Sprint’s Virgin Mobile USA brand recently launched new data plans exclusive to big-box retailer Wal-Mart that include both single- and multi-line plans with shared data.
The single-line plans include unlimited text messaging, 300 domestic calling minutes and 2.5 gigabytes of unthrottled data for $35 per month; or unlimited text messaging, domestic calling and 2.5 GB of unthrottled data for $45 per month. The multiline plans begin at $65 per month for two lines sharing unlimited voice calling, text messaging and 4 GB of data. An additional $25 per month allows for another line and 4 GB of extra shared data up to a total of four lines per account.
The multilines also include use of data through a mobile hot spot connection, with additional data for all lines priced at $10 per month for 1 GB or $15 per month for 2 GB. All lines require a $20 “starter kit.”
Virgin Mobile USA continues to offer plans outside of the new Wal-Mart agreement.
The announcement comes on the heels of T-Mobile US updating its branded prepaid service. T-Mobile US last summer announced it had snatched the domestic prepaid crown away from Sprint.
• Verizon Wireless announced updates to its Push To Talk Plus service that now allows for push-to-talk interoperability between select 3G and LTE devices. Devices compatible with the offering include the Motorola Droid Maxx, Samsung Galaxy S5 and Casio G’zOne Commando, with support also set to rollout to the Kyocera Brigadier.
As part of the new update, Verizon Wireless said it would waive the $5 per-line fee for the PTT service for six months.
Verizon Wireless last summer updated its PTT service, which is powered by Kodiak Networks, with claims of faster setup times and improved call quality.
• Fresh off the closing of its acquisition of Mexico wireless operator Iusacell, AT&T said its World Connect calling option now includes unlimited calling to all phones in Mexico as part of the plans $5 per-month fee. The plan is available to AT&T Mobility’s Mobile Share Value customers.
• Vancouver, British Columbia-based Mojio announced an agreement with AT&T to expand the reach of Mojio’s connected car platform. Mojio’s offering consists of a module that plugs into a vehicle’s on-board data port that can then synch with a driver’s smartphone through an open-source application to provide access to vehicle and driving services. The module, which includes embedded GPS and 3G connectivity, sells for $149 and includes one year of service.
Additional carrier news can be found on the RCR Wireless News “Carriers” page.
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