Is WiFi truly free with Verizon with no data plan?

F

Frankenstien

New member
I know there is a thread on here discussing this in part. Allow me to simplify my question.

If I purchase a Blackberry or Palm for example and have no data plan (currently I have an Envy with unlimited pic and texting) should WiFi still not be free from the provider (hot spot) to my cell phone?

You are not really going thru the Verizon network to be charged are you? Therefore, I don't understand why some say you are charged for kb usage. Is it not any different than if you take your PSP to a hot spot and access the internet you are not charged. Would a non-data plan cell phone not be the same thing in this situation?

Anyone know for sure?
 
Yes...it is free to use your phone when in a hotspot, if Wi-Fi enabled...BUT:

All phones that are capable of Wi-Fi with Verizon Wireless will require a data plan of usually $29.99 or higher. You cannot activate a PDA/Smartphone or Blackberry without the required data plan. This is a fairly new policy imposed by the FCC.
 
When you say you can't activate a PDA type without a plan can you clarify? I mean are you saying if will not work at all unless Verizon activates it?

I do not want a data plan at all due to the expense I can't justify it for my needs, however, I do want the organizer features and the possibility of browsing the internet in a hot spot if the phone is capable.

If the seller guarantees a clear ESN are you saying it is not as simple as getting Verizon to activate my calling plan and unlimited texting and pictures and tell them I do not want a data plan?
 
In order to have a PDA activated with Verizon Wireless, you must be willing to add their $29.99 or higher data plan on. The computer system will not allow the representative to active a phone that is a PDA/SMARTPHONE or Blackberry without a data plan.

It is required...no exceptions.
 
As far as the actually section code for where this appears, I am unaware of it.

I will have to investigate. I know it was mandated because all carriers now have plans to follow in Verizon's footsteps, not to mention the last meeting I had with Verizon Wireless before I moved to another company stated it would be required by the FCC (there was a section code on that paper though!).

I'll have to investigate it further. Try the FCC's website.
 
I have searched the FCC site. I am unable to find it.

I also do not use a Smartphone any more. I now have the Dare. (Thanks to complaining to the BBB) Great phone by the way.

I do have one question. The "rumored" requirement in 09 for full HTML browser phones to also have some sort of data plan (v-cast plan), will the Family Connect plan cover this "New" requirement/robbery?? Or will VZW do with this new requirement what they did for Smartphones and not honor a plan that includes a data feature and charge each phone in addition to the monthly plan???

Does anyone know??
 
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