This past year has been a definate change in our lives haveing to go back and forth to another major city over 200 miles away for medical reasons, not to mention time spent in our local hospital. There "guest's" Wi-Fi are a great asset for most browsing, checking e-mail, etc but not so good for any program using java or exchanging information. Because both of us do work from our computers requiring a more secured source for internet we had thought of the addition of Hot Spot or VPN on our cell phones. Our Cell Phone provider would have increased our bill for about $35.00 per month. Already paying 150.00 + just for the limited data package we have. We are currently using androids, Samsung and HTC. So we went to straight talk, unlimited data $45.00 per month per line, added tether lite to my HTC for $9.95 (One time fee) and now have the freedom to "Go Anywhere" with the laptop as long as there is cell phone service by just using the USB tethering. Just a thought for anyone looking for savings with the same problem. Hope this helps some of you.
I use att go phone. found that most of the texting was from wife and kids trying to locate me. (-: Turned off texting, I don't find that it is something that I miss. I prefer email at home on my laptop. I can send and recieve texts from folks phones if it that important. usually rums me about $8 per month.
-- Edited by lonfu on Thursday 20th of February 2014 09:46:24 AM
Personally, I am using BROADVOICE for VoIP currently and ditched all cell phones. I miss the cells for the SMS because I do not like chatting on the phone. I have heard 'Broadvoice' offers cell phone service too -- I know NOTHING to advise currently - but will check int out as many of my friends are FREAKING since I do not have cell accessibility. Currently - I have internet services using Google Voice (free), Skype (free with skype id but $10/month for premium services and $15/3 months for actual phone number), and a fax ($20/month and has been that way for 8+ yrs with MyFax.com).
Thank you for your feedback Ionfu and pselsm -- great information.