In a bit of exclusive news, we just found out that Virgin Mobile plans to change its Broadband2Go prices and the new rates should make the prepaid broadband a more attractive option.
According to our tipster, Virgin Mobile will offer only two Broadband2Go plans beginning August 24: $10 for 10 days with a 100 MB cap and a $40 monthly unlimited plan.
The company currently offers four plans which range from $10 to $60 a month and span 100 MB to 5 GB. These new plans should make it much simpler to choose what kind of broadband you want.
As a blogger, I really need to be connected everywhere I go but I’m still reluctant to plunk down $60 a month for a Verizon MiFi because I am around WiFi networks most of the time. Sure, I can write off this cost but it still causes a cheapskate like me to hesitate.
That’s where Virgin Mobile Broadband2Go really fits in, as I’ve been using its prepaid MiFi 220 to get online when I’m in the field and can’t connect to a WiFi network. I don’t have to worry about speeds or coverage because it uses Sprint’s 3G network (Virgin Mobile is owned by Sprint) and I only pay for the limited times when I need it. The simplified Virgin Mobile Broadband2Go plans should just make it easier for me to use this service.
The move also comes as the competition is heating up, as high-end devices like the Apple iPhone 4, Motorola Droid X and other devices come with 3G tethering or the ability to create a WiFi hotspot. This comes with an extra monthly fee but you have the convenience of not having to carry around multiple devices.
Retail giant Best Buy is also jumping into the connection space and it will be reselling Clearwire WiMax services under the Best Buy Connect brand. The pricing and coverage area is still up in the air but the company has a strong brand name and could find success with this venture.