Sprint Framily Smartphone Plan Review
Sprint is playing catch up to the other 3 major wireless companies. The Framily Plan is an interesting Smartphone plan that can save you a ton of money. They merged with SoftBank of Japan in the middle of 2013 and are going through a metamorphoses, which includes this new promotion. The Framily Plan started in January of 2014 and is slated to expire 6/12/2014
In 2015 Sprint added a lease plan where you can pay $15 a month to get an entry level iPhone. At the end of 22 months, you have to return the phone or pay for it.
Important: As with any mobile wireless plan, you need to ensure you have coverage where you need it. Home, work, play, you need signal otherwise it does not matter what the price is. Check and compare coverage using Open Signal.
No Contract Smartphone Plan Alternative
Traditionally, smartphone buyers were able to purchase the latest smartphone at a significant discount, often at $199, when they committed to a new 2 year plan with a major wireless carrier like, AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile. Times have changed. There are many more options available to smartphone owners.
Consumers can choose no contract smartphone plans or traditional smartphone plan from one of the 4 major carriers. In a previous article, Find the Best No-Contract Smartphone Plans we examined the best way to save money: No contract smartphone plans, in this article we will examine the more traditional smartphone plan and help you pick the best one. The average consumer spends almost $150 on wireless each and every month. Families spend even more. We cannot do anything about the high cost of wireless taxes that are added onto your bill, but we can save you a significant amount of money. It is surprising that only 1-2% of subscribers switch to other carriers every year.
Smartphone Deals
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Posted by:
Google Pixel 6a 128GB 6.1" 5G Straight Talk Sale $99.00 + Free Shipping
($200.00)Lowest price in 30 days. Straight Talk has the new Google Pixel 6a 128GB 6.1" 5G Straight Talk Sale for $99.00, with Free Shipping. Offer ends Expires: 12/1/2023
- Great Value, no need to pay $700-$1000 for an expensive flagship phone!
- If your phone stopped getting monthly security updates, it is time for a new phone
It does not have all the latest bells and whistles but does the job at half the price of top of the line phones. No waterproofing, so use a good case. Review calls it a feature rich budget smartphone
Google Pixel phones get all the latest updates and do not have junkware installed. Comes with 5 years of Android OS and security updates] and the custom-built Titan M chip.
- New, unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan; unlocked smartphone works with T-Mobile, Sprint, AT&T, and other major carriers; not compatible with the Verizon 5G Ultra Wideband network
- Dual lenses: 12.2 Mpixel Wide, 12 MPixel Ultrawide camera
- 6GB RAM
- IP67 Water resistant
- 5G capable cell phone gives you an extra boost of speed[2] so you can download a movie in seconds,[3] enjoy smooth streaming in ultra clear HD, play games at home and on the go,[4] and even share your 5G speed with friends
- The all day battery can last up to 48 hours with Extreme Battery Saver[6]
- Your phone will automatically receive the latest OS and security updates for at least 3 years;[7] the custom-made Titan M chip helps secure the operating system and sensitive data, like passwords
- Take vibrant photos on your phone even in the dark with Night Sight, bring studio-quality light to your pictures of people with Portrait Light; and get more scenery and people in the shot with the rear-facing ultrawide lens
- Dual SIM (Single Nano SIM and eSIM)
Posted: November 29, 2023 6:59 AM PST
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Posted by:Expiring Today: iPhone SE 64GB (Gen 3) No Contract Sale $149.00 + Free Shipping
($379.00)Big Price drop. Walmart has an iPhone SE 64GB (Gen 3) No Contract Sale, $149.00, Free Shipping. Expires Soon. In several colors.
For Walmart Family Mobile. Plans from $24.88/month for 5GB Data - Unlimited talk/text
- iPhone 13 speed at less than half the price! Time to upgrade that old iPhone
Includes
- 64GB Apple iPhone SE Smartphone (3rd Generation)
- 5G Network Support
- 13Mpixel camera
Posted: November 27, 2023 11:59 PM PST
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Expiring Today: Mint Mobile $15/mon Unlimited Talk/Text/ 5GB Data + 5G Prepaid Plan + 3 months free $45.00 + Free Shipping
($120.00)Black Friday 3 months free. Mint Mobile has a Mint Mobile $15/mon Unlimited Talk/Text/ 5GB Data + 5G Prepaid Plan + 3 months free - valid for 3 months, for New Customers Only, from only $45.00 Free Shipping. Expires: 11/30/2023 - Highly Rated at 4.5 out of 5 stars. Normally $30/month for Unlimited data.
If you need shorter periods, try their sister company:
Ultra mobileNote: activation required within 45 days of purchase. To qualify for this offer, IMEI number and phone number cannot have been associated with a Mint Mobile plan within 90 days of activation
- Compatible with most unlocked GSM devices
- You can bring your own phone and leave your number as well.
- Redeemable for 4GB 4G LTE Internet nationwide
- Surf the Internet as much as you want.
- One size fits all
- This three-in-one SIM card comes in standard, micro, and nano sizes.
- Unlimited calling to Mexico and Canada
- Now you are free to call all of your distant relatives.
Sales tax in: Most States
Posted: November 27, 2023 11:59 PM PST
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- Compatible with most unlocked GSM devices
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Expiring Today: Anker 10000mAh USB Portable Charger Sale $15.39 + Free Shipping
($22.00)Amazon has the Anker 10000mAh USB Portable Charger Sale for $15.39 after checking instant coupon, with Free Shipping. In Black, other colors cost more. Highly rated at 4.5 out of 5 stars.
- The 20W USB-C port has enough power to charge an iPhone 12 to 50% in just 30 minutes. Also equipped with a 12W USB port if you need to charge a second device.
PowerIQ amp-adjustment technology intelligently identifies your device to deliver its fastest possible charge. High-speed-Charging Technology: Anker's exclusive PowerIQ and VoltageBoost combine to deliver the fastest possible charge for any device. Qualcomm.
Anker 10,000mAh Specifications
- Dual USB ports
- Input: 5V / 2A(max)
- Output: 5V / 3A(total)
- For iPhone 15/15 Plus/15 Pro/15 Pro Max, iPhone 14/13 Series, Samsung Galaxy
Posted: November 26, 2023 11:59 PM PST
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Posted by:Expiring Today: Up to $1000 off iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15Pro Max 5G - AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile
Time to switch to a better carrier with a new iPhone 15. Up to $1000 off iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15Pro Max 5G - AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile when you activate service and trade in select phones. Deals are way better than expected, time to upgrade and switch carriers. If you have anything older than an iPhone X, to time to upgrade. Shipping soon.
- iPhone 15 has 5G, better battery, better camera, satellite emergency, crash detection and more!
Trade-in Old iPhone or Android Phone
The best deals are when trading in an old phone. If you do not have one, you can buy one on eBay and save a ton. Buy a Samsung S20FE 5G in very good condition for $160 and get $830 trade in value on AT&T! Keep your old iPhone as a spare. Buying a used iPhone is more worrisome with many having replaced screen using 3rd parties.
Wireless companies are giving phones away in exchange for locking you in for bill credits each month.
Unlock your credit report if you locked it to pass credit checks.
Special iPhone 15 Promotions when you Switch
- AT&T - Get up to $1000 off iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max - up to $830 off iPhone 15/ iPhone 15 Plus with eligible trade-in when you purchase on an installment plan, with an eligible AT&T unlimited plan (speed restrictions apply)
- Verizon: Get up to $1000 off this device when you trade in. New line required. Plus $200 when you switch.
- Xfinity: Save up to $800 on iPhone 15 Pro with tradein
- T-Mobile: Get an iPhone 15 Pro ON US via 24 mo. bill credits when you trade in an eligible device on Go5G Next or Go5G Plus plan.
Some Older phones are available with less trade in. Trading in is a lot easier than selling your phone on eBay or Craigslist.
New iPhones 15:
- iPhone 15: Starts at $799 (128GB), $899 (256GB), $1099 (512GB)
- iPhone 15 Plus: Starts at $899 (128GB), $999 (256GB), $1099 (512GB)
- iPhone 15 Pro: Starts at $999 (128GB), $1,099 (256GB), $1,299 (512GB), $1499 (1TB)
- iPhone 15 Pro Max: Starts at $1,199 (256GB), $1,399 (512GB), $1599 (1TB)
The biggest changes: USB-C port (no more proprietary Lightning cables!), all models have top of the screen Dynamic Island, better low light cameras, and the iPhone 15 Pro/ Pro Max models now have the new and faster A17 pro chip that speed up all tasks.
AT&T Unlimited Starter Plan
- 1 Line $65/mon for Unlimited Talk, Text, Web, standard definition Streaming, Max 3Mbps data speed, 3GB Hotspot
- 5G Access
- Standard Mobile Security
- 5 lines for $150
- Plus tax & fees
- To qualify for $1000 credit, minimum Trade-In value must be $230 or higher after device condition questions have been answered
- Eligible devices:
- Apple iPhone: 12 Pro Max, 13, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max, 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
- Samsung Galaxy: Z Flip4, Z Fold4, S22 Ultra 5G, S23, S23+, S23 Ultra
- Google: 7 Pro
- Eligible devices:
- To qualify for $830 credit, minimum Trade-In value must be $130-$229 after device condition questions have been answered
- Eligible devices:
- Apple iPhone: 11, 11 Pro, iPhone 12mini, 11 Pro Max, 12, 12 Pro, 13 mini
- Samsung Galaxy: S20, S20 5G, S20 FE, S20 FE 5G, S20+, S20+ 5G, S20 Ultra 5G, Note20, Note20 5G, Note20 Ultra, Note20 Ultra 5G, S21 5G, S21+ 5G, S21 FE 5G, Fold, Fold 5G, Z Flip3 5G, S21 Ultra 5G, S22 5G, S22+ 5G, ZFold2 5G, Z Fold3 5G
- Google: Pixel 6 Pro, 7
- OTHER: OnePlus 10 Pro
- Eligible devices:
Verizon Unlimited Welcome Plan
- 1 Line $45 for Unlimited Talk, Text, Web, DVD Quality Streaming
- 5G Nationwide
- No Hotspot
- Plus tax & fees
Verizon Special Trade-in Offer: Monthly price reflects net monthly payment, after Apple instant trade-in credit at checkout, and Verizon monthly bill credits applied over 24 months. Customer must remain in the Verizon Device Payment Program for 24 months to receive the full benefit of the Verizon bill credits. Bill credits may take 1-2 bill cycles to appear. If it takes two cycles for bill credits to appear, you’ll see the credit for the first cycle on your second bill in addition to that month’s credit. Requires purchase and activation of a new iPhone 15 mini, iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Pro, or iPhone 15 Pro Max with the Verizon Device Payment Program at 0% APR for 24 months, subject to carrier credit qualification, and iPhone availability and limits.
T-Mobile Essentials Plan
- 1 line $60/month, Get 3rd line free
- Unlimited Talk Text and Web
- Unlimited 3G hotspot
- DVD quality streaming
Posted: November 25, 2023 12:59 AM PST
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Posted by:Google Pixel 7 128GB 5G Mint Mobile Sale $299.00 + Free Shipping
($899.00)Price drop. Google Pixel 7 128GB 5G Mint Mobile Sale $299.00 with Free Shipping. Expires: 12/1/2023, . Highly rated at 4.2 out of 5 stars.
Must buy: 5GB/month Data plan - Unlimited text/talk for 12 months for only $90. ($180)
- 1 color available
From landscapes to snowflakes, the powerful Pixel 7 Pro triple camera system adds drama and detail to all your photos and videos.
Google Pixel 7 Pro Specs:
- Google Tensor G2 Octa-Core
- 6.7" QHD+ Display Corning Gorilla Glass Victus (10-120Hz Smooth Display w/ LTPO)
- 8GB RAM Memory
- Triple camera (50MP+48MP+12MP) - 5x telephoto lens with 30x Super Res Zoom
- From 128GB of storage
- IP68 Water Resistance
- Wi-Fi 6E, BT 5.2, 4K video @ 30 fps, USB-C, Android 12
- Made with Recycled materials
- 5000 mAh Battery
Get hands-free help with Google Assistant, pair devices easily, and use Find My Device to locate your Pixel phone, Google Pixel Watch, or Pixel Buds
Cheaper little brother to the 7 Pro
Google Pixel 7 Specs:
- 6.3" FHD+ 90Hz OLED Display
- 8GB RAM
- Dual rear camera system
- 4355 mAh Battery
Sales tax in: Most States
Posted: November 23, 2023 11:59 PM PST
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Company Discounts
Some large companies have negotiated discounts with the large cell phone carriers. All you need is a company email address to obtain this discount. Check with your HR Department to see if your company qualifies. As an example, here is the AT&T Wireless Employee Discount page.
Monthly Wireless Data Usage
If you are a current smartphone user, check your bill to see how much data you use every month. Your new plan can be sized to your current usage patterns. According to Nielsen, the average person used 733MB of data in early 2013. Most people paid for a lot more, approximately 2GB. Over 1/3 of users used 50% or less of their data plan’s allotment. The wireless carriers force you to select data plans with specific limits, making it easy to over buy. (If you need 600MB, they might force you to purchase 1000MB) Keep in mind that most people are connected to Wi-Fi to perform data intensive operations.
If you are new to smartphones, consider these guidelines on monthly usage:
- Email, Social Networking, News, Web Browsing – 1GB per month
- Plus music streaming or downloading, sharing photos, download apps – 3GB per month
- Plus movies, video streaming – Unlimited per month
These are some rough figures to help you select the appropriate plan. Keep in mind that most unlimited plans slow down your data transfers to a snail’s pace, after you pass a preset limit.
AT&T has a Data calculator that helps you figure out your needs. Verizon and T-Mobile have one also. It is funny that they don’t agree when checking our data use.
Smartphone Deals
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Posted by:
Google Pixel 6a 128GB 6.1" 5G Straight Talk Sale $99.00 + Free Shipping
($200.00)Lowest price in 30 days. Straight Talk has the new Google Pixel 6a 128GB 6.1" 5G Straight Talk Sale for $99.00, with Free Shipping. Offer ends Expires: 12/1/2023
- Great Value, no need to pay $700-$1000 for an expensive flagship phone!
- If your phone stopped getting monthly security updates, it is time for a new phone
It does not have all the latest bells and whistles but does the job at half the price of top of the line phones. No waterproofing, so use a good case. Review calls it a feature rich budget smartphone
Google Pixel phones get all the latest updates and do not have junkware installed. Comes with 5 years of Android OS and security updates] and the custom-built Titan M chip.
- New, unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan; unlocked smartphone works with T-Mobile, Sprint, AT&T, and other major carriers; not compatible with the Verizon 5G Ultra Wideband network
- Dual lenses: 12.2 Mpixel Wide, 12 MPixel Ultrawide camera
- 6GB RAM
- IP67 Water resistant
- 5G capable cell phone gives you an extra boost of speed[2] so you can download a movie in seconds,[3] enjoy smooth streaming in ultra clear HD, play games at home and on the go,[4] and even share your 5G speed with friends
- The all day battery can last up to 48 hours with Extreme Battery Saver[6]
- Your phone will automatically receive the latest OS and security updates for at least 3 years;[7] the custom-made Titan M chip helps secure the operating system and sensitive data, like passwords
- Take vibrant photos on your phone even in the dark with Night Sight, bring studio-quality light to your pictures of people with Portrait Light; and get more scenery and people in the shot with the rear-facing ultrawide lens
- Dual SIM (Single Nano SIM and eSIM)
Posted: November 29, 2023 6:59 AM PST
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Expiring Today: iPhone SE 64GB (Gen 3) No Contract Sale $149.00 + Free Shipping
($379.00)Big Price drop. Walmart has an iPhone SE 64GB (Gen 3) No Contract Sale, $149.00, Free Shipping. Expires Soon. In several colors.
For Walmart Family Mobile. Plans from $24.88/month for 5GB Data - Unlimited talk/text
- iPhone 13 speed at less than half the price! Time to upgrade that old iPhone
Includes
- 64GB Apple iPhone SE Smartphone (3rd Generation)
- 5G Network Support
- 13Mpixel camera
Posted: November 27, 2023 11:59 PM PST
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Posted by:
Expiring Today: Anker 10000mAh USB Portable Charger Sale $15.39 + Free Shipping
($22.00)Amazon has the Anker 10000mAh USB Portable Charger Sale for $15.39 after checking instant coupon, with Free Shipping. In Black, other colors cost more. Highly rated at 4.5 out of 5 stars.
- The 20W USB-C port has enough power to charge an iPhone 12 to 50% in just 30 minutes. Also equipped with a 12W USB port if you need to charge a second device.
PowerIQ amp-adjustment technology intelligently identifies your device to deliver its fastest possible charge. High-speed-Charging Technology: Anker's exclusive PowerIQ and VoltageBoost combine to deliver the fastest possible charge for any device. Qualcomm.
Anker 10,000mAh Specifications
- Dual USB ports
- Input: 5V / 2A(max)
- Output: 5V / 3A(total)
- For iPhone 15/15 Plus/15 Pro/15 Pro Max, iPhone 14/13 Series, Samsung Galaxy
Posted: November 26, 2023 11:59 PM PST
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Expiring Today: Up to $1000 off iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15Pro Max 5G - AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile
Time to switch to a better carrier with a new iPhone 15. Up to $1000 off iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15Pro Max 5G - AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile when you activate service and trade in select phones. Deals are way better than expected, time to upgrade and switch carriers. If you have anything older than an iPhone X, to time to upgrade. Shipping soon.
- iPhone 15 has 5G, better battery, better camera, satellite emergency, crash detection and more!
Trade-in Old iPhone or Android Phone
The best deals are when trading in an old phone. If you do not have one, you can buy one on eBay and save a ton. Buy a Samsung S20FE 5G in very good condition for $160 and get $830 trade in value on AT&T! Keep your old iPhone as a spare. Buying a used iPhone is more worrisome with many having replaced screen using 3rd parties.
Wireless companies are giving phones away in exchange for locking you in for bill credits each month.
Unlock your credit report if you locked it to pass credit checks.
Special iPhone 15 Promotions when you Switch
- AT&T - Get up to $1000 off iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max - up to $830 off iPhone 15/ iPhone 15 Plus with eligible trade-in when you purchase on an installment plan, with an eligible AT&T unlimited plan (speed restrictions apply)
- Verizon: Get up to $1000 off this device when you trade in. New line required. Plus $200 when you switch.
- Xfinity: Save up to $800 on iPhone 15 Pro with tradein
- T-Mobile: Get an iPhone 15 Pro ON US via 24 mo. bill credits when you trade in an eligible device on Go5G Next or Go5G Plus plan.
Some Older phones are available with less trade in. Trading in is a lot easier than selling your phone on eBay or Craigslist.
New iPhones 15:
- iPhone 15: Starts at $799 (128GB), $899 (256GB), $1099 (512GB)
- iPhone 15 Plus: Starts at $899 (128GB), $999 (256GB), $1099 (512GB)
- iPhone 15 Pro: Starts at $999 (128GB), $1,099 (256GB), $1,299 (512GB), $1499 (1TB)
- iPhone 15 Pro Max: Starts at $1,199 (256GB), $1,399 (512GB), $1599 (1TB)
The biggest changes: USB-C port (no more proprietary Lightning cables!), all models have top of the screen Dynamic Island, better low light cameras, and the iPhone 15 Pro/ Pro Max models now have the new and faster A17 pro chip that speed up all tasks.
AT&T Unlimited Starter Plan
- 1 Line $65/mon for Unlimited Talk, Text, Web, standard definition Streaming, Max 3Mbps data speed, 3GB Hotspot
- 5G Access
- Standard Mobile Security
- 5 lines for $150
- Plus tax & fees
- To qualify for $1000 credit, minimum Trade-In value must be $230 or higher after device condition questions have been answered
- Eligible devices:
- Apple iPhone: 12 Pro Max, 13, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max, 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
- Samsung Galaxy: Z Flip4, Z Fold4, S22 Ultra 5G, S23, S23+, S23 Ultra
- Google: 7 Pro
- Eligible devices:
- To qualify for $830 credit, minimum Trade-In value must be $130-$229 after device condition questions have been answered
- Eligible devices:
- Apple iPhone: 11, 11 Pro, iPhone 12mini, 11 Pro Max, 12, 12 Pro, 13 mini
- Samsung Galaxy: S20, S20 5G, S20 FE, S20 FE 5G, S20+, S20+ 5G, S20 Ultra 5G, Note20, Note20 5G, Note20 Ultra, Note20 Ultra 5G, S21 5G, S21+ 5G, S21 FE 5G, Fold, Fold 5G, Z Flip3 5G, S21 Ultra 5G, S22 5G, S22+ 5G, ZFold2 5G, Z Fold3 5G
- Google: Pixel 6 Pro, 7
- OTHER: OnePlus 10 Pro
- Eligible devices:
Verizon Unlimited Welcome Plan
- 1 Line $45 for Unlimited Talk, Text, Web, DVD Quality Streaming
- 5G Nationwide
- No Hotspot
- Plus tax & fees
Verizon Special Trade-in Offer: Monthly price reflects net monthly payment, after Apple instant trade-in credit at checkout, and Verizon monthly bill credits applied over 24 months. Customer must remain in the Verizon Device Payment Program for 24 months to receive the full benefit of the Verizon bill credits. Bill credits may take 1-2 bill cycles to appear. If it takes two cycles for bill credits to appear, you’ll see the credit for the first cycle on your second bill in addition to that month’s credit. Requires purchase and activation of a new iPhone 15 mini, iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Pro, or iPhone 15 Pro Max with the Verizon Device Payment Program at 0% APR for 24 months, subject to carrier credit qualification, and iPhone availability and limits.
T-Mobile Essentials Plan
- 1 line $60/month, Get 3rd line free
- Unlimited Talk Text and Web
- Unlimited 3G hotspot
- DVD quality streaming
Posted: November 25, 2023 12:59 AM PST
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Posted by:
Google Pixel 7 128GB 5G Mint Mobile Sale $299.00 + Free Shipping
($899.00)Price drop. Google Pixel 7 128GB 5G Mint Mobile Sale $299.00 with Free Shipping. Expires: 12/1/2023, . Highly rated at 4.2 out of 5 stars.
Must buy: 5GB/month Data plan - Unlimited text/talk for 12 months for only $90. ($180)
- 1 color available
From landscapes to snowflakes, the powerful Pixel 7 Pro triple camera system adds drama and detail to all your photos and videos.
Google Pixel 7 Pro Specs:
- Google Tensor G2 Octa-Core
- 6.7" QHD+ Display Corning Gorilla Glass Victus (10-120Hz Smooth Display w/ LTPO)
- 8GB RAM Memory
- Triple camera (50MP+48MP+12MP) - 5x telephoto lens with 30x Super Res Zoom
- From 128GB of storage
- IP68 Water Resistance
- Wi-Fi 6E, BT 5.2, 4K video @ 30 fps, USB-C, Android 12
- Made with Recycled materials
- 5000 mAh Battery
Get hands-free help with Google Assistant, pair devices easily, and use Find My Device to locate your Pixel phone, Google Pixel Watch, or Pixel Buds
Cheaper little brother to the 7 Pro
Google Pixel 7 Specs:
- 6.3" FHD+ 90Hz OLED Display
- 8GB RAM
- Dual rear camera system
- 4355 mAh Battery
Sales tax in: Most States
Posted: November 23, 2023 11:59 PM PST
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Smartphone Hardware
Not every phone will be available on every network. You need to decide on the handset that you will be using. The first choice is Android or iOS, after that, most wireless carriers have the same popular smartphones. Shoppers need to understand that they will be stuck with the smartphone for 2 years. Saving $50 or $100 over a 2 year span, and getting stuck with an inferior phone is not very wise.
The major wireless companies attract shoppers with their promises of the latest smartphone for $199 or less. Instead of making consumers pay the full price of a smartphone up front ($400 - $800), they give the shopper a discount and make them pay more each month. You are making a 2 year commitment when you accept this initial discount. If you break the agreement, you will have to pay a hefty early termination fee. You can purchase the phone up front, but few people opt for this expensive arrangement.
Many carriers will charge a one time activation fee when you purchase a new smartphone. Look for sales where they waive this activation fee. Sales tax is charged at the time of sale based on the full price of the smartphone, not its actual selling price.
Does the carrier allow you to bring your own phone? Most of the ones that allow you to do this support GSM technology that is used by the AT&T and T-Mobile wireless networks. Those which run on Sprint or Verizon networks usually require you to buy a new smartphone. Consider this before you buy an unlocked or used phone off eBay or Craigslist.
Does the company have a good record of rolling out the latest and greatest hardware? After you finish your 2 year commitment, there will surely be a new phone that you lust for. Is there a good trade in policy or sell back program?
Mobile Insurance
The wireless companies are good selling you insurance on your smartphone. Because these mobile devices get damaged or lost frequently, they can charge from $7 to $10 a month based on your fear. A third party like SquareTrade will sell you an insurance policy for less. Only go this route if you have a history of mishaps with your smartphone.
Sprint is one of the underdogs in the smartphone race. In a recent comparison they ranked last among the major carriers. They are in the middle of being acquired, which should help them in the future. They market an Unlimited plan with no mention of throttling, but you will have to watch out for their off-network roaming usage limits. The off-network roaming usage allotment is small and can easily be used up in a few days. has several different plans making it very confusing to navigate their website. It is hard to recommend . Look at Boost Mobile, their prepaid division instead, if you must use their network. T-Mobile is priced in the same ballpark, and much more liked.
Sprint Framily Plan
They have a new Framily Plan where each additional line of service up to 10 lines, gets a lower price. If you're an existing Sprint customer and eligible for an upgrade, you can switch over to the Framily Plan. If you are not eligible, you pay an extra $15/mo/line until you are upgrade eligible.
- Up to 10 friends, families, or employees
- Unlimited talk, text, and 1GB data
- Separate bills - individuals are liable for their own bills only
- As low as $25/mo per line
- $36/line activation fee
- No annual service contract
- No early termination fee
- Each line can be customized with additional data
- Each Framily group will have its own unique Framily ID
- You can use a Sprint certified device (excludes Assurance Wireless, Boost and Virgin Mobile)
- You need to visit a Sprint store to set up a Framily ID.
- Groups cannot merge
- You can buy Smartphones with no money down
The monthly rate changes depending on how many people you have linked together. The price will go up as people drop out of the Framily, locking you in!
- $55/mo for 1 person
- $50/mo for 2 persons
- $45/mo for 3 persons
- $40/mo for 4 persons
- $35/mo for 5 persons
- $30/mo for 6 persons
- $25/mo for 7 - 10 persons
One Gigabyte of data is not very much. Add $10/month per line to get 3GB’s of data, add $20/month a line to get unlimited data and annual upgrade.
*We do not recommend getting shared data plans with less than 1GB-2GB per line as overages will occur more often.
Coverage - Fair to very good depending on your area. Check their coverage maps
Smartphone Selection – Very Good. From iPhones, Samsung Galaxy Note III, Galaxy S4 through basic Android smartphones.
Bring your device - You need to buy a phone or mobile hotspot from Sprint. Other GSM phones will not work. Some used Smartphones from eBay may work if they are not banned.
Sprint Framily is best when:
- You can assemble a group of 7 - 10 people
- All people in your Framily must have good Sprint coverage
- You can accept the limited Smartphone Selection
Conclusion
In conclusion, the consumer has a lot of control over cost with every Smartphone plan. You can switch carriers or Smartphones almost at any time. Review the details above + select the one that fits your needs. We recommend you take the time to understand your situation and pick the one best for you. Take Price, Coverage, Smartphone Selection, and monthly Bandwidth Allotment into consideration.
What do you think of the Sprint Framily Plan? Would you switch to it?
Tags: ATT Wireless, Carrier, Plans, Smartphone, T-Mobile, Verizon
Sprint will rip you off!!! They give you a free tablet to sign up for the Framily plan, but don’t tell you that you have to pay $30 per month for two years just to have that “free” tablet!!!
@maggie
What do you mean they “don’t tell you”? That information is out there and posted everywhere (including the paperwork you signed). Quit acting like a child and take responsibility for your actions.