LG Wireless Phone

Why do cell phone companies charge for data plans on WIFI enabled Phones?

Wifi = Free... So why do cell phone companies charge us for outrageous data plans when WIFI is free in the first place? I think it's bogus, does anyone know?

Public Comments

1. They charge for their 3G/4G coverage. When you're not connected to WiFi you are still able to browse the web, send email, etc. I think the data plans are expensive as well and I don't think it's fair for them to force you to pay even if you only use WiFi and not their 3G/4G, but that's just the way it is. :(
2. 1. WiFi is NOT free. Someone has to pay for the Internet. 2. It's mainly for people on the go who need the Internet but cannot get WiFi, e.g. on a train from one place to another without WiFi. You can't always find WiFi wherever you go, and that's where data plans come in. It's outrageous, for sure, but part of the reason it's more expensive is because data carried over cell phone networks with a large range, whereas WiFi usually covers smaller areas like houses or airports. Before someone else asks: Text messages (SMS) are not data because they only travel from one cellphone network to another and are usually only text. Internet data needs to first travel from the server where the information is stored and then to your phone. And let's not forget that websites are MUCH more than just 160 characters of text these days (unlike texts). So I hope that answers your question.
3. Its not the fact that they have wifi that they charge for, its that they are smartphones & smartphones usually have wifi & smartphones require data plans. Not all smartphones have wifi, example the 1st BlackBerry Storm. The fact was it was a smartphone & therefore still required a data plan.
4. lol to make money
5. I have found that contacting my provider's site is the best way to get my questions answered. I look for the FAQ section.