Speaking with your wallet: An iPhone public service announcement
It's not news to most that the iPhone's release in Canada on July 11th will bring with it a pricetag which goes beyond just the purchase of hardware. Those who have been paying attention are aware that the only carrier for the iPhone in Canada is Rogers. Given that Rogers is the only wireless carrier capable of supporting the iPhone (GSM network), they have seen fit to raise the stakes.
Details:
Monthly data plans which not only have a cap (unlike AT&T or European carriers who have unlimited plans), but are priced starting at more than twice the rates in the US or Europe.
Contracts are locked in for 3 years, no exceptions. There will also be a specialized lock which will not allow you to unlock your phone should you decide to move to another country.
Thousands of people in Canada have already signed petitions which are being sent to Apple.
Let me be totally honest: I like the iPhone. It is a very satisfying piece of technology. In fact, I like Apple products in general. I am not boycotting the sale of the iPhone, I am boycotting having Rogers as the sole carrier, at the rates and with the restrictions they are advertising.
At this point, anyone who buys an iPhone is buying one as a status symbol. No smart, intelligent human being would buy one. Even if you can afford one (and the data plans), why would you support a company which is asking you to pay more than anywhere in the world for this phone?
On July 11th and beyond, speak with your wallet. If you honestly think you look cool and successful while carrying around an iPhone, think again. Anyone with half a brain will laugh at you for throwing your money in the trash.
PS. If you want competition in the wireless market, trying going outside of the Big 3 (Rogers, Bell, Telus). Virgin Mobile may not be Canadian, but they price competitively. Others are coming. Give them a chance.
EDIT: THE VOICES OF THE PEOPLE *DO* COUNT, AT LEAST TO APPLE (my newfound respect for Mr. Jobs and Apple)
Details:
Monthly data plans which not only have a cap (unlike AT&T or European carriers who have unlimited plans), but are priced starting at more than twice the rates in the US or Europe.
Contracts are locked in for 3 years, no exceptions. There will also be a specialized lock which will not allow you to unlock your phone should you decide to move to another country.
Thousands of people in Canada have already signed petitions which are being sent to Apple.
Let me be totally honest: I like the iPhone. It is a very satisfying piece of technology. In fact, I like Apple products in general. I am not boycotting the sale of the iPhone, I am boycotting having Rogers as the sole carrier, at the rates and with the restrictions they are advertising.
At this point, anyone who buys an iPhone is buying one as a status symbol. No smart, intelligent human being would buy one. Even if you can afford one (and the data plans), why would you support a company which is asking you to pay more than anywhere in the world for this phone?
On July 11th and beyond, speak with your wallet. If you honestly think you look cool and successful while carrying around an iPhone, think again. Anyone with half a brain will laugh at you for throwing your money in the trash.
PS. If you want competition in the wireless market, trying going outside of the Big 3 (Rogers, Bell, Telus). Virgin Mobile may not be Canadian, but they price competitively. Others are coming. Give them a chance.
EDIT: THE VOICES OF THE PEOPLE *DO* COUNT, AT LEAST TO APPLE (my newfound respect for Mr. Jobs and Apple)