Page Plus has continued its recent surge in activity by increasing the data allotment in it’s “The 55” monthly service plan. The plan features unlimited voice and text messaging, but increases the total data from 300MB of data, to 500MB of data access for $55 a month. The plan does include automatic monthly renewal and MMS messages are deducted directly from the monthly data allowance, making this better suited for people who favor heavy text messaging and need unlimited voice.
This change makes Page Plus more competitive with competitors, who have been surging data as of late. Page Plus operates on Verizon’s CDMA/EVDO network, which charges significantly higher for wholesale 3G data rates than competitors Sprint, AT&T, and T-Mobile. As such, Page Plus has faced challenges in increasing its data allotments.
Page Plus’s key differentiator is that it takes advantage of Verizon Wireless’s Open Network and Open Device policies, by allowing all unsubsidized Verizon CDMA devices, though in an unsupported nature. This allows for a plethora of Android-powered smartphones that are typically relegated to postpay customers, combined with the cheapest unlimited voice and messaging access to Verizon’s pervasive coverage.
Verizon and Page Plus have recently come under fire for violating their own policies, and blocking iPhone from Page Plus, with no reason given. Such a blockage could breach Verizon’s testimony to the FCC, creating a legal quagmire for the pair of companies.
