep it on our virtual shelves.

Check back later – more are on their way!. I can't believe how impatient people are or stupid for that matter. This is why I don't think sprint will get rid off this DAMN $10 fee for greatness. I want it too DAMN IT!!!!!

are u aware of the term class action law suit? i smell one here....

Yes, I would be happy if sprint charged the $10 package upfront on the evo 4g. Cuase that makes sense! It basically saying your buying an 4g phone and if to go to a location that has 4g you can use it. Hiding and explaining the fee as something it's not is just wrong.

We've solved the mystery I think. The 10$ is to subsidize the cost of the phone so they can sell it for 200$ and increase their 4G coverage.

Only problem is you are subsidizing it for everyone else to buy it at 200$ and you agree to pay 10$ for 2 years so you can enjoy the wonderful kick stand, screen, and processor and increase Sprints internet services!! WHOOPDEE DOO! Sounds like Sprint gets everything and you get.......... a phone.

The phone isn't that great. And in 2 years something will have replaced it. Or maybe Sprint will refund you the 10$ you paid out when they build enough towers to cover everyone with 4G....haha yeah right!

Thanks but no thanks Sprint. I'll keep my money and I'll decide where it gets spent and whats of value.

*cough* RIP OFF! *cough*

Sprint customer service is so stupid. They can just easily say that the the $10 premium is nessary for the HTC EVO because is uses so much data. That is it! End of story. There is no need for this circle of crappy marketing. I still think it's a good deal to pay $80 for unlimited data, text, and calls to any cell phone in the country. Stupid marketing, however; I'm still getting that awesome phone!

I went into a Sprint store last Monday and spoke with a CSR about the Evo 4G and she informed me that even though the Greater Metro Detroit Area did not currently have a 4G network that I was still required to pay the extra $10 charge. When I asked why she mentioned the same thing about being able to use all the "extra" features that the EVO 4G offered and even mentioned something about once I reached the data cap for the 4G that it would switch too the 3G. Just food for thought.

This reminds me what video game publishers do; they charge to "unlock" content that's already on the DVD. Except in this case, it's hardware.

Just tried to access the chat feature on sprint.com. It says its not available. Customer service probably refused to keep answering what the superfluous $10 charge was for.

Check out Sprint.com/Chat

Haha.... nice chats again. They really have no idea what they are talking about and Sprint is still telling them to feed us the same canned garbage.

I had 2 chat conversations with Sprint on 6/9/2010 and they did the same thing by pasting marketing speak into the chat session.

Sprint EVO Chat on 6/9/2010

Kate: Thank you for visiting Sprint. What questions can I answer for you today?

You: What the heck is "Premium Data" for $10?

Kate: This device provides a premium experience like no other and is truly second-to-none. Customers will enjoy unlimited 3G or 4G data with EVO!

You: But can't I get unlimited 3G with other phones?

You: And what do you mean by "Premium experience"? Free movies? Music?

You: We don't have 4G in our area and I doubt you'll roll it out within the next 5 years...way after this phone's life span.

Kate: With a 4.3” screen, Advanced Processor and an 8MP camcorder/camera; these features provide capabilities that were previously never available on a wireless device.

You: What does the camera have to do with the data plan?

You: Does it have a "Retina" display like the new iPhone?

Kate: I would suggest you to call our Technical Care on : 1-888-211-4727 to get this information.

You: Oh, I thought I was chatting with Sprint

You: Is this a marketing or out-sourcing facility?

You: So the "Simply Everything®" plan is really "Everything but Premium Data" Plan. ??

Kate: It is necessary to add data premium pack in order to take the advantage of HTC EVO.

You: So even you don't know what the "Premium Data" charge offers?

You: It's in my Cart but I can't check out without the "Premium Data" service. But I don't like paying $10 per month for something we don't know what it does.

You: Can your manager explain this monthly fee to me?

Kate: A $10 Premium Data add-on will apply allowing customers to take advantage of all that HTC EVO 4G can do.

You: That still doesn't tell me what it "can't" do without that feature.

You: Can you override that feature?

Kate: Unfortunately, we do not have this information. I would suggest you to call our Technical Care on:1-888-211-4727.

You: But I'm not a Sprint customer

You: Do you have a chat URL for Technical Care?

Kate: You can call on this number from any number as it is toll free.

You: So just so I can explain to Technical Care...you don't know what the "Premium Data" covers?

Kate: Unfortunately, we do not have the information.

You: OK, thanks.

Kate: You are welcome.

Kate: Is there anything else I can help you with today?

You: Nope, thanks...

*******************************************************
*******************************************************
*******************************************************

Another chat session later that same day

3:12:30 PM : Connected to sprint.ehosts.net

3:12:30 PM : Session ID: 426520

3:12:30 PM : Tom Curren: Initial Question/Comment: What is the premium data charge for the Evo?

3:12:30 PM : Please wait and the next available specialist will be with you shortly.

3:12:35 PM : You are next in queue...

3:12:40 PM : If you are chatting today for Technical Support, please call (888) 211-4727.

3:12:45 PM : Michelle A has joined this session!

3:12:45 PM : Connected with Michelle A. Your Reference Number for this chat session is 426520.

3:12:45 PM : Thank you for contacting Sprint. My name is Michelle A.

3:12:50 PM : Michelle A: Hello.

3:12:55 PM : Tom Curren: Hello

3:13:04 PM : Michelle A: How are you?

3:13:35 PM : Tom Curren: I would like to purchase the EVO but I'm unclear of the extra $10 per month charge for "Premium Data"

3:13:51 PM : Michelle A: Ok. Let me check.

3:15:11 PM : Michelle A: Thank you for waiting.

3:15:36 PM : Michelle A: $10 Premium Data plan:
Not a charge for 4G service.
For unlimited data usage while in 3G/4G Sprint network.
For the rich data experience that HTC EVO™ 4G provides whether in 3G or 4G Sprint network.

3:15:37 PM : Tom Curren: OK

3:15:57 PM : Tom Curren: Can you tell me what "rich data" is?

3:16:09 PM : Tom Curren: Free Netflix?

3:16:16 PM : Michelle A: One moment please.

3:16:24 PM : Tom Curren: I don't have 4G in my area

3:17:01 PM : Michelle A: Rich means very good kind of data.

3:17:38 PM : Michelle A: Its ok.

3:17:43 PM : Michelle A: $10 Premium Data Plan:
Not a charge for 4G service.
For unlimited data usage while in 3G/4G Sprint network.
For the rich data experience that HTC EVO™ 4G provides whether in 3G or 4G Sprint network.

3:18:08 PM : Michelle A: Sprint offers customers the best 3G network experience with the best price value, and where
available, the speed experience of 4G.

3:18:19 PM : Tom Curren: So "very good kind of data" is what?

3:18:45 PM : Tom Curren: ATT is the nations fasted network according to PC Mag

3:19:53 PM : Michelle A: This is system requirement if you want HTC EVO, you need to activate this pack.

3:20:13 PM : Michelle A: Rich data means faster data service.

3:21:05 PM : Tom Curren: I can only use 3G. If I get another phone will it be slower on 3G?

3:21:40 PM : Michelle A: No.

3:22:00 PM : Michelle A: However EVO is a terrific 3G device that works even faster when used on the Sprint 4G network

3:23:10 PM : Tom Curren: But I don't have 4G in my area...so why do I have to pay for 4G when you don't offer it? Is that even legal?

3:23:57 PM : Michelle A: $10 Premium Data Plan:
Not a charge for 4G service.
For unlimited data usage while in 3G/4G Sprint network.
For the rich data experience that HTC EVO™ 4G provides whether in 3G or 4G Sprint network.
Sprint offers customers the best 3G network experience with the best price value, and where
available, the speed experience of 4G.
HTC EVO 4G features are custom made for data-loving customers.
With a 4.3 inch display, watching a YouTube video, or your favorite show on Hulu has never been better. Just pop out the handy kickstand and watch videos on-the-go.
Personal productivity just doubled with two cameras – an 8.0 megapixel auto-focus camera with HD-capable video camcorder and a forward-facing 1.3 megapixel camera.
Adobe Flash technology ensures that rich Internet content, such as embedded video and animation, display the way they are meant to be seen.
These data-rich features are available to HTC EVO™ 4G customers regardless if they are in a 3G or 4G network. Plus faster data speeds if you live in or travel to one of the available 4G markets. Sprint 4G is expected to be available to up to 120 million people across the US by the end of 2010.

3:25:26 PM : Tom Curren: Is that full Flash or Flash Lite?

3:26:18 PM : Michelle A: Full Flash

3:26:47 PM : Tom Curren: I did not realize the current Android version support "Full Flash"...are you sure?

3:26:58 PM : Michelle A: Yes.

3:27:53 PM : Michelle A: It support full flash.

3:28:51 PM : Tom Curren: Can your verify that?

3:29:58 PM : Michelle A: You can keep this chat as a confirmation.

3:30:55 PM : Tom Curren: This chat is in no way a confirmation that the Evo currently support Flash 10.1

3:33:36 PM : Michelle A: HTC EVO™ 4G supports Flash Lite 4.

3:34:11 PM : Tom Curren: Thank you.

3:34:49 PM : Tom Curren: But we both have no idea what the "Premium Data" feature is other than an extra $10 per month.

3:37:55 PM : Michelle A: We are offering this plan to ensure that our customer won't get any problem to access all the feature included in HTC EVO.

3:40:11 PM : Michelle A: Is there anything else I can assist you with?

3:40:36 PM : Tom Curren: Nope...maybe someday someone at Sprint will explain that $10 charge...

3:41:22 PM : Michelle A: Sprint appreciates your relationship with us.

3:42:02 PM : Michelle A: I am sorry for the inconvenience.

3:42:17 PM : Michelle A: We value your business and appreciate the opportunity to chat with you. Please don't hesitate to contact us again at Sprint.

2.65GB for a 2 hour movie works out to 3Mb/s for real time viewing. Netflix would not provide such a high data rate to a mobile handset, a phone couldn't benefit from or possibly even process that much data on it's small screen, and the mobile networks today wouldn't keep up anyway. That's a joke. Also, AT&T's rates are 250MB and 2GB, not 250Mb and 2Gb. Since this Sprint employee doesn't know the difference, I suggest he be ignored.

Other carriers have surcharges for the privilege of using certain phones, though. It's dishonest but common.

A very interesting and frustrating conversation at the same time. I too have questioned the $10.00 fee again and again and have been given different answers and runaround stories each and every time. The nut-shell version of what I am being told is that the $10.00 fee is because the phone is "way cool" and does so much stuff. Let's set the record straight. I could go and buy an Apple Ipod and connect to Wifi and pretty much do everything this phone does and not pay a monthly fee/$10.00 extra add on. I whole heartedly disagree with Sprint "requiring" an everything plan and then slapping on another fee which unlocks "everything" when you are already required to have it. It just doesn't make sense and I think it is rather sad that Sprint made a huge leap with this phone and then loses their thunder by doing something stupid like adding this fee. Wake up Hesse!

admin,

I disagree with everything else that stan says, but have you got caught out by the b/B (bit/Byte) conversion in point 7? His figure of 2.65Gb is roughly equal to your 300MB.

KJR - He's actually incorrect. He stated 2Gb, but AT&T's plan is 2GB, which is 16Gb. Source- http://www.att.com/gen/press-r...

I have made a note in my original comment, but thank you for making me aware that I didn't note his error at first.

Simple no-bullshit $10 fee explanation: It's a surcharge to support the 4G infrastructure that the Evo is capable of using.

Your 4G Evo is just a fancy 3G phone if there is no 4G infrastructure. If you want that infrastructure then you'll need to cough up some dough so they can build it. Hence, the $10 fee.

[WORDPRESS HASHCASH] The poster sent us '0 which is not a hashcash value.

I think that most people could maybe accept that if Sprint came out and said this, but.. they've said time and time again that it's not for 4G! I'm simply asking Sprint to change the name of the fee or be honest with it's customers.

The reason that there is an extra $10 fee is that the Evo has built in wifi to connect any wifi enabled device to sprints 3g/4g network. although internet enabled cell phones have been "unlimited" for years as soon as you connect them to a pc there is a 5gb cap, but with the evo while connected to sprints 3g network the extra $10 gives you an UNLIMITED PC connection. That feature may not benificial to every evo owner that is the real reason. UNLIMITED 3G INTERNET NO MONTHLY CAP

That's a great answer.. except for the unlimited WiFi you must have their $29.99 WiFi add-on. The $10 does not "uncap" your data usage on the phone. There has never been a data cap of 5GB for the phone. Check out one of my earlier posts where I make this clear and show Sprint's terms of service.

Congrats on making it into digg's popular. I helped to get it there... Awesome response to the Stan S's weak arguments. Keep up the good work. I wish we had 4g or HSPA+ in Phoenix.

The 2.65GB sounds about right for a movie in HD. Even still AT&T has nothing to do with this, unless they're getting the Evo lol. If the fee made sense, it would have a simple explanation that only took 1 or 2 sentences. No one would have to list 7 other (not so relevant) facts to explain it. Keep in mind also that Youtube HQ doesn't work in 3G. The ONLY feature unique to the Evo that might cause it to use more data in a 3G area is the video chat. Otherwise, everything else the Evo is capable of, every other Sprint smartphone is also capable of. I don't mean to say that the Evo isnt' a great phone, but people need to get over the idea that it's so special, because it's really just taking a bunch of features from other phones (phones that don't incur extra "Premium Data" charges) and putting it in a similar package (HD2 to be more specific). Why then should the Evo cost more to use?

My thing is just that instead of Sprint saying "we think you might use a lot more data, please help us cover the costs", they're saying "Well this phone has a WICKED FAST PROCESSOR!!!111, please pay extra to use it!". Their explanation doesn't even make sense. That's where 90% of the beef with the fee is.

As a customer considering a purchase of an Evo vs an iPhone 4G, I can tell you right now that Sprint is pricing their phone out of the market. I hardly use voice calling during the day (at work) and I don't use text messaging, so here are the features I want:

- Cheapest voice plan
- Lots of data

AT&T prices this at $40 + $25 (yes... only 2 gigs now... sigh).

Sprint prices this at $70 + $10 EVO fee (unlimited data).

I don't know if I can use more than 2 GB in a month. AT&T claims that most users do not, I'm skeptical. Still, if I can keep my usage under 2 GB, the iPhone is $15 cheaper than the EVO every month. Sprint will mention stuff like text messaging, navigation, etc, etc, stuff that is "free" but I don't care about.

I think Sprint is pricing this phone out of the market. The iPhone is the best phone on the market (by public perception, not necessarily fact) and to price EVO higher is a mistake.

Hi. I am a Sprint Employee, but not a spokesperson. My statements are my own.

Unfortunately, the buzz about our $10 Premium Data fee gives the impression that we are charging a capricious fee for the HTC EVO phone, or Sprint 4G service. This is not the case. Sprint has partnered with Google, HTC, and various Premium Service providers to present a package of hardware, software, embedded premium services, and network features that work together to provide a unique package. As a result, you received the HTC EVO phone, Premium Data Services (like Qik video chat and YouTube HQ), Google Premium Services (like Leap, Friend Stream, Footprints, and Google Latitude), and HTC Premium Services (like Scenes, Visual Voicemail, enhanced Sense, and HTC weather). Each component of the HTC Evo package was enhanced to integrate with the other components, providing a richer data experience than has ever been available before.

Because the relationship of the packaged elements is synergistic, the Sprint Now network, both 3G and 4G adds value to the Premium Services and embedded applications. The Premium Services and embedded applications add value to the HTC Evo. We believe that HTC Evo customers will inherently use more data as a result, and the HTC Evo package has an intrinsic value that is worth much more than $10 per month.

Here are some other facts to consider:

1. Even with the $10 per month Premium Data Fee, Sprint pricing is significantly below our competitors. Our 3G/4G service costs up to $40 less than AT&T and Verizon’s 3G service. AT&T charges a phone fee for the iPhone, and Verizon charges a phone fee for all data-capable phones [smartphones].

2. The iPhone launch was announced June 4, 2007, with a price tag of $500 (4 GB) or $600 (8 GB) in the U.S. The HTC EVO is the first 4G phone on the planet and will cost only $199.99 plus tax after rebates.

3. The iPhone is proprietary. As a result, many applications can be developed, but their numbers are ultimately restricted, and application prices are higher than Open-Source offerings. Sprint offers Open Alliance development, as does Google. As a result, Premium Services providers can create software to transform, rather than attach. Over 100,000 applications have been created for Android, and that number is growing at a rate of about 5,000 applications per month. Many of the applications are free and the remaining applications are consistently and significantly lower priced than the iPhone.

4. You get more services and features for less money at Sprint.

5. Sprint has partnered with Google and various Premium Service providers to present a package of hardware, software, and network features that work together to provide a unique experience for our customers in the 3G and 4G Markets. This Package is of a much higher value that the $10 Premium Data Fee required.

6. The HTC EVO package with Wi-Fi Hot Spot saves even more for our customers. Rather than paying for a wireless routing device like the Sierra Overdrive ($199.99 after rebate), and then paying $59.99 plus taxes, and etcetera for the corresponding service plan, the HTC EVO combines the device and the service plan for just $29.99 plus taxes, surcharges, regulatory fees, and additional purchases.

7. AT&T recently announced Tiered Data Pricing at a harsh $15 for 200 Mb or $25 for 2 Gb. A Netflix feature length film is 2.65 Gb. As a result, you can watch three-fourths of a movie one-month and then use no additional data for emails, browsing, whatever, and then see the conclusion the following month.

1. Even with the $10 per month Premium Data Fee, Sprint pricing is significantly below our competitors. Our 3G/4G service costs up to $40 less than AT&T and Verizon’s 3G service. AT&T charges a phone fee for the iPhone, and Verizon charges a phone fee for all data-capable phones [smartphones].

2. The iPhone launch was announced June 4, 2007, with a price tag of $500 (4 GB) or $600 (8 GB) in the U.S. The HTC EVO is the first 4G phone on the planet and will cost only $199.99 plus tax after rebates.

3. The iPhone is proprietary. As a result, many applications can be developed, but their numbers are ultimately restricted, and application prices are higher than Open-Source offerings. Sprint offers Open Alliance development, as does Google. As a result, Premium Services providers can create software to transform, rather than attach. Over 100,000 applications have been created for Android, and that number is growing at a rate of about 5,000 applications per month. Many of the applications are free and the remaining applications are consistently and significantly lower priced than the iPhone.

4. You get more services and features for less money at Sprint.

5. Sprint has partnered with Google and various Premium Service providers to present a package of hardware, software, and network features that work together to provide a unique experience for our customers in the 3G and 4G Markets. This Package is of a much higher value that the $10 Premium Data Fee required.

6. The HTC EVO package with Wi-Fi Hot Spot saves even more for our customers. Rather than paying for a wireless routing device like the Sierra Overdrive ($199.99 after rebate), and then paying $59.99 plus taxes, and etcetera for the corresponding service plan, the HTC EVO combines the device and the service plan for just $29.99 plus taxes, surcharges, regulatory fees, and additional purchases.

7. AT&T recently announced Tiered Data Pricing at a harsh $15 for 200 Mb or $25 for 2 Gb. A Netflix feature length film is 2.65 Gb. As a result, you can watch three-fourths of a movie one-month and then use no additional data for emails, browsing, whatever, and then see the conclusion the following month.

I admire your attempt to come here and really try to feed me the usual corporate answer about this. To the average consumer, you might have really made them second guess this. But don't bring nonsense facts and illogical statements and think that I won't squash them.

But seriously, can you explain the fee?

I believe the majority of the online Sprint reps are overseas. They have very little training and usually resort to a conditioned response for any question. Anyways keep up the good work explainthefee.com, don't give up!

This is exactly what I knew was going to happen when they announced the $10 fee - the corporate heads that made the decision to enact the fee are in their offices and meeting rooms doing their regular job while the lower level employees are having to deliver the message, and possibly take the blame/look the fool for something they had no choice in. I'm willing to bet $100 that most (>70%) of Sprint employees (namely retail sales, 3rd party resellers, customer support, etc.) can't for the life of them figure out why someone should pay $10 extra a month for the Evo (for a wicked fast processor :-\ ). Now how can they be expected to *logically* explain that to customers who ask questions about it? I'm sure Loye C and Aaron B have their own opinions of the $10 fee, and they might even have a better explanation for it, but they're not allowed to stray outside the guidelines (wicked fast processor!!!) set for them by the corporate heads who busy *not* explaining the fee or directly dealing with customers that have questions about it.

The consumerist has given the issue and your site the attention it deserves. Ideally this begins to snowball while sales melt as consumers become hip to this. Def. front page material for your own site. Congrats!

http://consumerist.com/2010/06...

I'm one who tends to believe that the fee is really to capture the money they are losing on the low hardware price. If they came forth and admitted it was for that purpose I could accept that as I will never support the "premium data" notion. That said, I went to initiate a chat to get an answer as to whether or not the fee goes away after signing a new two year agreement. For people like me who keep their phones for 3-5 years, you will be facing an additional $120-$360 above the $240 in your first two years of service for hardware that will no longer be cutting edge. There is a chance that the kickstand may actually increase in value of course.

When I went to initiate the chat during normal business hours I received the following pop up. Perhaps routine, but I can't help but wish that it was down while they try to dream up new some new answer to explain the fee.
----------
Chat with us

If you have reached this message, it's either after business hours or our chat team is temporarily unavailable.
Please chat back later or click here for other ways you can contact us.
Click to see our normal hours of operation.

Click for Sprint Holiday Hours

Sorry String, this is total BS. Why charge me for the phone if the $10 is for the features of the phone. FCC needs to get invoiced in this one.

If it is for 4G, fine - But don't charge me. We don't have 4G in AZ. For the Phone, BS.

You know. I really dislike these phone companies spouting all this BS. I just emailed myself a chat log from TMobile where they said I could keep my existing plan (voice only) if I renewed my contract and got the HD2 and the "Customer Loyalty" rep tells me they'll actually tack on a $20 fee for data because data is "needed" for the HD2. In his own words, "Yes you can keep your existing plan, but we'll tack on a $20 fee for the data usage."

Funny how they force people to get a data plan and then complain about the network being overused.

That's all the rambling I have for today.

Would it help if they just gave the truth? Would it make people feel better about paying the $10 fee?

The truth is "We have to charge something for 4G internet access, and we cannot restrict it phone by phone, so we are making everyone that has an EVO pay the $10 for 4G internet in the off chance that they travel to or move to a place with 4G and use the service. It would just be too expensive to implement a method to turn 4G off and on in their accounts. It's more cost effective this way."

Happy? I didn't think so.
I live in a 4G area and guess what? No 4G access in the places I frequent. Sure, if I go a block in any direction and stay outside I get 4G, but not at school and not at home. Heck, home internet access is so limited I have to use WiFi, so I'm paying $10 extra a month to use my own home internet connection.

The fee is clearly a way to recoup the instant discount and rebate that is being offered. Over 24 months the fee equals $240. Subtract the $100 instant rebate and $150 mail in and Sprint has recovered all but $10 of rebate money back. But wait there was an activation fee of $37 so they actually made all the rebate money back plus $27.

Sneeky, sneeky. Come on Sprint we are not really that dunb are we?

I would recommend also asking them that if they are charging $10 a month to use the hardware features of the phone (1Ghz processor, 4.3" screen, etc) why are we paying $199.99 for the phone. Doesn't the $199.99 payment allow us to use the "awesome" features of the phone?

It seems to me that you pay for any "hardware features" when you buy the phone, or receive the phone subsidized.

The 10$ a month, in actuality, is part of the subsidized price of the phone.

So if you do the math and add 240$ for 2 years of 10$ fees to the $199.99 you pay for the phone you can see that what they are actually doing is using a trick to get you to buy a subsidized phone for $439.99 and making you think you are only paying $199.99.

I don't mind the $10 fee for possible 4G, but like many have said, "Sprint, please don't insult our intelligence."

> It makes it easier for them to charge more for data usage without having to offer more plans and confuse everyone (like at&t with the iPhone).

Yeah WCG - this isn't confusing _at_all_.

@Danny From NJ: to solve the issue of tethering for $29.99, you can easily root the phone and have tethering for FREE

Everybody is talking about the $10 extra which is insult to me anyway, but what nobody is talking about the $29.99 that I have to pay to use my phone with a laptop. My family plan if I go with Sprint $129.99+$19.99 for two HTC EVO +$19.99 Add a line for my daughter (no HTC EVO for her) + 59.98 fot the 2 HTC evo hotspot or tethering whatever they want to call it. so what are we talking about? 129.99+59.98+19.99+19.99=229.95 just a few dollars less than the competition. I am from Verizon and at least they do not lie to me on how they are screwing me up.

So if we don't get the evo then our 3g isnt fast. and if we do get it our 3g is fast and 4g faster? Is that what they are saying?

@Marc, I believe they will start charging a $10 dollar "premium data" on all future flagship phones. It's not just to subsidize the phone itself. I mean, what if you bought it and then sold it? Will you still be paying the 10 dollar fee? I sure hope not.

It seems like Sprint is making us pay for the phone, then the plan, then a magical "premium data" add-on to make the phone work with your plan.

"data-rich" I'm seeing some interesting words being pulled out of their @$$. Data can't be compared to fresh fruits and rotten fruits. Data is data.

regardless of our efforts, Sprint still managed to sell out the HTC EVO. Let's hope our efforts will deter them from requiring a "premium data" add on in future flagship phones.

I must turn myself in! I stole service from Sprint! I feel so ashamed!

I used the Processor, Screen and the Kickstand for a few days prior to activating ANY service with sprint. Plus, I use them all on WIFI service thats not provided by spring quite often now. I should have activated my service with them earlier!

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I think they are charging the $10 fee to subsidize the hardware. This phone should cost $650 outright or $400 on contract. The Samsung Intrepid and the HTC Touch Pro are both $449 off contract. This phone is at least $240 better than both of those phones. How can they charge $449 for the phone off contract and only $199 on contract? They tack on a $240 fee to use the phone and help subsidize the phone over 2 years. That way people will buy it because if it was $400 with the upgrade discount it wouldn't sell.

Just seems logical since they keep saying it is for the hardware features. I think it is shady but I still bought the phone and it is the best phone I have tried in a long long time and I have had them all.

LOL. I don't think they have any good reason for the $10 charge per month. They figured they can just make everyone pay and no one will care or notice. When I talked on the phone with Dan (not the CEO, some other guy who called me back when I emailed Dan@sprint.com), he pretty much said the exact same thing.

He said something similar to the following: The $10 feature is for the fast processor, larger screen, video conferencing and others which will make the phone use more data than other phones, therefore, the charge was added.

Just sucks that they can't justify the charge and just gives nonsense answers as to the charge.

Right now, I have the Nexus One and it also has a 1ghz processor (same as EVO), but i'm not paying extra to use the 1ghz processor. Sprint just needs to get rid off the charge and just be happy that they finally have a great phone that everyone wants.

That conversation was an epic win! Brilliant! You totally owned Sprint. I don't understand how they can go on being so contradictory of themselves. And people are actually paying for that foolishness. I'm going to try to get a similar response right now and I'll email it over to you.

Wow. Can't say I'm surprised here.

I'm fine with them charging $10 extra. It makes it easier for them to charge more for data usage without having to offer more plans and confuse everyone (like at&t with the iPhone). And they still managed to keep costs competitively low which is great. But what I am NOT fine with is how they approached and continue to deal with the situation. The charge is for data. That's why it's called a Premium Data Pack. We get it. But don't insult the public's intelligence by saying it's for the awesome hardware features of the phone when it simply isn't.

It must be terrible to work on the front lines for Sprint. Mindlessly forced to doll out some of the worst marketing speak that has ever been. I also asked these questions of a Sprint employee at a retail location and they looked pained and guilty at having to provide such illogical and transparent explanations of the $10 fee.

Sprint - You know that itch you keep feeling deep inside from this issue. Scratch it, do the right thing and put forth a justifiable explanation for the fee or remove it until such time as you can figure out how to separate out 3g from 4g services.

"The $10 fee is Sprints BP"