Slashdot Mirror

← Back to Stories (view on slashdot.org)

Smartphones Invade the Prepaid Market

Posted by timothy on from the contracts-cost dept.

jfruh writes "When tech geeks debate the state of the smartphone world, they usually focus on the iPhone and its high-end Android rivals from the major carriers. But Android is rapidly entering the lower-end world of contractless prepaid phones that you can buy at 7-11 or Wal-Mart. 63 percent of prepaid phones sold in 2011 were smartphones, and while they might not offer cutting-edge hardware or easy customization, they do provide a smartphone experience without an onerous contract."

3 of 173 comments (clear)

  1. Can't wait.. by aero2600-5 · · Score: 5, Interesting

    As soon as my early termination fee is low enough, I'm shitcanning AT&T and getting a pre-paid android. Probably going to go with Virgin Mobile. I've had success with them in the past.

    --
    Please stop hurting America -- Jon Stewart
  2. My 3GS is prepaid with no onerous contract by enjar · · Score: 5, Informative

    Buy used 3GS for ~$150. Get GoPhone SIM. Insert in phone. Change APN if you want data. It takes three seconds.

    Prepaid smartphone. No onerous contract. No jailbreak required. Works fine with iTunes and App Store.

  3. Americans are forced in contracts? by i+ate+my+neighbour · · Score: 5, Insightful

    In actually free parts of the world, we can buy any smartphone without any contracts. Obviously, initial cost is higher but usually worth in the long run.