FAQs

  1. What is Verizon’s Share Everything family plan?

    • A plan offering unlimited phone calls, texts, and a shared data bucket accessible by up to 10 Verizon Wireless devices.
  2. When did the plan launch?

    • June 28, 2012.
  3. What are the monthly plan costs?

    • $50 for 1GB, $60 for 2GB, $70 for 4GB, $80 for 6GB, $90 for 8GB, and $100 for 10GB.
  4. Can all plans be shared?

    • Only plans with 1GB or more of data can be shared.
  5. What additional charges apply to devices?

    • Monthly fees range from $10 for tablets to $40 for smartphones.
  6. Can customers exceed their data limit?

    • Yes, but they will incur an overage fee of $10 for 2GB or $15 for 1GB.
  7. What happens to customers with unlimited data plans?

    • Customers upgrading to new phones must switch to a capped plan; those who stay with their existing devices can keep unlimited data.
  8. Why is Verizon moving away from unlimited data plans?

    • To manage heavy data usage and encourage customers to use more devices.
  9. What other companies offer shared data plans?

    • AT&T is developing a similar plan, while Sprint Nextel still offers unlimited data and T-Mobile USA opposes family plans.
  10. How can customers monitor data consumption?

    • Using the data calculator on Verizon’s website or the My Verizon app.
  11. Is the plan sustainable in the long run?

    • Verizon does not believe unlimited data is sustainable due to the increasing demand for data-intensive devices.
  12. What are future pricing plans for emerging connected devices?

    • Verizon is working with manufacturers to create pricing models based on subscription or usage.

Summary

Verizon Wireless unveiled its “Share Everything” family plan, which shakes up the way customers pay for wireless services. The plan offers unlimited phone calls and texts, with a shared data bucket that can be used by multiple devices. This concept is expected to drive sales of connected devices, especially tablets.

The plan ranges from $50 to $100, with additional monthly fees for each device. Customers can exceed their data limit, but overage charges will apply. Verizon is phasing out unlimited data plans, requiring customers upgrading to new phones to switch to capped plans.

This shared data plan is a natural evolution in the industry’s move away from unlimited data. Verizon and other carriers believe it will foster a growth ecosystem of connected devices. For more information, visit Verizon’s website or contact customer service.