Wednesday, January 09, 2008

Verizon Wireless Set to Raise Text Message Prices to 20 Cents.

Verizon Wireless began spreading the word today that it plans to raise its domestic text messages will be raised in March from 15 cents per message to 20 cents per message, in an effort to push purchases of the company's messaging bundles. 

The move to raise texting prices is similar to a move Sprint made three months ago. I myself am a Verizon customer, and I have the 250 text for 5 dollars plan on my own and my wife's phone, and was recently considering dropping the text package, as we really don't use what we're paying for already, but it appears Verizon is going to put the squeeze on customers who use very few messages, and may try to save a few bucks by paying per message, as they continue to raise message prices. 

In 2006, Verizon, along with most other major carriers, raised prices from 10 cents to 15 cents, and now we get yet another raise, making it even more difficult to figure out if bundled text or per message billing will be the better way to go. It will be interesting to see if other carriers, possibly smaller up and coming carriers begin to offer cheaper rates on texting in order to pull some customers from other carriers who are tired of basically being forced into buying packages, spending more, etc.

Monday, January 07, 2008

The Future Of Cell Phones

I always like thinking about the future of cell phones and wireless communications. I have had an interest in telecommunications for about 15 years now. It is increible the way technology changes the world. I remember going on the World Wide Web before AOL was around and lugging around a bulky Motorola DynaTAC phone.

Just a few years ago I wanted a "Smartphone" that would provide some of the punctions of my PC and work with Verizon Wireless. I ended up with something that was bulky, expensive ( MSRP $699), and rather disappointing. Now in 2008 you can find handsets that do a lot more for a lot less money. And they will actually fit in your pocket!

When I think of how much things have changed in a few short years, I always wonder what the future holds for wireless.