The "value" of unlimited data

[iphoneNOW]

OK I am what I would call a novice when it comes to smartphone data plans, etc. I am one of the "day 1" Iphone4 users who will be eligible for an upgrade on Oct. 7. I don't care that I'm not eligible on Sept 21 when the 5 is orderable, I can wait. But I do have a question about unlimited data. My choice when I do upgrade to the 5 is to use the upgrade discount and lose my "unlimited data plan" or pay full price and keep it. I'm wondering---in layman's terms--what is the value of unlimited data? Here is some context:  One of the apps I use alot when I run is the Tune-In app. It allows me to listen to online radio with a wider mix than what I have on my iphone. How much data does an app like this use, and does it put me into the group that would benefit by staying with an limited data plan?

Better yet, maybe someone can articulate again in layman's terms, what sort of iphone usage constitutes one being better off with an unlimited plan vs. a capped amount of data? Maybe someone can even give a brief description of what types of phone usages are typical under a current data plan amount (2G, 4G, 6G etc.)

Also, I understand that with the iphone5 being used in a 4GLTE environment, data usage will likely be higher. Anyone have a ballpark as to how much higher?

I apologize if these questions are a repeat of the same ole same ole many of you forum regulars get here, but obviously I am not a forum regular.

Thanks for your time and input! It is most greatly appreciated!

[rcschnoor]

You can go into your MyVerizon account and check your data usage for, I believe, the last 12 months. This should be a pretty accurate estimate of how much data you would use, unless of course, you intend on drastically changing how you use your phone.

[iphoneNOW]

Thanks RC. At quick glance it seems as if my usage isn't all that great, so I should be OK with switching to a capped plan, but I'll do a more robust review tonight. Thanks again.

[silver6056]

The hard part of doing the calculation is knowing how long you will be able to keep unlimited data.  Without a contract, in theory, there is no obligation for them to continue unlimited data, either at all or at the current price.

So, again, in theory,  they could discontinue it or price it at $500 per month as soon as your current contract expires (usually 4 months after you become eligible for upgrade).

In reality, to avoid a PR disaster, they would probably give a reasonable period of notice before stopping it, if they indeed decide to do so.  But you cannot be certain, when doing your calculations, that the extra initial cost if offset by 24 months of monthly savings.  Hopefully it will be, but we cannot be sure!

[gina7239]

I have unlimited data and from what said you will not lose your plan if you pay full retail.

The everything plan is 1 gig is $50 2gig is $60 I think. So if you did the new plan you would be paying at least $90 for unlimited minutes text and 1gig of data

[gina7239]

Even out of contract you can keep it. So the question I would ask is the iPhone/unlimited data worth paying full retail to keep your plan.

If you get a corporate discount you won't get as much of a discount. Tier plans are not available.

[rcschnoor]

Tiered plans are available if you currently have one or have unlimited data.