Apple’s new toy is set for release in a few days. I won’t be getting one. Why? Because Vodafone’s data plans are crap.
| Plan | 250MB | 500MB | 1GB |
| 8GB iPhone | $549 | $449 | $199 |
| 16GB iPhone | $699 | $599 | $349 |
| Cost/month | $80 | $130 | $250 |
| over 2 years | $1920 | $3120 | $6000 |
| total 8GB | $2469 | $3569 | $6199 |
| total 16GB | $2619 | $3719 | $6349 |
I realise that Vodafone is subsidising the cost of the phone, but those data plans are horrible no matter what you think the phone is worth. Given that Vodafone offers data plans for non-iphone users, it might be better to buy a phone off-plan. The Broadband Everyday plan, comparably 1GB/month, is only $59.95/month. Over two years, that would cost $1438.80. Add an 8GB iphone for $979 or a 16GB model for $1129 and you’re sorted. No need to waste the extra $4500.
Actually, I think it’s more than about price for me. I think the phone is overly hyped. More gadget than I want or need. I’m more interested in what’s about to happen in the used-phone market.
