The news broke recently that German T-Mobile customers will be able to buy the iPhone 3G for 1 Euro in Germany, with one caveat. Those who wish to buy the iPhone at this ridiculously cheap price will have to sign up for T-Mobile Germany’s highest monthly data plan.
This tactic is a stark reminder of the telcos methods here in the US. They sell us subsidized phones in exchange for high monthly bills and long-term contracts. One factor of the European mobile market that I love is their departure from service agreements.
I’d urge Germans to not take the bait – if you can’t afford the full cost of an iPhone 3G, then don’t buy one. Don’t become tied down to ANY carrier just because they’re offering you cheap hardware.
(Flickr photo credit: rudolf)