[foomarks]

I will gladly pay for a phone outright if the carriers offer a data-centric plan for $50 a month with no commitment.

Until then, I'm hiding out this year with Google Voice and my Virgin Mobile prepaid. So far, it's been awesome and works out exactly for my needs. It sucks that I don't have decent mobile data: but I can wait a little longer until carriers realize they need to offer better and customized services.

I've saved about $400 this year so far by switching to my new setup. With the saved money, I have some new shiny clothes and have been enjoying eating out more!