AT&T's new DataConnect Pass plans serve up data a la carte

By Chris Ziegler

posted November 23rd 2009 1:50PM

AT&T is following Verizon's lead today with the introduction of new prepaid broadband plans targeted directly at netbook and laptop users who find themselves out of WiFi range (and in desperate need of email) every once in a while. The so-called DataConnect Pass plans exactly mirror Verizon's pricing, which means you can get 75MB as a "day pass" for $15, 250MB as a weekly deal for $30, or a half gig per month for $50. Like Verizon, you're far better off getting the 5GB postpaid plan if you're a heavy user here -- but if you find yourself needing wireless once in a blue moon, this may very well be the way to go. The packages are available now; follow the break for the full press release.

Show full PR text

AT&T DATACONNECT PASS^SM MAKES MOBILE DATA MORE FLEXIBLE, CONVENIENT ON NATION'S FASTEST 3G NETWORK

Pay-As-You-Need It Data Sessions Deliver Customized Data Experience On-The-Go

ATLANTA, Nov. 23, 2009 - It's the nation's fastest 3G network – and now – it's accessible to millions of mobile broadband customers on their own terms and their own time. For the first time, AT&T* today announced DataConnect Pass^SM– pay-as-you-need it data service with access to the nation's fastest 3G network – available by the day, by the week or by the month, using a laptop or netbook compatible with AT&T's wireless network.

Self-provisioned and accessible from any Internet connection, DataConnect Pass^SM offers multiple packages of mobile data perfect for travelers, vacationers or others on-the-go and in need of customized data access. By visiting www.att.com/buyasession, customers can purchase packages in advance for one day or one week or one month. Options include:

· DataConnect Day Pass (75 MB) – $15

· DataConnect Week Pass (250 MB) – $30

· DataConnect Month Pass (500 MB) – $50

"This is about choice and flexibility - giving our customers more ways to match their own data needs, on their own time and with their own budget," said Mark Collins, senior vice president-Voice and Data Products, AT&T Mobility and Consumer Markets. "We want our network to be open, accessible and useful in a way that accommodates unique customer needs. DataConnect Pass^SMis another way consumers can customize the AT&T experience."

Access On-The-Go.

Available with compatible AT&T-certified netbooks or laptop devices, the DataConnect Pass^SM is established using a previously un-activated SIM card, available at any AT&T retail location, credit or debit card and completed customer profile at www.att.com/buyasession. The site is accessible through any Internet connection; data service is available throughout AT&T's wireless network footprint. Customers simply insert their SIM card into the compatible laptop or netbook, connect to the Internet through an ethernet or Wi-Fi connection, launch www.att.com/buyasession, and follow the prompts.

First-time visitors will create a username and password, provide their SIM card and device serial number, complete the billing information and select their desired data plan. Once a session is purchased, data usage begins. As a helpful reminder, customers will also receive a text and email message once either 30 minutes or 20 percent of allotted data usage remains in their session. At that point, customers have the option to purchase more time or allow the session to expire.

For additional information, customers can visit www.att.com/buyasession. DataConnect Pass^SMis designed for AT&T network use only, providing service within the United States, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.

AT&T DataConnect Pass – can only be used on AT&T's wireless network and cannot be used on another carrier's network, either domestic or international. Requires laptop or netbook with aircard/connect card capable of working on AT&T's wireless network; internet access to sign-up; and a new SIM card. AT&T DataConnect Pass supports data usage only, and does not support SMS, MMS, or voice calls. Actual speed and coverage may vary. Time begins expiring immediately upon purchase, whether or not you are using the service. Once your time expires or the allotted megabytes are used, whichever occurs first, your data access will cease. AT&T may send alerts via SMS or email to notify you of usage and/or time remaining. These are courtesy alerts. There is no guarantee you will receive such alerts.