AT&T increases Early Upgrade pricing

AT&T has increased their Early Upgrade pricing that may impact how quickly Windows Phone 7 devices move off the shelves.

Effective October 3, 2010, upgrade pricing for Smartphones will increase from the two-year commitment price plus $75 to the two-year price plus $200. The example used on an internal document obtained by BGR has the Blackberry Torch would carry a $399 early upgrade price ($199 two year price pluse $200). According to AT&T this still represents a savings of $100 off the non-commitment price of $499.

The justification for this change; "As smartphones become increasingly more sophisticated, the cost of these devices has also increased.".  Smartphones are becoming more sophisticated and capable, but a 166% increase? 

The new policy doesn't apply to iPhones or basic/quick messaging phones. No word as of yet if the new Windows Phone 7 devices will be exempt or not. 

George Ponder

George is the Reviews Editor at Windows Central, concentrating on Windows 10 PC and Mobile apps. He's been a supporter of the platform since the days of Windows CE and uses his current Windows 10 Mobile phone daily to keep up with life and enjoy a game during down time.