My SGS phone app has this button to make a video call, and I'm totally curious about this functionality. I haven't seen anyone posting on the forums about it, and it's barely mentioned in the phone's user manual. Anyone successfully placed video calls with the default phone app?
Anyone know how it works -- what protocols/technologies?
Does it rely on your carrier having implemented something in order to work, or does it work over the internet?
Does it only work to other SGS phones, or can it work with other phones or video conferencing applications?
BTW, my SGS came from SingTel and is currently running JG1, but the option to make video calls was present in the original firmware, too.
if you are in USA or Canada, you can forget about it.
our networks currently does allow / provide that feature.
if you are in Europe or Asia, you should have no problem using it with another person that has the same feature on their phone.
there are 3rd party applications that uses Video Call of IP phone, google it
Just tried it, videocalled my girlfriend on her Nokia E52, worked splendidly
Hah Apple - videocall just other apple-people? Lame.
this sounds like functionality supported by carriers outside the US... (I'm in the US.) so I'm curious, how do you establish the call? Do you simply dial her regular mobile phone number and press the video call button and then everything else just works? in other words, no typing in IP addresses, no logging in to 3rd party services like Skype, nothing other than simply dialing a mobile phone number?
I can confirm that it works quite well. Most European carriers have been offering this feature for years (I could place video calls with my old Nokia N80 4 years ago), and sometimes they don't cost extra if you call a subscriber of the same carrier.
You just select video call instead of normal call, and if the other phone supports it you'll get video, as long as the other person chooses to enable it. I've tried a few calls with the SGS and I've been told that the quality of the received image is pretty good.
If the other phone doesn't support it, or is not under 3G cover you'll get a 'video call currently not possible' error.
darnap said it quite well
Remember trying in on my old N95 many years ago, but didn't see any real use for it
Yeah I had this on my NEC E313 phone like 5 years ago, curiously we somehow managed to do it over the phone network, on phones that are like pocket calculators now. I wonder if Steve really had to swallow his pride when he made such a big thing of it, and it only working over WiFi.
Like others I tried it a few years ago, simply dialing the number and choosing video call. However, the price of video calling was like 4, 5 or 6 times the price of a normal call(I forget the pricing, but it was quite a difference)... I've only used it like 3-4 times, and that was just for me or others to try it out. I don't know, nor have I heard of, anyone who uses it on a regular basis. It's just a "Ooh! Shiny feature! Must try it out" kinda thing. Gets old REAL fast imo.
Regards
my old HTC Athena can do it, i'm surprised Windows Mobile actually made that work
again it only works in Europe and Asia AFAIK, when i try it in America it doesn't do anything
America doesn't have video calling yet? Sheesh, even Austraila has had it for years! Although it costs almost a dollar a minute to use...
mstrandbo; said:
Just tried it, videocalled my girlfriend on her Nokia E52, worked splendidly
Hah Apple - videocall just other apple-people? Lame.
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Click to collapse
Be aware that Fring and Skype are fighting each other so they can't call each other.
Also iPhone 4 can video call any other phones such as SGS too, using applications such as Fring.
Actually, their video call method is way more superior to ours. They don't need cell minutes which means they can do video call even on an airplane. The performance is also superior. I wish some Android developers come up with a video call application using that protocol soon. I also like to see video call application using thus protocol on desktop computers.
wont be superior for long unless said person is grandfathered into an unlimited data plan. However, you could still video call with wifi when its available for no cost. I have to add that skype is coming to android later this year and apparently its going to be the best thing in video calling. I hope they deliver.
navmanyeah said:
America doesn't have video calling yet? Sheesh, even Austraila has had it for years! Although it costs almost a dollar a minute to use...
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yup! it sucks to live in America... we always get the oldest technology here... they dare to call themselves "1st" world countries...
for the past 10~20 years we've always had the junk phones from Europe/Asia basically anything that was new for you guys 5 years ago, is "new" in America.
it was not until iphone launched, that people realized all the stuff they've been missing.
I've been playing with smartphones 5~10 years before the iphone band wagon started, it's funny that people never realized that the features in iphone was looooooooong available on phones that were already available elsewhere in the world.
anyways Amen, finally carriers are starting to bring in the latest on smartphones to America
unfortunately like CARS, they are crippled to fit the "American's Needs" most Japanese import cars are crippled if you compare them to the same car made in Japan.
another example our SGS i9000 phones, the American version is crippled as well... sigh...
anyways.... i'll rather move to anywhere in Europe instead, unfortunately work are the cost of living are more expensive in the UK, maybe I should try Spain or Italy, or France
AllGamer said:
yup! it sucks to live in America... we always get the oldest technology here... they dare to call themselves "1st" world countries...
for the past 10~20 years we've always had the junk phones from Europe/Asia basically anything that was new for you guys 5 years ago, is "new" in America.
it was not until iphone launched, that people realized all the stuff they've been missing.
I've been playing with smartphones 5~10 years before the iphone band wagon started, it's funny that people never realized that the features in iphone was looooooooong available on phones that were already available elsewhere in the world.
anyways Amen, finally carriers are starting to bring in the latest on smartphones to America
unfortunately like CARS, they are crippled to fit the "American's Needs" most Japanese import cars are crippled if you compare them to the same car made in Japan.
another example our SGS i9000 phones, the American version is crippled as well... sigh...
anyways.... i'll rather move to anywhere in Europe instead, unfortunately work are the cost of living are more expensive in the UK, maybe I should try Spain or Italy, or France
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Click to collapse
Good Riddance.. .
eaglesteve said:
Be aware that Fring and Skype are fighting each other so they can't call each other.
Also iPhone 4 can video call any other phones such as SGS too, using applications such as Fring.
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Click to collapse
I know, my point was that with all other phones you don't need third party applications such as Fring.
mstrandbo said:
I know, my point was that with all other phones you don't need third party applications such as Fring.
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Click to collapse
Not true.
Everyone that you calls would have made their own decisions on whther they would use Skype or Fring. So if you want to call them, you have no choice but to also have to use the same third party applications such as Fring or whatever one which is compatible with the other party's. If you're really into video calls, I suspect you need to have every popular third party applications installed on your own phone.
What? No.. If I'd want to videocall any one of my friends that don't have an iPhone, we've wouldn't have needed any third party application such as Fring or Skype - that's my point.. If I were to videocall friends with iPhone 4, we'd have to use Fring/Skype.
This is at least as long we're here in Europe, where videocalls have been something "all" mobile phones and networks have had for years.
Your last sentence I'm agreeing fully with though.
The point is that videocalling is a basic UMTS feature, so you don't need any extra application to use it. Most UMTS phones support it out of the box as it is a standard, so they are all compatible across vendors and models. The iPhone (even the iPhone 4) is one of the few phones that lacks the UMTS video calling capability, so it needs a third party app to do it.
mstrandbo; said:
What? No.. If I'd want to videocall any one of my friends that don't have an iPhone, we've wouldn't have needed any third party application such as Fring or Skype - that's my point.. If I were to videocall friends with iPhone 4, we'd have to use Fring/Skype.
This is at least as long we're here in Europe, where videocalls have been something "all" mobile phones and networks have had for years.
Your last sentence I'm agreeing fully with though.
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Click to collapse
You're right here.
What do you think is the strategy behind selling the Tab with no voice capability? Make us buy two devices instead of one? I don't think that would work, the first carrier that decides to sell it with voice will get the whole market.
Is there some other reason I'm not seeing? Come to think of it, why am I buyng this thing from the phone company if it's not even a phone!?
I'm with Bell and the TV add clearly says "complete communications solution" and shows a guy in a phone call... but only when you get to to store do they tell you you can't actually make a phone call!
No hothead answers please and yes, I know you can flash the thing and make calls anyway...
davidke said:
What do you think is the strategy behind selling the Tab with no voice capability? Make us buy two devices instead of one?
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Click to collapse
Exactly.
A few of us has commented on this in other threads... and I come down on the thought that all of the carriers are now rolling out these data-only (or Mobile Broadband, webConnect, DataConnect, etc) monthly plans where the obvious intent is to lock customers into multiple contracts -- one for their phone and another for their tablet device -- i.e., it is a play for additional revenue.
I can't imagine how there wasn't collusion involved here by the US carriers... unless it was Samsung's strategy, but that seems rather ham-fisted, even for Samsung.
Forcing you buying the device with additional data plan to the one you have now for your smartphone, that's whats behind date.
Wont I just cancel the data plan on my current phone when I get the Tab?
I'll be giving them less money not more... Why would anyone get two data plans?
Well, had just been to the TMobile store today to sort some other things out.
Had a chat with the sales girl who at first said it was impossible to get phone calls, they were different to the Euro models. When I took out my Tab and made a phone call, she was suprised but I pointed out that it was crazy I could get voice on Tmobile, but not 3G, but AT&T could be hacked to enable both. I asked 'why would I want to keep 3 accounts (my phone, my tab, and GF's phone) on TMobile, when I can more them to AT&T and get the device working the way I wanted to.
She couldn't really come up with a reason but didn't try to BS me. Eventually she realised that it was mad buying a phone capable device that had the phone part removed, but understood why I'd be bringing it back in < 30 days to get a refund and go to AT&T.
Then, after all that, she admitted that I wasn't the first person in complaining about it.
Sheesh.
But yeah, at this time, it's Prisoner's Dilemma. If NO-ONE offers voice, they'll get away with it. As soon as one carrier in the US offers it, the rest will have to offer it.
Jyveafk said:
Well, had just been to the TMobile store today to sort some other things out.
Had a chat with the sales girl who at first said it was impossible to get phone calls, they were different to the Euro models. When I took out my Tab and made a phone call, she was suprised but I pointed out that it was crazy I could get voice on Tmobile, but not 3G, but AT&T could be hacked to enable both. I asked 'why would I want to keep 3 accounts (my phone, my tab, and GF's phone) on TMobile, when I can more them to AT&T and get the device working the way I wanted to.
She couldn't really come up with a reason but didn't try to BS me. Eventually she realised that it was mad buying a phone capable device that had the phone part removed, but understood why I'd be bringing it back in < 30 days to get a refund and go to AT&T.
Then, after all that, she admitted that I wasn't the first person in complaining about it.
Sheesh.
But yeah, at this time, it's Prisoner's Dilemma. If NO-ONE offers voice, they'll get away with it. As soon as one carrier in the US offers it, the rest will have to offer it.
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Click to collapse
Interesting I plan on doing the same but did she say anything about returning it with the modified firmware allowed?? But yeah I'm seriously trying to debate if I really like having my second phone as a access point just to access Internet with the tab , and going to AT&T now with no unlimited Internet would be a crappy option stupid AT&T
TurckBoatTruck said:
Exactly.
A few of us has commented on this in other threads... and I come down on the thought that all of the carriers are now rolling out these data-only (or Mobile Broadband, webConnect, DataConnect, etc) monthly plans where the obvious intent is to lock customers into multiple contracts -- one for their phone and another for their tablet device -- i.e., it is a play for additional revenue.
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Click to collapse
Well, the joke's on them because I've cancelled my smartphone line & using the hacked Skype app to handle all of my Google Voice calls over their 3G network for a cool $25 a month. Can't imagine Im alone.
Unfortunately for tmobile I am going to return mine and get one from att. Didn't know they offer non contract. And their data plan seems cheaper and I can enable voice...
Sent from my SGH-T849 using XDA App
My buddy who is a manager for AT&T said there were 2 reasons to cripple the tab... #1 - why have customers have a total solution when they can pay for 2. #2 - can't have it take any fame from the iPad. Come on, why would AT&T make a stupid move and take out mms on their tab?! As small as it is but still, didn't they learn their lesson with mms on the iPhone?? He said this was covered in training. Im sure other US carriers have the same think in mind... Minus tmobile for reason #2... I am rather surprised in tmobile as they have been Rollin out devices like nobodys business and meeting the community demand.
peestandingup said:
Well, the joke's on them because I've cancelled my smartphone line & using the hacked Skype app to handle all of my Google Voice calls over their 3G network for a cool $25 a month. Can't imagine Im alone.
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Click to collapse
I just signed for Axvoice unlimited international for just under $17/mo. and will be porting my cellular number to it. Now I can choose Simple Mobile or At&t for $60/mo for data only on the respective Tab and have simultaneous data and voip. I've been wanting to do this for a long time but now the plans and options make it possible .
peestandingup said:
Well, the joke's on them because I've cancelled my smartphone line & using the hacked Skype app to handle all of my Google Voice calls over their 3G network for a cool $25 a month. Can't imagine Im alone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agreed. I'm sure a ton of folks will simply move to a data-only voip solution... but then you have folks like me who can't deal w/ any voip lag and require a traditional voice solution (but then I'm just going to use an ATT reseller as I refuse to contract w/ ATT directly!).
TurckBoatTruck said:
Agreed. I'm sure a ton of folks will simply move to a data-only voip solution... but then you have folks like me who can't deal w/ any voip lag and require a traditional voice solution (but then I'm just going to use an ATT reseller as I refuse to contract w/ ATT directly!).
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Click to collapse
Tell her to keep quiet while you're talking, problem solved!
TurckBoatTruck said:
Agreed. I'm sure a ton of folks will simply move to a data-only voip solution... but then you have folks like me who can't deal w/ any voip lag and require a traditional voice solution (but then I'm just going to use an ATT reseller as I refuse to contract w/ ATT directly!).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I imagine it may not be a robust enough solution for a lot of folks, esp business types who need to talk on the phone a lot & need everything to be solid.
Fortunately for me, Im just a stay at home dad & dont talk on the phone that much. My wife & I mostly email/IM when she's at work, even when I had a smartphone. And the Skype/Google Voice combo works well enough when Im on the road to make/receive decent calls from random friends/family if I need that.
So for someone like me who uses much more data than voice, its pretty awesome that the US carriers actually didn't try to turn the Tab into a phone & charge extra for a voice plan.
Its possible to use the voip for the sprint g tab?
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
Ok, so here’s my story:
Not too long ago, I bought myself a Samsung Galaxy Tab 7”. Ever since the device was announced by Samsung, I thought this was one of the coolest ideas since sliced bread. I could have a device roughly the size of a small book that pretty much did everything the iPad could do, and then some (like take pictures and run flash). On top of that, it was capable of making and receiving phone calls and text messages. Finally, a device that literally would do EVERYTHING I needed; no more need to lug around a netbook, a phone, a GPS in my car, or an iPod.
Not all was as peachy as I would have hoped however. Initially, it didn’t look as though this wonderful piece of technology would make it to American soil at all. Then, when it did, it was deliberately crippled for the North American market so that its native ability to make or receive regular phone calls and text messages was disabled at the software level. What a terrible thing to do! I was so disappointed by this news that I nearly abandoned any desire to head down to my local AT&T store to buy it. To add insult to injury, the only way AT&T offered the Tab was on a no-contract pay-as-you-go data plan, which is ludicrously expensive, particularly when compared with the fact that I’m one of the lucky customers who is grandfathered in to an unlimited data plan.
Eventually, however, my desire to own this device got the better of me, so I finally dished out the cash (and it was not cheap either!) for an unlocked and unbranded Tab which had the phone calling and texting abilities right out of the box. I popped the SIM card from my AT&T smartphone into my new Tab, fired it up, and started enjoying what was, up until recently, the best mobile user experience I have ever known.
I started referring to my Tab as my “Do-Everything-Device,” because it literally DID do everything I needed right from one device! It replaced my netbook, my phone, my GPS, my iPod, my Kindle, and the CD player/Radio in my car! It was so liberating not to have a phone attached to my hip and a bag on my shoulder for everything else I used to have to lug around with me. Sure there were occasions where carrying around a phone the size of a small book would have been ridiculous, but that’s what swapping SIM cards is for right? I’d simply switch back to my smartphone when the situation called for it.
Then things took a turn for the worse when AT&T started getting involved… Apparently this kind of quality user experience was not meant to be. I had received an automated text message one day telling me that I needed to be on the “proper data plan,” and that if I weren’t my service could be changed or suspended. Being a loyal paying customer to AT&T in its various previous incarnations for about 11 years now, and having an unlimited data plan on my line (which I should note I was NOT abusing; I generally used about 4 – 5GB or so per billing cycle), I was perplexed as to why I would have been receiving that message. So I called into customer service to inquire.
Upon some minor investigation on the customer service rep’s part, I was informed that the issue was that I was swapping back and forth between my Galaxy Tab and my smartphone (which it may be noted is a Samsung Captivate), and that I should stop doing that. Stop swapping out my SIM card between two of my most used devices? Really? Doesn’t that defeat the purpose of having a SIM card in the first place? Still perplexed as to why this was an issue, I brought the matter to the attention of AT&T’s Office of the President to hopefully find some resolution to the problem. The gentleman I spoke with said he would investigate further and get back to me with his findings. A week later, get back to me he did! At first I thought, “Great! The highest level of customer service has come to bring me good news of a fair and reasonable compromise or resolution!” Little did I know he came to bear me bad news indeed…
The representative informed me that the issue wasn’t that I was swapping my SIM card per se, but rather the issue was with my Galaxy Tab specifically. Basically, I was told that AT&T’s intended use for the Galaxy Tab, regardless of where it was purchased, and regardless of whether it was carrier locked or unlocked or any of that, was that it was to be used as a data-only device, and furthermore as a pay-as-you-go data only device! I was basically given the option to get a pay-as-you-go SIM and use my Tab as AT&T intended it to be used (not as Samsung intended), or not use it at all, sorry. I was directed to the service agreement for “Specified Device Session-Based Plans.”
Excuse me? Sorry, but I don’t want to pay-as-I-go for data! I’m already paying for unlimited data, and there is nothing in those terms of service that say I can’t put my SIM card in whatever device I want, provided I’m not violating those terms! The representative proceeded to tell me that a user such as myself only accounted for a minority of the people subscribed, and that the current data plans AT&T offers caters to the majority. Ok, fine, cater to the majority. I get that. However, even as a lucky customer who has an unlimited data package, and even as a minority who chooses to stay informed about the latest technology, I should still be catered to as well. I mean, that’s what customer service is right? Making sure your customers’ needs are catered to? He said that the reason AT&T doesn’t still offer unlimited data is that “The average user only consumes about 2 or less GB a month.” Sure, that may be true for the average user currently, and it may be true furthermore for the average user who cares more about phones calls, text messages and Facebook updates more than frequently browsing rich web content and going to Youtube on their phone etc. However, with the much faster networks that are being deployed, and with more data intensive and media rich web content available today and tomorrow, that 2GB is going to be a bite-sized portion to the “average user” very shortly…
In my frustration, I argued that I am paying for the service to the SIM, not service to the device itself (otherwise what’s the point of the SIM in the first place?). As such, there shouldn’t be any issue with my circumventing AT&T’s artificial limitations on their branded Galaxy Tab’s hardware by buying directly from the manufacturer at a premium. I should be able to use my SIM in any device of my choosing, so long as I’m not violating the terms of service to that line, which I’m not (as I mentioned earlier, there was nothing in the Terms of Service that explicitly said I couldn’t use my SIM card in a tablet device.) Furthermore, I argued that the only real differences between the hardware in my Tab and the hardware in my Captivate were screen size, battery size, and the presence or absence of a front camera. For all the times I was told “Yes sir, I understand,” it really didn’t seem like he really understood…
It seems AT&T (and indeed any other US carrier which supplies a crippled Tab, or any other device) doesn’t want you to have a “Do Everything Device.” It’s bad for business! Why would they support a device that does everything your tablet or netbook does and everything your smartphone does, all on your single line subscription? Of course they’re going to cripple the Tab, because they want you to buy separate devices with separate line subscriptions and more money in their pockets! Not to mention, AT&T probably doesn’t want something that would have, up until recently, directly competed with the iPad, and frankly outdone it in some ways (when’s the last time you could make carrier phone calls, not SIP or VoIP, and text message on your iPad right out of the box?). I suppose that’s corporate America for you… What ever happened to providing superior service at the best value though?
So, if you are on AT&T, and you own a Galaxy Tab or are interested in getting one (or any other tablet on AT&T for that matter), here are some things to watch out for and speak out to:
AT&T is sweeping their network for devices by their IMEI, and if your device does not match up to whatever plan they want you to be on based on that device, your service could be changed or suspended.
If you have a grandfathered unlimited data plan, AT&T is doing the best they can to get you OFF of that plan by being very specific about what devices can be used with those plans.
I am only one person, and as one person, my voice has fallen upon the deaf ears of a very large company. As such, I urge you to speak out as a collective to AT&T, tell them about this situation, and others which likewise are upsetting to you as a customer. AT&T can ignore one person, but not a crowd…
Don’t contact customer service. Go straight to the source! Call AT&T’s office of the president at 866-751-5784 (option 1). Also, speak out on their Facebook page. Talk to your friends and family, spread the word!
EDIT: Here's a petition to sign.
honestly what is the point? i feel sorry for you americans - if the tmobile at&t merge goes through then there will only be 1 GSM carrier (i may be wrong) in the US and the rest will be CDMA - and that means that all the foreign visitors will be on 1 bad network.
The problem with any network "merger" is that you always get the lowest common denominator.
Up to the end of last year, I was on T-Mobile UK, but when my contract came up I left and went to Three. Retentions called and asked why I was leaving, and I explained that Three had a truly unlimited data plan and TMo UK had a 3GB FUP (which was pretty good to be fair).
The CS Rep swore blind that TMo UK would never do anything to uphold the FUP, but I stood my ground and left anyway because I *knew* that the merger with Orange could only ever end up with their plans becoming roughly analogous.
True to form, less than 1 month later, TMo UK reduced their "download" allowance to 500MB bringing them roughly in line with their sister brand, Orange.
Regards,
Dave
There are others, see this thread (if you haven't already).
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1000921 (I have a post in there.)
FTR, I'm using AT&T SGT as a phone and data device, just not using 3G (or mythical 4G for that matter) data. You can't swing a dead cat w/out hitting a wireless AP so why hassle with AT&T over their expensive, slow 3G (if you're lucky) connections/data.
I hated AT&T so bad I dumped them years back and went Cingular. Well, I guess they wanted me back so bad...they went and bought Cingular
Thanks for the contact info. I'll rattle the cage.
Thanks for sharing, you have taken this a great leap farther then I have.
I love your justifications, definately will call tomorrow, more people that call, better chance of a change ( I can dream).
Again, I say what about some kind of class action for this, Maybe we should get a bounty going. I would give $100.00 towards the suit. And if more is needed, I would contribute.
Timtown said:
There are others, see this thread (if you haven't already).
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1000921 (I have a post in there.)
FTR, I'm using AT&T SGT as a phone and data device, just not using 3G (or mythical 4G for that matter) data. You can't swing a dead cat w/out hitting a wireless AP so why hassle with AT&T over their expensive, slow 3G (if you're lucky) connections/data.
I hated AT&T so bad I dumped them years back and went Cingular. Well, I guess they wanted me back so bad...they went and bought Cingular
Thanks for the contact info. I'll rattle the cage.
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Click to collapse
Att 3g data is slow? LOLWUT. Have a look at Verizon's 3g speeds.
-Sent from my Galaxy Tab
And to the OP, I just ordered a new phone today from att. They did not once attempt to get me off of my unlimited data plan.
-Sent from my Galaxy Tab
lockheedload said:
And to the OP, I just ordered a new phone today from att. They did not once attempt to get me off of my unlimited data plan.
-Sent from my Galaxy Tab
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The issue (at least for the moment) isn't so much that AT&T will take away your unlimited data plan or not (although that WOULD be an annoyance), the issue is that AT&T doesn't want us using our Galaxy Tab's as phone devices, because that's not how THEY intended it to be used. AT&T would rather we have two SIM cards. One for a tablet device, and one for a phone device; not one SIM card for one device that just "does it all."
If they're artificially crippling the native capabilities of a device in order to force consumers into buying multiple devices to make up for those limitations, then they're price gouging, plain and simple.
Jade Eyed Wolf said:
Ok, so here’s my story:
Not too long ago, I bought myself a Samsung Galaxy Tab 7”. Ever since the device was announced by Samsung, I thought this was one of the coolest ideas since sliced bread. I could have a device roughly the size of a small book that pretty much did everything the iPad could do, and then some (like take pictures and run flash). On top of that, it was capable of making and receiving phone calls and text messages. Finally, a device that literally would do EVERYTHING I needed; no more need to lug around a netbook, a phone, a GPS in my car, or an iPod.
Not all was as peachy as I would have hoped however. Initially, it didn’t look as though this wonderful piece of technology would make it to American soil at all. Then, when it did, it was deliberately crippled for the North American market so that its native ability to make or receive regular phone calls and text messages was disabled at the software level. What a terrible thing to do! I was so disappointed by this news that I nearly abandoned any desire to head down to my local AT&T store to buy it. To add insult to injury, the only way AT&T offered the Tab was on a no-contract pay-as-you-go data plan, which is ludicrously expensive, particularly when compared with the fact that I’m one of the lucky customers who is grandfathered in to an unlimited data plan.
Eventually, however, my desire to own this device got the better of me, so I finally dished out the cash (and it was not cheap either!) for an unlocked and unbranded Tab which had the phone calling and texting abilities right out of the box. I popped the SIM card from my AT&T smartphone into my new Tab, fired it up, and started enjoying what was, up until recently, the best mobile user experience I have ever known.
I started referring to my Tab as my “Do-Everything-Device,” because it literally DID do everything I needed right from one device! It replaced my netbook, my phone, my GPS, my iPod, my Kindle, and the CD player/Radio in my car! It was so liberating not to have a phone attached to my hip and a bag on my shoulder for everything else I used to have to lug around with me. Sure there were occasions where carrying around a phone the size of a small book would have been ridiculous, but that’s what swapping SIM cards is for right? I’d simply switch back to my smartphone when the situation called for it.
Then things took a turn for the worse when AT&T started getting involved… Apparently this kind of quality user experience was not meant to be. I had received an automated text message one day telling me that I needed to be on the “proper data plan,” and that if I weren’t my service could be changed or suspended. Being a loyal paying customer to AT&T in its various previous incarnations for about 11 years now, and having an unlimited data plan on my line (which I should note I was NOT abusing; I generally used about 4 – 5GB or so per billing cycle), I was perplexed as to why I would have been receiving that message. So I called into customer service to inquire.
Upon some minor investigation on the customer service rep’s part, I was informed that the issue was that I was swapping back and forth between my Galaxy Tab and my smartphone (which it may be noted is a Samsung Captivate), and that I should stop doing that. Stop swapping out my SIM card between two of my most used devices? Really? Doesn’t that defeat the purpose of having a SIM card in the first place? Still perplexed as to why this was an issue, I brought the matter to the attention of AT&T’s Office of the President to hopefully find some resolution to the problem. The gentleman I spoke with said he would investigate further and get back to me with his findings. A week later, get back to me he did! At first I thought, “Great! The highest level of customer service has come to bring me good news of a fair and reasonable compromise or resolution!” Little did I know he came to bear me bad news indeed…
The representative informed me that the issue wasn’t that I was swapping my SIM card per se, but rather the issue was with my Galaxy Tab specifically. Basically, I was told that AT&T’s intended use for the Galaxy Tab, regardless of where it was purchased, and regardless of whether it was carrier locked or unlocked or any of that, was that it was to be used as a data-only device, and furthermore as a pay-as-you-go data only device! I was basically given the option to get a pay-as-you-go SIM and use my Tab as AT&T intended it to be used (not as Samsung intended), or not use it at all, sorry. I was directed to the service agreement for “Specified Device Session-Based Plans.”
Excuse me? Sorry, but I don’t want to pay-as-I-go for data! I’m already paying for unlimited data, and there is nothing in those terms of service that say I can’t put my SIM card in whatever device I want, provided I’m not violating those terms! The representative proceeded to tell me that a user such as myself only accounted for a minority of the people subscribed, and that the current data plans AT&T offers caters to the majority. Ok, fine, cater to the majority. I get that. However, even as a lucky customer who has an unlimited data package, and even as a minority who chooses to stay informed about the latest technology, I should still be catered to as well. I mean, that’s what customer service is right? Making sure your customers’ needs are catered to? He said that the reason AT&T doesn’t still offer unlimited data is that “The average user only consumes about 2 or less GB a month.” Sure, that may be true for the average user currently, and it may be true furthermore for the average user who cares more about phones calls, text messages and Facebook updates more than frequently browsing rich web content and going to Youtube on their phone etc. However, with the much faster networks that are being deployed, and with more data intensive and media rich web content available today and tomorrow, that 2GB is going to be a bite-sized portion to the “average user” very shortly…
In my frustration, I argued that I am paying for the service to the SIM, not service to the device itself (otherwise what’s the point of the SIM in the first place?). As such, there shouldn’t be any issue with my circumventing AT&T’s artificial limitations on their branded Galaxy Tab’s hardware by buying directly from the manufacturer at a premium. I should be able to use my SIM in any device of my choosing, so long as I’m not violating the terms of service to that line, which I’m not (as I mentioned earlier, there was nothing in the Terms of Service that explicitly said I couldn’t use my SIM card in a tablet device.) Furthermore, I argued that the only real differences between the hardware in my Tab and the hardware in my Captivate were screen size, battery size, and the presence or absence of a front camera. For all the times I was told “Yes sir, I understand,” it really didn’t seem like he really understood…
It seems AT&T (and indeed any other US carrier which supplies a crippled Tab, or any other device) doesn’t want you to have a “Do Everything Device.” It’s bad for business! Why would they support a device that does everything your tablet or netbook does and everything your smartphone does, all on your single line subscription? Of course they’re going to cripple the Tab, because they want you to buy separate devices with separate line subscriptions and more money in their pockets! Not to mention, AT&T probably doesn’t want something that would have, up until recently, directly competed with the iPad, and frankly outdone it in some ways (when’s the last time you could make carrier phone calls, not SIP or VoIP, and text message on your iPad right out of the box?). I suppose that’s corporate America for you… What ever happened to providing superior service at the best value though?
So, if you are on AT&T, and you own a Galaxy Tab or are interested in getting one (or any other tablet on AT&T for that matter), here are some things to watch out for and speak out to:
AT&T is sweeping their network for devices by their IMEI, and if your device does not match up to whatever plan they want you to be on based on that device, your service could be changed or suspended.
If you have a grandfathered unlimited data plan, AT&T is doing the best they can to get you OFF of that plan by being very specific about what devices can be used with those plans.
I am only one person, and as one person, my voice has fallen upon the deaf ears of a very large company. As such, I urge you to speak out as a collective to AT&T, tell them about this situation, and others which likewise are upsetting to you as a customer. AT&T can ignore one person, but not a crowd…
Don’t contact customer service. Go straight to the source! Call AT&T’s office of the president at 866-751-5784 (option 1). Also, speak out on their Facebook page. Talk to your friends and family, spread the word!
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I am not on AT&T network any more I moved to sprint a few months before the Iphone came out its been that long, However AT&T is well with in there right to limit what device is allowed to do what on there network. Its sad that they would do that but in there contract agreement it is listed there.
Since this has completely ticked you off I would suggest you move carriers if you truly want to show them how unhappy you are with there service. Calling and complaining really isnt going to do you any good since you are in the minority of users that do what you described.
just my 2 cents
In europe the wireless operators are selling services - like phone calls and data. In US they are selling devices capable of calling or having data.
This diffrenece means that in eu if I don't like something I can move to difirenet operator and keep devices. In us you can't. that is why are people complaing that at&t is messing with them. Cause if they go to other provider they need to pay again for every device. In my home country hspa+ is still caled 3g, dataplan 12Gig for 19eur/month included all taxes
icreepin said:
Since this has completely ticked you off I would suggest you move carriers if you truly want to show them how unhappy you are with there service. Calling and complaining really isnt going to do you any good since you are in the minority of users that do what you described.
just my 2 cents
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I would gladly switch carriers if it weren't for the fact that I do a lot of international traveling, and Sprint/Verizon both being CDMA carriers is a deal-breaker for me. I'm with AT&T because of the GSM bands it supports, and that's it. If it weren't for that, if Sprint and Verizon were GSM carriers too, just like most of the rest of the world, I'd have switched a long time ago without a doubt.
The other thing is, for the most part I'm not entirely unhappy with the service AT&T provides, when it's providing service to the equipment I use as that equipment was designed. I only have an issue when it's clear that they are imposing artificial schemes which force customers into a price gouging situation.
Crippling the native features of one device (i.e. phone calling on the Tab) in order to force the consumer into buying ANOTHER device and ANOTHER line subscription in order to fulfill that function, which was artificially crippled on the other device, THAT to me is price gouging.
AT&T absolutely has the right to lay out their own criteria for HOW their network is used. Likewise, the customers have the right to make enough of a fuss to AT&T about WHAT they can use on their network, particularly when they're not violating the HOW part of the ToS.
If we all as consumers are complacent and passive enough to just lay down and go with the attitude of "Oh well, it's their network, and they can treat us however they want with it..." then AT&T (and any company for that matter) will take advantage of that and gouge us for as much money as they can get.
I'm arguing that we've reached an "Enough is enough" point from the customer's perspective, and I am urging as many people as I can to speak out in a common voice to say "This is what we want. Please deliver."
If you don't like something, don't just say "Oh well..." and keep it to yourself. Express yourself, and make your issues known, and band together with people who share the same concerns, otherwise nothing will ever change for the betterment of the user.
Ok I think you need a better example what is fundamentally wrong with your wireless providers. Lets say the you would buy and electric drill and you use it as screwdriver as well. The power company would you charge $ more for that. And if you say no I go to someone else they say you need new drill cause it does not work on our grid. And cause of that some has made a standard power gird. Or am I wrong? If you solve this problem you get better service.
monoko said:
In europe the wireless operators are selling services - like phone calls and data. In US they are selling devices capable of calling or having data.
This diffrenece means that in eu if I don't like something I can move to difirenet operator and keep devices. In us you can't. that is why are people complaing that at&t is messing with them. Cause if they go to other provider they need to pay again for every device. In my home country hspa+ is still caled 3g, dataplan 12Gig for 19eur/month included all taxes
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Exactly! And that's the thing, in America, we're in a largely CDMA network environment, where you can't just so easily keep on piece of hardware and jump from one carrier to another like you can with GSM using a SIM card. I mean you can still jump from one CDMA carrier to another using the same hardware, but it's a big hassle... Nowhere near as simple as popping in a different SIM card.
monoko said:
Ok I think you need a better example what is fundamentally wrong with your wireless providers. Lets say the you would buy and electric drill and you use it as screwdriver as well. The power company would you charge $ more for that. And if you say no I go to someone else they say you need new drill cause it does not work on our grid. And cause of that some has made a standard power gird. Or am I wrong? If you solve this problem you get better service.
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No, the issue it this:
The Galaxy Tab, directly from Samsung and in virtually every other market throughout the world, makes and receives phone calls and text messages just the same as any other smartphone can.
AT&T (and pretty much all other US carriers) have artificially (that is, on the software level, not hardware) disabled those native capabilities. In essence, they've crippled the functionality of the device.
The consumer is therefore forced to buy and carry two devices with them (a phone AND a tablet) in order to fulfill the complete functionality and user experience desired, in addition to paying for TWO separate lines.
My point is that if there is an option to use ONE device, which when unhindered can fulfill the duties of BOTH phone AND tablet, and AT&T FORCES you out of that option, and therefore FORCES you into paying more money, when you really don't have to, then THAT is price gouging.
icreepin said:
Since this has completely ticked you off I would suggest you move carriers if you truly want to show them how unhappy you are with there service. Calling and complaining really isnt going to do you any good since you are in the minority of users that do what you described.
just my 2 cents
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Or we could get a http://www.groubal.com/ petition going and see just how many people are considered minority. I be it is not a minority,
Whos to say the SGT users are a minority.
Jade Eyed Wolf said:
Exactly! And that's the thing, in America, we're in a largely CDMA network environment, where you can't just so easily keep on piece of hardware and jump from one carrier to another like you can with GSM using a SIM card. I mean you can still jump from one CDMA carrier to another using the same hardware, but it's a big hassle... Nowhere near as simple as popping in a different SIM card.
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check ur PM
Jade Eyed Wolf said:
No, the issue it this:
...
AT&T (and pretty much all other US carriers) have artificially (that is, on the software level, not hardware) disabled those native capabilities. In essence, they've crippled the functionality of the device.
....
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You don't understand the point. They can do it cause you have no other easy choise. (anti competitivie)
You should have standard, I am not saying GSM or SIM etc.
But to understand look at europe. (I am european, but that is not the point)
SIM - is external (that is the point of it)!!!... it's easy to change (dead phone... just borrow frends old and you fixed till you get new),
Protocol (GSM etc) is defined for allowed spectrum.
Defined Spectrum and no other. (they still need to buy the spectrum)
This gives you posibility of selling GSM phones without carriers cripple them.
So your US problem is free market. Sorry to say it that way I know you mostly proud of that. (Lest leave this alone... ).
Just I can see competition in this market as a bit virtual. (at least to me)
(check your history about power gird you will find that standards are sometimes needed for better consumer protection.)
Please no flame war.
mine just got blocked.
i got the email yesterday telling me to change it back to my phone or call in to discuss options for the tab. so i did at my first opportunity...
i just got blocked and then an email sent to me saying to call in and that it may be blocked on both devices...
awesome, just awesome...
This is a perfect example as to why i am dreading the att/tmo merger. I am a current tmo customer and i am currently using my tab as a phone like many tmo/att customers. I have called a few times to tmo customer service regarding different minor issues and they know that i am using the tab as my phone, because i have told them, and they have not said anything they just mention how good of a devise it is and all that stuff, no issues.
Basically i am on an unlimited android plan $24.99 and of course the voice is extra. Now since this is supposed to last a year before it goes through (i really hope not) i will probably be at the end of my contract if the merger goes through and i am sure i will be forced to make changes to my plan: first i would need to chose one of their plans (god know what they will be then and how much) and second, forget about even using my tab as i am currently using it. If they do this to their own customers they i dread to think what they will do to the tmo customers that decide to stay with them once their contracts are up.
So my question is what would be the chances of me keeping my original plan on a month to month basis and not sign a new contract? (don't want to sign a new contract as i am planning to move to the UK around 2013 if everything goes as planned), who knows the answer to this but all i can say that it is not looking good for us tmo customers that are used to good customer service.
A sad, sad day for us all!!!!!
honggee said:
mine just got blocked.
i got the email yesterday telling me to change it back to my phone or call in to discuss options for the tab. so i did at my first opportunity...
i just got blocked and then an email sent to me saying to call in and that it may be blocked on both devices...
awesome, just awesome...
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and i am sure there is nothing anyone can do about this, either comply or move to sprint/verizon. i feel your pain even though i am not an att customer.