Sprint is ending its unlimited 4G data offering for customers who use mobile broadband devices like tablets, netbooks, USB cards or mobile hotspot devices. Smartphone customers are not subject to the change, which takes effect in November.
But, as recently announced, customers who also use their smartphones as a mobile hotspot will have data usage for that service limited to 5GB of 3G (third-generation wireless) service, as well as to 5GB of combined 3G/4G usage "dependent upon device capability." Additional data use above 5GB will cost 5 cents per MB.
Sprint's notice about the change is posted on one of its support Web pages, and customers who use Sprint's mobile broadband services are receiving direct notifications.
On the website, Sprint says:
If you have a mobile broadband device such as a tablet, netbook, notebook, USB card, connection card or Mobile Hotspot device, effective beginning with your next bill following notification, your on-network monthly data allowance will no longer include unlimited 4G.
The carrier had already capped 3G data use to 3 GB, 5 GB and 10 GB a month, but had continued to offer the unlimited 4G, or fourth-generation wireless, service, which is now becoming more widely available on Sprint's network.
Related stories:
- iPhone 4S shootout: AT&T vs. Sprint vs Verizon
- Is Sprint iPhone not sprinting?
- Sprint capping hotspot data plan at 5GB
- Are you overpaying for your data plan?
- Putting 4G to the speed test
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