Frequently Asked Questions
Posted by Brian - ExplainTheFee.com
1. What does Sprint say the $10 Premium Data fee is for?
This is a complex answer. Sprint.com's add-on page states the following:
This phone can do it all and then some. Because we've boosted your data experience with this phone's amazing services and features, you'll need this add-on. Enjoy:
- High-quality pics to snap and share with friends and family
- A wicked fast processor to make your apps run smoother and faster on our Sprint 3G and 4G network
- Top quality media experience with oversized screen, high resolution video and HD recording
They have also been quoted as saying the following:
With the HTC EVO 4G the data capabilities are so rich, customers may lose themselves in endless surfing. Users will typically consume more data due to the enhanced experience, and the Premium Data add-on assures they have the bandwidth to accomplish this. Mr. Hesse described the EVO experience like going from regular television to a High Definition television. Our 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 has never been better. You can just pop out the included kickstand and watch videos on-the-go.
In addition, we offer two cameras – an 8.0 megapixel auto-focus camera with HD-capable video camcorder as well as a forward-facing 1.3 megapixel camera. We want our customer to be able to enjoy these data-rich capabilities which does require a more complex data plan.
So, that last statement of "We want our customer to be able to enjoy these data-rich capabilities which does require a more complex data plan", means what? Does the fact that you have a 4.3" display, or a HD-capable video camcorder, or even a kickstand require a more complex data plan?
They have also made statements such as this:
For example, if you wanted road side assistance included with your plan there would be an additional fee of $4; therefore, if you opt to purchase the HTC EVO the premium data package would be an additional and required fee of $10.00.
So, they're comparing Premium Data to their other add-on's such as Road Side Assistance! This is what Road Side Assistance offers:
- Battery service — jump start a dead battery
- Tire service — with customer-provided inflated spare
- Lockout service — or, if entry can't be made, up to $50 in locksmith service
- Gas delivery — if you run out, enough fuel to reach the nearest service station
- Mechanical adjustments — minor adjustments may be made to make the vehicle operate
- Extrication/Winching — up to $100 in service if vehicle can be safely reached from a road
- Towing — free hookup plus tow back to service provider's facility, or up to 3 driving miles in any direction
Those seem to be things that the add-on provides. Tangible items. Using this comparison that was provided by Sprint would make you presume that the Premium Data add-on provides the items in it's description; The Wicked Fast processor, Oversized screen, and ability to take High Quality pictures.
Sprint's Public Relation Manager also is quoted as saying the following:
The $10 per month Premium Data add-on gives the user a richer data experience on HTC EVO 4G than ever before at both 3G and 4G speeds, taking advantage of features including an 8MP auto-focus camera with HD-capable video camcorder and front-facing 1.3MP camera, superfast Snapdragon processor so navigation on the phone is quicker and apps load faster, 4.3” touchscreen for a great multimedia experience and 3G/4G capability. The combination of features and services on the HTC EVO 4G provide capabilities that were never previously available on a wireless device so customers will have a better experience and higher data usage on both the Sprint 3G Network and Sprint 4G Network.
Again, we're told that the Premium Data add-on gives users a "richer data experience". As you can see, the quote also includes the hardware features of the phone.
This is from Sprint's playbook:
2. Can I buy the phone outright and not pay the fee?
No - even if you purchase the phone for FULL PRICE, you still are required to pay for this add-on.
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3. Is the fee for 4G?
No - this has been answered by several Sprint representatives. This is NOT associated with 4G service.
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4. What if I'm not in a 4G area, do I still need to pay?
Yes - see number 3.
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5. Do the Sprint "Everything" plans provide unlimited data?
Yes, they advertise their plan as including unlimited data.
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6. Is there any type of cap?
No - not on their phones, but there is a 5GB cap on data cards or USB modems.
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7. Who can I contact to complain?
Call Sprint and voice your concern: 1-800-927-2199
Sign the iPetition: http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/htc4g/
Post to Sprint's Wall: http://www.facebook.com/sprint
Email Sprint's CEO: dan@sprint.com.
You can also contact the following agencies:
Federal Trade Commission
Federal Communications Commission
BBB
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8. What questions can I ask Sprint?
Go here for all questions to ask Sprint!
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