Re: The Internet, ATT and the 3G iPhone

Madwen wrote:

> Then she told me that, while she did not yet know the price of the basic

> iPhone plan, that if we intended to use our iPhones to connect to the 
> internet that we would need to purchase a separate internet package for 
> each iPhone over and above the DSL package we already have in our home 
> and in addition to the cost of the iPhone plan with ATT.  The cost of 
> that, she said, would be $40/mo for each iPhone.  I asked if I'd then be

> able to connect to the internet anywhere in the US.  No, she said, only 
> certain locations.  She left me with the impression that you cannot 
> connect your iPhone to the internet *anywhere* without this separate 
> $40/mo plan.  I can't believe that would be correct.

The same thing is happening with sales staff everywhere. I suppose it's 
a result of all the cost cutting that the makeover geniuses have done 
over the last 20 years.

If you want to know anything now, you need to find it out for yourself. 
Most of the salespeople don't really understand what the internet is or 
the technicalities of cell networks, any more than someone working in 
your local burger bar (probably much less). All they have is a sheet 
they have to follow and a target for the month.

Telesales is an awful job, and I don't blame the people on the other end 
of the phone really. In this instance it's very unfortunate because the 
info you need can only be got authoritatively from the company (prices 
and what you get for the price). These are some of the most dishonest 
scam merchants on the planet, and they really don't want you asking 
questions, just to let them gouge you.

And we have no choice, they are all total crap. When it gets a little 
worse, hopefully there will be a backlash, provided most people haven't 
allowed their minds to be blanked entirely by the TV and other media.

Andy