Phone Contract Confusion - Even Voicemail Varies!
I’m not stupid. But…
1. I should be able to compare mobile phone contacts and weigh up the benefits
2. Why are phone bills impossible to interpret?
3. I know 1 & 2 are done to confuse me and stop me asking questions, but why do we all put up with it?
The reason for this entry is that while I was trying to find out why I get cut off on some voicemail messages, I found that there quite a difference even in the basic voicemail service you are given on each major operator in the US.
The list is endless, but here are three ubiquitous features to compare:
AT&T
20 messages maximum
2 minute maximum per message
14-day retention
Verizon Wireless
20 messages maximum
3 minute maximum per message
21-day retention
T-Mobile
15 messages maximum
1 minute maximum per message
15-day retention
Sprint
20 messages maximum
2 minute maximum per message? (But I had to get this details from their forum)
20-day retention
Most offer a we’ll-nickle-and-dime-you upgrade for around $1.99 a month, but that’s pathetic!
Some of us rely heavily on voicemail and I’d have though it would be a commodity service, identical on each network. I would never even think to check out the specifics.
What else are we missing?
When you think of all the feature multiplied by all the plan variations multiplied by all the different handset capabilities, I’m surprised anyone ever buys a phone.
Is there a good comparison service out there?
According to many reports, Google will announce it’s plans for a more open partnership with a range of handset manufacturers and operators on Monday.
I’ve subscribed to the .mac service for three years and although some say it’s overpriced, the simplicity of it’s setup and integration on the mac makes it just compelling enough for me to dig deep and pay up.