can I use Verizon WIFI (not G3) for a new phone (Samsung Omnia) without purchasing a data plan?
Posted by admin in Omnia Pro on 03 8th, 2010 | 5 responses
Heres the deal.
1. I have to stay with Verizon.
2. I want internet on my phone.
3. I am in college and my campus is wireless.
Is there a way that I can buy a phone, like the Omnia or HTC Pro (any phone with “wifi”) but not pay for a data plan and still use wifi? I dont want to pay $30/month for G3 if my campus is wireless, but I want to be able to access internet on my phone. I dont care to get on the internet if there is no “wifi” points around…I only want to use it around my campus and places that have wifi, like a laptop. But from what I understand, I have to purchase a data plan. Is this true? Anyone have any input?
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Because the Ominia is a “Smartphone” you HAVE to pay the stupid $30, even if you only plan on using the Wi-Fi to access the internet.
Yes Verizon Wireless requires all smartphone users to have a $30 data plan…its stupid.
Im just going to give you my knowledge of phones here, im not sure about the network..
but usually, the data plan is only for things like 3G, GPRS, EDGE, WAP etc, but WIFI is different because the network would assume that you are paying to a data provider already. in this case your school is paying it. so therefore, i dont think you will need to pay for a data plan, no.
But please do check other answers before making a desision. im basing my answer on my knowledge of technology, your network may decide otherwise.
If you get a wifi phone, then you can use your campus’ wifi with no problem. That is what I do with my G1.
The data plan will just give you 3G/EDGE coverage (as well as hotspots) in many places, however you don’t need that if you only want to use wifi. You’ll just be restricted to internet use within wifi areas.
Also, be careful as to what sites you browse. Most likely your campus has numerous firewalls and site blockers in place, so certain things might be blocked (depending on your school).
EDIT: I forgot to mention, as stated above by other posters, that for certain phones you are required to get a data plan. Talk with your provider about what phones do and do not require a data plan.
You do not need the data plan for the phone but for your first month of service they strongly advise you to have the data plan just to see if you like it. After that CALL Verizon DO NOT go to the store they will say you need it at the store but if you call you will not need to. I called today and they said that you only need it for the blackberry series due to Verizon having a contract to them. So call and enjoy free WiFi!!! But if you due use the G3 or the ED network especially the G3 your bill will jump up $50-$100 due to the charge per MB on the Select Plan.