Today Rogers Wireless formally announced their iPhone package rates. Set to be available July 11th, this is the newest 3G iPhone 2.0 for $199 for the 8GB or $299 for 16GB. Plans start at $60, and frankly, seem pretty decent all things considered, though I’m not keen on paying more on top of that for caller id functionality.
I wouldn’t consider myself an early adopter exactly. I tend to ride out technology to somewhere mid-life cycle to avoid the glitches and high costs normally associated with being the first kid on the block with the latest and greatest. And in some respects might even be considered a downright Luddite when it comes to really maximizing the features of my three year old Motorola Razr, but you know, it does what it’s supposed to really well.
I also really like the slim, sleek Razr, especially come summer when it slips into my shorts or shirt pocket and I can barely tell it’s there. Yet, I want (read: have to have) an iPhone. Admittedly, I’m a member of the Apple cult. I can’t imaging life without a Mac. We have them here and always buy Apple stuff when it’s time. I still don’t get why my parents have a PC, and it drives me crazy whenever I get asked to help them with it.
So, iPhone, why do I want you so? Well, I don’t like carrying three devices if I can help it, and you can replace my Nano as a music player. You’re also going to integrate seamlessly with my MacBook, iTunes and iPhoto. I like that. Warning: if you see me, I’m going to whip it out and start showing you pictures of my new daughter. So cute. Oh, and you are small, slim and not going to make people wonder if I’m carrying a phone in my pocket or just happy to see them.
Will I use all the features? Max out my data plan? Respond to emails and text messages any more responsively. Probably not. Will I line up at a store for my black 16GB. Not bloody likely. But, Rogers, I am coming your way. Sorry Telus.
UPDATE:
Okay, I actually analyzed what I am paying and getting from TELUS and what it will cost me for the same at Rogers, and admittedly, the pricing is not competitive. So much so that I’m going to wait until there is a better plan. Seems Apple feels the same way, and has not only diverted Canadian supplies of the 3G iPhone to Europe, but is also not going to sell then in Canadian Apple stores this Friday. Speculation is that Apple is pissed off that Rogers is gouging Canadian consumers. Read more here.
Posted by Ben Garfinkel
Tags: 3g iPhone, Rogers, Technology, We love
Jason Landry (June 28th, 2008)
I will be doing the same, but I will line up for it. Although, I think I’ll try to go through a Rogers store rather than the Apple store – it’s going to be a gong show on the 11th.
Kevin Broome (June 30th, 2008)
blind apple loyalty + canadians not know anything better = rogers ass raping us on the iphone and prolonging our 3rd world mobile standing
what part of the roger plan seems “pretty decent” to you?
http://ruinediphone.com/
Ben Garfinkel (July 2nd, 2008)
Hey Kevin. I was making a comment based on what I am currently paying TELUS for and for me, and I’m sure others, it will be a switch with little difference in monthly costs, hence my, “pretty decent” comment. It’s also a hell of a lot better than the surprises some people where getting with monthly bills over $1,000 with their hacked iPhones. Now, do I think Canadians are getting screwed by the mobile companies, both out of features, the best phones and with high costs relative to other countries? Absolutely. Do I object to getting nickeled and dimed to death for every little feature or use (even on my home TELUS line). You bet. Am I willing to give any of it up in protest? No.
Siong Chan (July 11th, 2008)
I would not mind paying $60 per month, as long as there are no additional hidden costs like the system access fee, no roaming charges, unlimited data (although I will most likely never to exceed 6gbs, I still want to use it without constantly wondering if I have exceeded the limit), and a much shorter contract, if at all. For now, I will just live with my Sony Ericsson and my iPod Touch.