Owning a smartphone in America doesn't come cheap in comparison to other parts of the world like Europe. So if you are on AT&T, resign yourself with a sigh and be prepared to pay a little more for smartphone upgrade and activation. A "reliable source" told Droid Life that AT&T will be raising said fee from $20 to $25 on January 20. Tablet and wearable 2-year activation feels will remain at $45.
AT&T seems to be following after Verizon, which raised its $20 upgrade fee for device payment plans or full retail purchases to $30. At least AT&T's $5 increase comes off as cheaper.
The upgrade and activation fee is paid when you buy and activate a new smartphone, so you won't see those $25 on your bill until you buy a new phone. Hopefully, this is as expensive as the fee will get.
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