HTC Magic with Unlimited Internet from SMART
I usually don’t get mobile phones from mobile operators. Though they subsidize the cost of these phones, I still think they’re pretty high for the postpaid plans they offer. There were a couple of times I got the phones for free from these networks – the first was a Nokia 3530 under plan 800 from Globe (2 year contract, only lasted for several months), and a Smart Amazing Phone (a.k.a. HTC Tanager) under plan 800 from Smart (30 month contract). I got them because I thought they’re being offered for free at the right plan.
It’s been 7 years since I got a free phone, and my needs have changed too. I’ve been harping for these networks to offer unlimited internet for users who rely on data. I became a data-centric person who wants to be online 24/7 so I can send and receive emails, search for subjects quickly, and update my friends on social-networking sites. I also wanted a smartphone that has all the connectivity I need, which of course are Bluetooth, WiFi, GPS, & 3G.
I was introduced to the Android Mobile Operating System last year and had the chance to play with the HTC Magic. The HTC Magic is being offered exclusively by SMART and during that time it’s being offered at Plan 3500 for a cash-out of Php3,000.00. I thought the price was outrageous and decided not to get it. After several months of trying to offer it on lower plans with an HTC Sense upgrade, they began to offer it at Plan 1800 for FREE. And the deal clincher for this is the Unlimited Internet that came along with this plan. Not bad eh? It’s the best postpaid plan being offered by these networks.
So I went to the SMART Sales Office in Cash & Carry Mall and gave the required documents. After 1 week, they called me up to advise that my HTC Magic is ready for pick-up. I’m aware I got a “not so new” model with the HTC Hero (which was the first Android phone I’ve used for 3 months) launched several months after the Magic and the HTC Legend and HTC Desire coming out soon. But almost all the features of the Hero are present in the Magic, and I’m fine with that. Like what I’ve said, the Unlimited Internet is a deal clincher and no other plans from other mobile operators can offer what SMART is offering.
I’m thinking of getting an android phone soon to get a feel of what it’s like to use it and compare it to the Blackberry that I so love using. 🙂 You know so well how biased I am to the Blackberry but I want to challenge that myself because the android phone looks very promising to me.
I admit, although I’ve had so many problems with Smart (I currently have one right now) for the past 11 years, I can’t give up on it just yet because they have a Blackberry and unlimited internet service that has yet to be beaten by its competitors. 🙂
@Liezl,
Android is indeed a promising mobile OS. I’m not totally jumping ship from Windows Mobile but it’s so far meeting my expectations for my tasks both at work and personal.
@Kristine,
I waited for a week before I got my unit. If you want to get a unit the fastest way, you can go to SM Megamall Wireless Center. Tonyo got his unit there. Thing is, you’ll need to visit the HTC Care Center in Yakal St., Makati to have it upgraded to its latest firmware version. Upgrade process only takes 30 minutes tops.
bro, i also DM-ed you these questions:
How much did you get the plan for, if you don’t mind me asking? and how long was the wait?
I’m looking to either (1) try out an affordable open-line android phone or (2) sign up for that unlimited internet plan with Smart (ever since i heard about it from you and Erwin @ Ponti. for now, i’m stuck on my iPhone 3GS stuck on Globe (which will bleed me dry, i keed you not).
Your recommendations?