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Consumer Cellular axes activation fees, retirees rejoice

Now here's a trend we can really get behind. Consumer Cellular, the "exclusive wireless provider for AARP members" (and a company that caters to the 50+ crowd), has announce that it will no longer be gouging charging its customers the dreaded activation fee. New and current customers looking to procure a phone qualify for the waiver and CC is extending the free activation offer to SIM-only patrons as well. Hopefully, this is the start of a grassroots movement in the wireless industry. The full press release is after the break.

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Consumer Cellular Announces Free Activation for All Phones and SIM Cards

New offering eliminates fee for service for both new and existing customers

PORTLAND, Ore.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Consumer Cellular (www.consumercellular.com), the number one rated cell phone service provider and exclusive wireless provider for AARP members, will now activate its cell phones and SIM cards free of charge for consumers. Both new and current customers will benefit, as the free activation will apply to both new, replacement and upgrade phone purchases. All customers will also receive free shipping in addition to the free activation.

The activation fee aligns with the company's philosophy of communicating to customers in a transparent and straightforward manner - clear, simple and an easy to understand policy.

"We're continually looking for ways to serve our customers better," said Consumer Cellular CEO John Marick. "We think this new offer, along with our straightforward approach in communicating it, will help mitigate confusion when activating service to a new phone or adding another one, and build upon our strong relationships with our customers."

The new pricing replaces Consumer Cellular's "free phone" offer, currently associated with the Motorola WX345. The net price for the consumer is the same whether they purchase at a retail location, via our website or our call centers. For more details, visit www.consumercellular.com.