Sprint rolled out shared data buckets stealing from Verizon’s naming template, but with more data
Sprint continues to tweak rate plans in an attempt to regain momentum in the market, with its latest move targeted at Verizon Wireless.
The carrier rolled out its “Better Choice Plans” targeting multiline accounts with shared data buckets sharing the sizing range launched by Verizon Wireless, though with larger data allotments in each bucket. The Sprint versions offer between two- and three-times more data per price point compared with those offered by Verizon Wireless.
The Sprint plans also include unlimited voice calling and text messaging while on the carrier’s network, the carrier’s Global Roaming service, unlimited text messaging from the U.S. to more than 180 countries and mobile hot spot service. Customers can also bolster their nonthrottled data allotments with an automatic data “buy-up option” at $15 per gigabyte, or just allow their data service speeds to be limited to 2G speeds should their purchased data bucket limit be reached.
Each smartphone line accessing a data bucket is priced at $45 for devices purchased with a device subsidy or $20 per line for devices purchased either outright or through a device payment plan. Tablets and mobile hot spots are charged $10 per month for access.
Verizon Wireless last summer altered its shared data buckets under labels of “S,” “M,” “L” and “XL.” The carrier a month later added an “XXL” size as well, which included 18 GB of shared data.
Sprint has been exceedingly busy over the past several weeks in terms of adjusting rate plans. The carrier last week adjusted its unlimited data plans, offering up to four lines of service with unlimited data, voice and messaging service at a lower price point than rivals.
The move was followed by another extension of its “50% off promotion” targeting customers from rival carriers Verizon Wireless, AT&T Mobility and T-Mobile US. That limited-time promotion was initially launched Nov. 20, before having its end date extended in early January and then earlier this week.
Sprint late last month reported a slowdown in customer growth for the final three months of 2015, with most of the impact coming from the carrier’s prepaid operations. The carrier has since bolstered rate plans from its prepaid Boost Mobile and Virgin Mobile USA brands.
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