Chalk it up as a rumor for now, but the current word on the street is that Verizon Wireless will be mandating data plans - get this - for every 3G phone in their lineup beginning January 18th.  Received through my tip line and through a "whisper" on BGR, the plans will begin at $9.99 for 25 MB, and will go to $29.99 for unlimited data.  Though my tip never mentioned it, BGR's intel states that mobile e-mail will be included.  My guess is that this will apply to new activations and upgrades after January 18th.

Again, just a rumor and not confirmed at this time, but I can't imagine this going over well with the public.  I don't see my grandparents (who are loyal Verizon customers) needing data plans.  My immediate family (none of which use or need a data plan) would see a $50 monthly increase on their statement, at minimum.

$350 early termination fees for advanced devices, mandatory data plans on all 3G devices...what's your take on this?