T-Mobile Black Friday Motorola MotoZine Cell Phone Free w/ 2-year contract

[chunkymonkey]

Hi! This is my first post! I got this from a very reliable source. Really awesome Cell Phone!
T-Mobile's Black Friday deal is for a new phone called the MotoZine. It is a New Phone that has not come out yet, it is made by Motorola and Kodak. The Cell Phone will be FREE with a 2 year contract with T-Mobile. This is at T-Mobile stores too.
MOTOZINE ZN5 is the first mobile phone to combine Motorola’s ModeShift Technology and KODAK Imaging Technology redefining the quality, convenience and connectivity of mobile imaging devices.
Redefining Mobile Imaging
Simply slide the lens cover open to illuminate ModeShift Technology, transforming the full-featured mobile phone into an ultra-fast 5 megapixel camera, complete with auto-focus, low-light optimization, and a bright Xenon flash. ZINETM ZN5 is the only mobile phone to have KODAK Imaging Technology that can be instantly combined with KODAK PERFECT TOUCH Technology for brighter, more vivid pictures on the spot which look noticeably better than pictures created without the technology. Users can take advantage of multiple capture modes, including panorama, which automatically stitches together continuous shots taken on the horizon line into a single, extended image1.

Snap and Share – Instantly!
No other phone from Motorola puts image capture first, with a high-resolution landscape screen and one of the fastest click-to-click times available for 5 megapixel camera phones.

Auto-focus locks in less than one second and there are no delays when taking one photo to the next. With one touch, users can view all their photos right from the home screen; no menus, no searching. ZN5 is optimized to work with KODAK EASYSHARE Software and provide one-touch access to KODAK Gallery1 or other Web sharing sites2, by using ShoZu1 to easily move pictures off the device, allowing consumers to print, share and enjoy their photos whenever they want. Share images with Edge or Wi-Fi connectivity 1,3 via Web sites directly from the device2 and display instant slideshows on your TV4 to friends and family with just one cable. Printing photos via Bluetooth® Wireless Technology5 is easy with KODAK Picture Kiosks and KODAK All-in-One Printers.

Tell us All About it
In phone mode, ZN5 features Motorola’s proprietary CrystalTalkTM Technology to help users hear and be heard, even in noisy environments. Stereo Bluetooth wireless technology enables pairing with compatible Bluetooth-enabled accessories, such as Motorola’s stereo Bluetooth-enabled headsets as well as Bluetooth-enabled KODAK All-In-One inkjet printers5

[chunkymonkey]

This is at T-Mobile stores too, like the ones at the Malls

[elenacr]

wow 5 megapixels in a cellphone :omg:

here's a pic if anyone is wondering how it looks like

[eugenile]

i assume getting this at bestbuy has the perks of no activation fee compared to buying it directly from tmobile or their stores

looks like it has WI-FI built in as well, already this makes it better than all the free phones that bestbuy offers with contract (was just there looking at them)

[Snagga]

Wi-Fi
GPRS
EDGE
Bluetooth with A2DP
USB
5 Megapixels Camera with Video and Flash
350 MB Embedded Memory
microSD (TransFlash) Card Slot
Polyphonic, MP3
GSM 850/900/1800/1900
Display: TFT, 262K colors , 240 x 320 pixels, 2.4 inches

[cowy]

2 year contract? Mmm, that's hard because sometimes there are new phones that interest me in just 1 year so, but thanks for the info anyway!! :)

Looks Cool! However, I still love the full qwerty keyboard one :look:

wow 5 megapixels in a cellphone :omg:

here's a pic if anyone is wondering how it looks like

[LoKo498]

Its about time Tmobile went to BestBuy!

[seventy9ers]

T-Mobile will be offering free flight promo similar to the one last year for new activation or upgrade with 2 year contract. Also just on Black Friday weekend, free Motorola 5MP camera phone with Kodak lens after $100MIR on 2 year contract. Here's the info on that phone:

http://www.t-mobile.com/shop/phones/Cell-Phone-Detail.aspx?cell-phone=Motorola-ZINE

[g3tz2thapap3r]

retarded... if your talkin abt a G1 then its a SD ... tmobile or many affilated sites give out phones for cheap / free or even YOU MAKE $ , w/ 2 yr contracts... you need to find a 1 yr Deal

[Elmers98]

T-Mobile will be offering free flight promo similar to the one last year for new activation or upgrade with 2 year contract. Also just on Black Friday weekend, free Motorola 5MP camera phone with Kodak lens after $100MIR on 2 year contract. Here's the info on that phone:

http://www.t-mobile.com/shop/phones/Cell-Phone-Detail.aspx?cell-phone=Motorola-ZINE

wait so tmobile is offering Zine for free for existing upgrade customers on bf weekend? or am i reading this wrong O_O?...do you also know if there are other special offers like this for existing upgrade customers on bf? because i'm desperate for a new phone xD

[Elmers98]

hmmm.

[YoungTheOld1]

^ i'm in the same boat. is there any kind of e-mail or official link? or is it just insider information?

[ElCorridor]

Sorry...no link or e-mail at this point, but I'll stake what few reputation points I have on it. The official annoucement is just going out now, so it should show up in some blogs soon. I'll come back and update this post when they hit.


Now...here's some info about the handset:

Lighten the load in your handbag or pockets and leave your camera at home. The MOTOZINE ZN5 is truly a camera replacement cell phone. With a 5-megapixel auto-focus camera and Kodak Imaging Technology, you will never miss capturing a candid moment with friends, a luminescent city skyline or a “you had to be there” moment.
With the MOTOZINE, favorite photos can be easily shared with friends and family. After taking a picture instantly upload it via Gallery Link with one simple click to the online Kodak Gallery. The MOTOZNE also comes with KODAK EASYSHARE Software making it easy to organize, edit, share, store and find photos.

Pictures taken on the MOTOZINE can also be shared by sending via MMS, email or transferring to a computer via USB, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth technology. Or you can show them off as a slideshow on your TV by connecting the phone to an included TV output/AV cable. Over 700 pictures can be stored on the phone with an included 1 GB memory card.
Not only will you take sharp pictures with the MOTOZINE, you’ll also look sharp using it. The phone features a stealth design with an LED morphing keypad for one-touch access to the camera controls.

MOTOZINE ZN5 features include:

Sleek bar phone with morphing keypad
5-megapixel camera with 8x digital zoom, xenon flash, auto focus and easy photo-sharing capabilities
KODAK Imaging Technology and KODAK PERFECT TOUCH Technology
Various photo capture and edit modes including panorama, grayscale, sepia, negative, reddish, greenish, blueish
Wi-Fi-enabled
Music player supports MP3, AAC, AAC+, eAAC+, AMR NB, AMR WB, WAV, WMA v10, WMA v9, XFM
Full HTML Web browser
FM radio
Instant messaging; supports AOL Instant Messenger, ICQ, Windows Live and Yahoo! Messenger
Stereo Bluetooth®
Speaker-independent voice recognition and speakerphone
Included 1 GB microSD (support for up to 4 GB)
T-Mobile® myFaves-enabled
2.0 x 4.6 x .46 inches; 3.9 ounces
Display: 2.4 inches diagonal, 240 x 320, 262k TFT
Quad-band world phone (850/900/1800/1900 MHz)

[cheaplikeafox]

will it be free after instant rebate or mail-in rebate?
nevermind...guess it's not instant :(

[rajua99]

if it's free then great....

[happygooddeal]

I hope its real. I went to Tmo store yesterday and they say most newer phones are same price. On black friday(Friday-Sunday), they only offer Free Flight if you buy One Overly Full Priced Ticket and accessories are on sale which is overly priced.
Rumor: G1 White Color is come out on blackfriday.

[cheaplikeafox]

Sorry...no link or e-mail at this point, but I'll stake what few reputation points I have on it. The official annoucement is just going out now, so it should show up in some blogs soon. I'll come back and update this post when they hit.


well the free flight promo is official...but not the free zine yet?

[chunkymonkey]

I hope its real. I went to Tmo store yesterday and they say most newer phones are same price. On black friday(Friday-Sunday), they only offer Free Flight if you buy One Overly Full Priced Ticket and accessories are on sale which is overly priced.
Rumor: G1 White Color is come out on blackfriday.

Nope sorry the G1 White color is out now.

[manuvns]

free companion air ticket is a rip off . the price of a single ticket already include the ticket for you companion .

[confoundedjoe]

a bit ago the upgrade site was down and now I am noticing that there are the extra MIR discounts all listed as N/A that I don't think were there before. Perhaps these will be active on Black Friday.141997

[don_keesho]

so this phone with wifi will allow me to browse the internet even if i don't have a data plan?

do you think they will require a data plan to get this phone free?

[cheaplikeafox]

so this phone with wifi will allow me to browse the internet even if i don't have a data plan?

do you think they will require a data plan to get this phone free?
yes
no data plan required

[don_keesho]

yes
no data plan required

thanks for the info. so where is the best place to get this phone? at the t-mo store or at a 3rd party retailer like Best Buy? and why?

also does anyone think there is any possibility of talking them into a 1-year contract only? i mean i have been with t-mobile for like 6 years. i feel like i deserve something for loyalty especially after putting up with their terrible customer service and spotty reception anywhere outside the city.

[Elmers98]

has it even been confirmed yet that this is even going to offered for free on black friday? because I still haven't seen any official notices :/

[coolbeanz]

any confirmation? seems like this is jus a rumor ...;)

[confoundedjoe]

so best buy has it online for free (no MIR!) w/2year. gettin mine tuesday.

[Weirdo1769]

so best buy has it online for free (no MIR!) w/2year. gettin mine tuesday.

I don't see this anywhere?

[YoungTheOld1]

Yeah how did you get it at best buy for free?

[rajua99]

i am also looking for this phone...

[rajua99]

i am also looking for this phone...

[don_keesho]

it is actually already on bestbuy.com for free. $479-$479 instant discount for a 2 year agreement. the only thing is that you have to pay $9.99 to have the phone shipped. it also works for 2 year contract extension.

i wonder if they already have these in store. i might have to check tomorrow.

[Weirdo1769]

it is actually already on bestbuy.com for free. $479-$479 instant discount for a 2 year agreement. the only thing is that you have to pay $9.99 to have the phone shipped. it also works for 2 year contract extension.

i wonder if they already have these in store. i might have to check tomorrow.


how about a link because I've scoured best buy's site and cannot find anything remotely close to this?

[Elmers98]

yes please give link to this because i can't find it :/ phone doesn't exist for me on bestbuy

[coolbeanz]

it is actually already on bestbuy.com for free. $479-$479 instant discount for a 2 year agreement. the only thing is that you have to pay $9.99 to have the phone shipped. it also works for 2 year contract extension.

i wonder if they already have these in store. i might have to check tomorrow.

I am waiting for black friday sale because bestbuy's contract extension/upgrade looks screwy ... it asks you which plan to extend and then it says theres a $35 activation fee which makes no sense since I am extending... I don't want to pay $35 activation fee when I can get it from Tmobile for $18 upgrade fee

[coolbeanz]

I am waiting for black friday sale because bestbuy's contract extension/upgrade looks screwy ... it asks you which plan to extend and then it says theres a $35 activation fee which makes no sense since I am extending... I don't want to pay $35 activation fee when I can get it from Tmobile for $18 upgrade fee

Let me break it down for you

If you upgrade 2 year with bestbuy.com and get the zine for free the costs break down like this
$35 activation/upgrade fee + $10 shipping = $45 for the zine with 2 year extension

If you get it from tmobile store on black friday
$18 upgrade fee = $18 for the zine with 2 year extension

my mind says best buy = worst buy in this case , wait for black friday!!

[confoundedjoe]

http://wireless.bestbuy.com/specialoffer.aspx?cid=34309_92b30975a444402dbaf5fc 55e37cbdedlinky

[darkhunter00]

but it tmobile free or free after rebate? Best Buy is no rebate.

[eugenile]

i hate that stupid activation fee, costco waves them on all their plans, i believe instore BB also does too, but if we want to get this online now we have to suck up the activation fee?

[coolbeanz]

i hate that stupid activation fee, costco waves them on all their plans, i believe instore BB also does too, but if we want to get this online now we have to suck up the activation fee?


BB does not sell tmobile contracts phones in store- they stopped in 2003
They only sell prepaid tmobile in store

[happygooddeal]

Just went to best buy store and they don't have Motorola Zine in store so I got it Online at bestbuy.com. I got 2 phones for FREE + Free Companion Flight on regular plan. But I have to pay $9.99 Shipping and $35 activation Fee.
NOTE: I went to Tmobile store, it cost $99(After Mail in Rebate) they wouldn't pricematch Bestbuy which is free and REQUIRED DATA PLAN for This phone which is suck.
No need to wait black friday because most newer T-mobile phone price are same. Most overly priced accessories on sale on black friday

[don_keesho]

Just went to best buy store and they don't have Motorola Zine in store so I got it Online at bestbuy.com. I got 2 phones for FREE + Free Companion Flight on regular plan. But I have to pay $9.99 Shipping and $35 activation Fee.
NOTE: I went to Tmobile store, it cost $99(After Mail in Rebate) they wouldn't pricematch Bestbuy which is free and REQUIRED DATA PLAN for This phone which is suck.
No need to wait black friday because most newer T-mobile phone price are same. Most overly priced accessories on sale on black friday

Yes, right now the price is $99 AR directly from T-Mobile. But the whole point of this thread is that on Black Friday they will offer it for FREE. Whether it will be via rebate is unknown.

If they will require a Data Plan is something I was worried about before. But if you try to buy this phone on the T-Mobile website it doesn't seem to make you buy a data plan. I think they were just feeding you full of BS. You should have just referred them to their website where the data plan is not required.

[rajua99]

Yes, right now the price is $99 AR directly from T-Mobile. But the whole point of this thread is that on Black Friday they will offer it for FREE. Whether it will be via rebate is unknown.

If they will require a Data Plan is something I was worried about before. But if you try to buy this phone on the T-Mobile website it doesn't seem to make you buy a data plan. I think they were just feeding you full of BS. You should have just referred them to their website where the data plan is not required.


it is free from tomorrow after mail in rebate of $99. in tomobile stores.....I dont know about the data plan...in the paper they said may be.....

i think we can do price match to best buy for free without data plan in stores from tomorrow....

[Elmers98]

^ what's a data plan? does that mean you have to extend the contract plan (1 or 2 years) to get the phone for free?

[don_keesho]

^ what's a data plan? does that mean you have to extend the contract plan (1 or 2 years) to get the phone for free?

a data plan is like the extra 19.99 per month to send/receive data over the EDGE network in order to access the internet and other applications. you know like most smart phones (blackberry, iphone, et al) in addition to a simple calling plan they require an additional data plan for email, internet, IM, gps, etc.

this phone has wi-fi though so many of us want to get it without the extra data plan if possible

either way, you have to sign a 2 year service contract to get this phone for free.

[eugenile]

if there is a dataplan required, i believe the rep helping you can give it to you without at their discretion. not to long ago were in the bestbuy store looking to get the blackberry curve, but we knew there was a data plan needed for it, but the guy there said i can give it to you without the data plan.. i hate that data plan crap.

anyways any latest news on this if its free without rebate for BF at BB?

[don_keesho]

if there is a dataplan required, i believe the rep helping you can give it to you without at their discretion. not to long ago were in the bestbuy store looking to get the blackberry curve, but we knew there was a data plan needed for it, but the guy there said i can give it to you without the data plan.. i hate that data plan crap.

anyways any latest news on this if its free without rebate for BF at BB?

well its already free without rebate on the BB website so i would assume it would be the same deal in-store. i don't know if they will have the actual phones in the store tomorrow or just make you order them and pay 9.99 for shipping, which you could have already done earlier this week.

a previous poster said they already went in the store, signed up and ordered the phone. that person also said that they weren't required to get a data plan at best buy like they were supposedly required to do at t-mobile. but they did have to pay the $35 activation fee.

[Elmers98]

crap..it is free but only with 2 year NEW contract...i think I could sign and upgrade my contract ><!!

[YoungTheOld1]

crap..it is free but only with 2 year NEW contract...i think I could sign and upgrade my contract ><!!

so extending won't work? how do you know this?

[xeno-a]

is it true that the rebate require to add the data plan ?

http://www.t-mobile.com/popup/generic_popup.aspx?action=devicepromo&device=7696d349-d0ff-445a-a612-af826b92c84d

[Weirdo1769]

anyone know how long this is good for?

I'm trying through T-mobile's site and it's telling I owe 269.00 after tax.

[salefan]

i ordered 2 of them last night for 99.99 and rebate of 99.99. crap, if it requires data plan. did not know that, and at $15 per phone. the rebate may take several months to show up,, so you lose on that. cheats

[salefan]

just looked at the rebate form, zine does not look to require a data plan. lets wait and see

[Sox.at.six]

just looked at the rebate form, zine does not look to require a data plan. lets wait and see

Hmm, that rebate claims it is not valid at T-Mobile owned stores or T-mobile.com. Do have to go to an authorized reseller? :confused:

Sox

[happygooddeal]

I don't understand why people still ordering from Tmobile while bestbuy sell Motorola ZINE for FREE !! No Rebate, No Data Plan. I already got 2 Moto Zine For FREE from Bestbuy.

[Elmers98]

^ doesnt best buy require like a 35$ activation fee?...also could it be bought in store or does it have to be online?

one more thing, for the data plan, could it be canceled after 1 month of using or something or do you need to have it for all 2 years?

[YoungTheOld1]

^ In the rebate form, what is the Blackberry or Windows Mobile Data Feature Add-on of $14.98 or higher along with plan activation?

[YoungTheOld1]

I don't understand why people still ordering from Tmobile while bestbuy sell Motorola ZINE for FREE !! No Rebate, No Data Plan. I already got 2 Moto Zine For FREE from Bestbuy.

Can I do this instore as well?

[don_keesho]

is it true that the rebate require to add the data plan ?

http://www.t-mobile.com/popup/generic_popup.aspx?action=devicepromo&device=7696d349-d0ff-445a-a612-af826b92c84d

that link is confusing. it obviously does say that you need the data plan to qualify, but the actual rebate form does not include the Motozine as one of the phones where a data plan is required. so that is where the contradiction exists. i personally am going to go by the actual rebate form since that is where the terms of the rebate are really spelled out and thats what you send in.

[don_keesho]

Hmm, that rebate claims it is not valid at T-Mobile owned stores or T-mobile.com. Do have to go to an authorized reseller? :confused:

Sox

There are actually 3 different rebate forms depending on where you purchased the phone. One form is if you purchased the phone at a T-Mobile authorized reseller (the form referenced above). Another one is specifically if you purchased the phone in a T-Mobile store or at T-mobile.com. And there is yet another one if you purchased it over the phone with T-Mobile customer care.

As long as you purchase it at one of the above places then you are okay, but you must choose the rebate form that corresponds with where you purchased the phone.

[sofeisty]

I just ordered two with ONE YEAR contracts at $24.99 each after rebates. The link on TMO does not state you need a data plan other than family messaging.

SWEEET deal.

I'm now sending back the prepaid RAZRs. The kids complained because of the phone's lack of memory and no ability to install more because of the lack of SD card slot.

[YoungTheOld1]

I just ordered two with ONE YEAR contracts at $24.99 each after rebates. The link on TMO does not state you need a data plan other than family messaging.

SWEEET deal.

I'm now sending back the prepaid RAZRs. The kids complained because of the phone's lack of memory and no ability to install more because of the lack of SD card.

Did you get that deal at the t-mobile store? I went today and the guy had no idea what i was talking about. Anyone else have success?

[sofeisty]

Did you get that deal at the t-mobile store? I went today and the guy had no idea what i was talking about. Anyone else have success?

Nope. I called TMO direct. I had two upgrades coming and used them.

[design]

This is my experience,

I renewed my contract for 2 years through the phone. $100+$8.75(taxes)+$4.5 approx(shipping), $100 MIR, so the total cost of the phone is around $14. The customer service will waive the $18 upgrade fee if you ask for it.

If I had logged into my tmobile account online, this is what I would have had to pay
$100+$8.75(taxes)+$18(upgrade fee)+FS, $100MIR, so the final cost of the phone would be around $25.

Hope this helps.

[design]

This is my experience,

I renewed my contract for 2 years through the phone. $100+$8.75(taxes)+$4.5 approx(shipping), $100 MIR, so the total cost of the phone is around $14. The customer service will waive the $18 upgrade fee if you ask for it.

If I had logged into my tmobile account online, this is what I would have had to pay
$100+$8.75(taxes)+$18(upgrade fee)+FS, $100MIR, so the final cost of the phone would be around $25.

Hope this helps.

forgot to mention, no data plan needed.

[rajua99]

I just ordered two with ONE YEAR contracts at $24.99 each after rebates. The link on TMO does not state you need a data plan other than family messaging.

SWEEET deal.

I'm now sending back the prepaid RAZRs. The kids complained because of the phone's lack of memory and no ability to install more because of the lack of SD card slot.

where did u get 1 year plan after reabates in store or online...

[sofeisty]

Called TMO direct. People you have to ask for a one year. They will NOT offer it to you.

[frogqueen75]

Got ours (2 of them) in a T-mobile store yesterday FAR, no data plan, with a 2 yr contract extension. You can even fill out the rebate form online at Tmobilerebates.com , though you'll still need to mail in the confirmation page w/the sticker/UPC.

PS-Was told by someone on the phone at T-mobile that if you do add a data plan, you can always take it off when you get your rebate...I would verify this before purchasing tho-not sure she knew what she was talking about.

[cheaplikeafox]

This is my experience,

I renewed my contract for 2 years through the phone. $100+$8.75(taxes)+$4.5 approx(shipping), $100 MIR, so the total cost of the phone is around $14. The customer service will waive the $18 upgrade fee if you ask for it.

If I had logged into my tmobile account online, this is what I would have had to pay
$100+$8.75(taxes)+$18(upgrade fee)+FS, $100MIR, so the final cost of the phone would be around $25.

Hope this helps.

i called tmobile customer service and they told me a data plan was required...the first time i called they had no idea what i was talking about and told me it was only available in stores...maybe i'll try for a 3rd time.

[sofeisty]

A true data plan is not necessary. The text messaging plans over $14.99 qualify. This is not the case with most TMO smartphone rebate plans.

[cundo]

Am I eligible for this phone this weekend if I had renewed my contract a month ago? I already signed up for two years a month ago and would not mind starting a new two year contract now if I can get this phone for free.

[cheaplikeafox]

A true data plan is not necessary. The text messaging plans over $14.99 qualify. This is not the case with most TMO smartphone rebate plans.

what if i have the 9.99 family unlimited messaging plan? technically it's not over 14.99 but it is normally available for 19.99

when i choose to upgrade online...it doesn't mention anything about a data plan or messaging plan is required...maybe cause i already have an unlimited messaging plan?

[cheaplikeafox]

Am I eligible for this phone this weekend if I had renewed my contract a month ago? I already signed up for two years a month ago and would not mind starting a new two year contract now if I can get this phone for free.

no you're not eligible for a full upgrade if you just renewed recently.

[cheaplikeafox]

I just ordered two with ONE YEAR contracts at $24.99 each after rebates. The link on TMO does not state you need a data plan other than family messaging.

SWEEET deal.

I'm now sending back the prepaid RAZRs. The kids complained because of the phone's lack of memory and no ability to install more because of the lack of SD card slot.

was this $24.99 before the $18 upgrade fee, shipping fee, and tax? if so that's still not a bad deal for a 1 yr upgrade.

[cheaplikeafox]

Just went to best buy store and they don't have Motorola Zine in store so I got it Online at bestbuy.com. I got 2 phones for FREE + Free Companion Flight on regular plan. But I have to pay $9.99 Shipping and $35 activation Fee.
NOTE: I went to Tmobile store, it cost $99(After Mail in Rebate) they wouldn't pricematch Bestbuy which is free and REQUIRED DATA PLAN for This phone which is suck.
No need to wait black friday because most newer T-mobile phone price are same. Most overly priced accessories on sale on black friday

when i try to upgrade online through best buy it requires a messenging plan. It says this "Note that a feature of $14.99 or more is required to qualify for T-Mobile's mail-in-rebate." I don't know how you got it without a messaging plan online through best buy...

[rajua99]

was this $24.99 before the $18 upgrade fee, shipping fee, and tax? if so that's still not a bad deal for a 1 yr upgrade.

I called t-mobile today and that what they offered for 1 year upgrade for me....

124.99 + 18 Upgrade fee + tax + free shipping with in 7-9 days which i can pay in installments in 3 months and no need of data plan....and i can get 100 back through Mail in reabte....

so total will be 24.99 + 18 +tax after MIR....but i will not qualify for companion flight...that is qualifeid only for 2 year upgrade not for 1 year upgrade....

[cheaplikeafox]

I called t-mobile today and that what they offered for 1 year upgrade for me....

124.99 + 18 Upgrade fee + tax + free shipping with in 7-9 days which i can pay in installments in 3 months and no need of data plan....and i can get 100 back through Mail in reabte....

so total will be 24.99 + 18 +tax after MIR....but i will not qualify for companion flight...that is qualifeid only for 2 year upgrade not for 1 year upgrade....

i called and they told me the same thing for the 1 yr...but they said you need a 9.99 web2go data plan for the $100 rebate. They said you can cancel that after 45 days though. Looks like i won't be jumping on this deal...too many restrictions for the rebate that seem questionable between the customer reps i spoke to.

[osagej4]

All these cell phone reps on the phone/in-store are all liars/swindlers - aka sales people trying to make the most money off of you. They will say something completely different than another rep will.

If people here have been saying they've been getting all these for no additional data plan and only 1 year contract, I would immediately hang up on whichever salesperson is telling you it is not possible and call back again and act like this is your first time calling. It worked for me an hour ago!

[cheaplikeafox]

All these cell phone reps on the phone/in-store are all liars/swindlers - aka sales people trying to make the most money off of you. They will say something completely different than another rep will.

If people here have been saying they've been getting all these for no additional data plan and only 1 year contract, I would immediately hang up on whichever salesperson is telling you it is not possible and call back again and act like this is your first time calling. It worked for me an hour ago!

i don't necessary think they are liars/swindlers...i think they are just trying to go by the book. On the tmobile.com website it clearly states

"For a limited time, when you purchase a T-Mobile Motorola ZINE on T-Mobile.com or through 1-877-387-4324 receive a $249.99 instant discount and a $100 mail-in rebate.

To qualify for instant discount, the product must be activated with a monthly T-Mobile rate plan. FamilyTime plans may qualify for up to five Instant discounts.

To qualify for this offer, the product must be activated with a T-Mobile rate plan. The plan must have a monthly access fee of at least $39.99/month per service line for Individual plans, or $49.99/month per service line (up to 5 lines) for FamilyTime® plans. Also, a Data Feature Add-on of $14.98/month or higher, or an Unlimited Messaging Bundle of $14.98/month or higher, must be included. Please see rebate form for more details."

the only way to be sure is to call the tmobile rebate department to see if data/messenging plan is actually required. 1-877-311-8853
i would hate to see all of these people get their $100 rebates rejected due to not having a $14.98 add-on

i'm not going to risk it. i think i'll wait for instant rebates to be on the safe side. Thanks for everyone's shared experiences though.

[Apatel]

Thanks OP. Got the 1 yr plan. I was out of contract for over a year. $124.99, she would not waive the $18 upgrade fee, so all said and done will be around $55 AR with taxes and all. Not bad at all.

[sofeisty]

what if i have the 9.99 family unlimited messaging plan? technically it's not over 14.99 but it is normally available for 19.99

when i choose to upgrade online...it doesn't mention anything about a data plan or messaging plan is required...maybe cause i already have an unlimited messaging plan?

You would have to have a plan that COSTS YOU over $14.99.

Thanks OP. Got the 1 yr plan. I was out of contract for over a year. $124.99, she would not waive the $18 upgrade fee, so all said and done will be around $55 AR with taxes and all. Not bad at all.

That is what I paid x 2 for two phones. I could not get the upgrade fee waived either. Still, not a bad deal at all is right. The Zine phone is much nicer than many of the free or low cost phones they are offering.

[sofeisty]

Am I eligible for this phone this weekend if I had renewed my contract a month ago? I already signed up for two years a month ago and would not mind starting a new two year contract now if I can get this phone for free.

You could if you add a line but that would be the only way to get the phone if you upgraded a month ago.

[frogqueen75]

Just got off the phone w/T-mobile rebate dept who assured us that we do not need a data plan in order to get the rebate for the Zine. We're going to call back tomorrow during regular business hours & talk to someone else to make sure we get the same answer, but since the rep at the T-mobile store didn't make us get one & this rep said we didn't have to have one, I'm gonna' say that we don't have to have one. This may be a YMMV depending upon the plan you have.

[cheaplikeafox]

Just got off the phone w/T-mobile rebate dept who assured us that we do not need a data plan in order to get the rebate for the Zine. We're going to call back tomorrow during regular business hours & talk to someone else to make sure we get the same answer, but since the rep at the T-mobile store didn't make us get one & this rep said we didn't have to have one, I'm gonna' say that we don't have to have one. This may be a YMMV depending upon the plan you have.

thanks for the info...
ok i just talked to another rep saying that we don't have to have a data plan for upgrades....maybe that requirement is only for new users?

[don_keesho]

here are some tips to get the best deal if you are a current T-Mobile customer looking to upgrade to this phone. its true that there is little consistency as far as what one CSR will offer compared to the next but this will help:

1.)When you call T-Mobile (611) the automated system will ask you "what can i help you with?". Respond with "Cancel my service". This will take you directly to a Customer Retention Specialist. They are the ones who have the ability to waive fees and bend rules to keep you as a customer.

2.)When the Customer Retention Specialist answers the phone, tell them
you were considering signing a contract with AT&T or another service and you just wanted to see what T-Mobile would offer. Ask if they offer any new phones for free with contract and they should mention the Zine.

3.)Activation or Upgrade fees - just tell them other carriers offer to waive the activation fee when you sign a contract with them.

4.)Shipping fees - tell them you can get the Zine for free in-store at Best Buy. No shipping cost and no wait. If they tell you that Best Buy will charge you a $35 activation fee though, tell them that Best Buy offers the phone for free and they don't require a rebate.

5.)If you still feel like they are holding back and not offering you the best deal, call back another time.

Tonight was my 3rd time calling since Friday and this is what I got:


1 year contract
No upgrade fee
Expedited shipping for free
And to my surprise - $24.99 with NO REBATE (i hope she didn't make a mistake)

[sofeisty]

here are some tips to get the best deal if you are a current T-Mobile customer looking to upgrade to this phone. its true that there is little consistency as far as what one CSR will offer compared to the next but this will help:

1.)When you call T-Mobile (611) the automated system will ask you "what can i help you with?". Respond with "Cancel my service". This will take you directly to a Customer Retention Specialist. They are the ones who have the ability to waive fees and bend rules to keep you as a customer.

2.)When the Customer Retention Specialist answers the phone, tell them
you were considering signing a contract with AT&T or another service and you just wanted to see what T-Mobile would offer. Ask if they offer any new phones for free with contract and they should mention the Zine.

3.)Activation or Upgrade fees - just tell them other carriers offer to waive the activation fee when you sign a contract with them.

4.)Shipping fees - tell them you can get the Zine for free in-store at Best Buy. No shipping cost and no wait. If they tell you that Best Buy will charge you a $35 activation fee though, tell them that Best Buy offers the phone for free and they don't require a rebate.

5.)If you still feel like they are holding back and not offering you the best deal, call back another time.

Tonight was my 3rd time calling since Friday and this is what I got:


1 year contract
No upgrade fee
Expedited shipping for free
And to my surprise - $24.99 with NO REBATE (i hope she didn't make a mistake)


My bet is she made a mistake. The helpful rep I spoke to initially quoted me $24.99 w/o rebate. Then when we got through to the end and she gave me a total that I would be billed for the phone it gave her the $124.99 total plus upgrade fee and tax. She got all confused and went back to see what the difference was and it was that the rebate did not show up until the end.

Unless they waive the rebate and give you the $100 off upfront then you will be submitting a rebate to get that $24.99 price. I'm on a BDL discount (never verified my 'employment' :) ) so I didn't want to push too hard over $36 worth of upgrade fees. Also, they were allowing me to upgrade on a line that I had just bought a G1 and had the number ported over to my existing out of contract number. Meaning, I got two upgrades on one line in 6 weeks. My existing number was still showing as eligible for an upgrade even after I'd purchased the G1 last month.

It's my experience that they are more wiling to waive that upgrade fee if you are signing for two years. If you are getting a one year they pretty much stick to their guns. They were willing to change my family unlimited text messaging plan to $9.99 a month if I signed on for two years but I chose to do one.

Here is the pdf of the rebate that appears on TMO's website when you add your phone type and purchase date. The form lists specific phones that require a data plan. The ZINE is NOT one of them. Thus, if a rep is telling you it is they do not know what they are talking about unless the rebate card in the box says differently.

[sofeisty]

FYI, the deal is dead online now.

[frogqueen75]

Hubby just spoke w/rebate center again-apparently they're getting flooded w/calls about their BF deal & the many problems it has caused! Anyway, the rep confirmed that for the Zine rebate you do not need a data plan, but hubby told her we've called several times & gotten several different answers, so she got a next-level supervisor on the line, who also verified it, stating that it was not one of the 10 data/smart phones requiring a data plan listed on the rebate form. Just to COA, we got her name & rep #, and will write them and today's date and the time of call on our rebate forms.

[cheaplikeafox]

Hubby just spoke w/rebate center again-apparently they're getting flooded w/calls about their BF deal & the many problems it has caused! Anyway, the rep confirmed that for the Zine rebate you do not need a data plan, but hubby told her we've called several times & gotten several different answers, so she got a next-level supervisor on the line, who also verified it, stating that it was not one of the 10 data/smart phones requiring a data plan listed on the rebate form. Just to COA, we got her name & rep #, and will write them and today's date and the time of call on our rebate forms.

thanks for the update. I went in store today to check out the phone. It's pretty nice and I'm glad I got in on the deal because your response about the rebate center convinced me to contact customer service for the 4th time. I noticed in-store it says you need a 14.99 data plan like it says on the website except it says "not including family unlimited messenging bundle" However, it doesn't state that online. They really messed up on making the requirements for this phone. I don't think a data plan should be required since it's not even a smartphone!

Now I wonder if I should call customer service to make sure they have it noted on my account that they said the $100 rebates were valid.

[Gatewasani]

thanks for the update. I went in store today to check out the phone. It's pretty nice and I'm glad I got in on the deal because your response about the rebate center convinced me to contact customer service for the 4th time. I noticed in-store it says you need a 14.99 data plan like it says on the website except it says "not including family unlimited messenging bundle" However, it doesn't state that online. They really messed up on making the requirements for this phone. I don't think a data plan should be required since it's not even a smartphone!

Now I wonder if I should call customer service to make sure they have it noted on my account that they said the $100 rebates were valid.


Is this deal best available?
I am trying to bring 5 lines over to T-mobile from Sprint, is this best I could do?

how many of these phones will they give me>?

[coupondad]

Hubby just spoke w/rebate center again-apparently they're getting flooded w/calls about their BF deal & the many problems it has caused! Anyway, the rep confirmed that for the Zine rebate you do not need a data plan, but hubby told her we've called several times & gotten several different answers, so she got a next-level supervisor on the line, who also verified it, stating that it was not one of the 10 data/smart phones requiring a data plan listed on the rebate form. Just to COA, we got her name & rep #, and will write them and today's date and the time of call on our rebate forms.

What's COA?

[don_keesho]

What's COA?

cover our asses

[don_keesho]

just got my phone delivered today. its charging right now but a couple of initial reactions:

it seems like a well built phone execpt the camera shutter button seems a little wobbly to the touch. also there aren't really any actual keys in the traditional sense; they are flush with the surface except for tiny braille-like jewels for tactile feel. that will take some getting used to i think.

the microSD card slot is behind the battery which is really a design flaw in my opinion. but based on the use of my sony ericsson i don't change them out that much. I just need to get a higher capacity card and just leave it be i guess. it says it only supports up to 4GB cards but i read somewhere that the manufacturer says that because the picture manager function would run too slow with a higher capacity card. So I think an 8GB or higher would be fine if you were storing mostly music.

finally the headphone port is on the side of the phone which god only knows why they do this. it just makes the phone less pocketable with the headphone attached.

once it gets charged i'll be able to test it out thoroughly

[cheaplikeafox]

just got my phone delivered today. its charging right now but a couple of initial reactions:

it seems like a well built phone execpt the camera shutter button seems a little wobbly to the touch. also there aren't really any actual keys in the traditional sense; they are flush with the surface except for tiny braille-like jewels for tactile feel. that will take some getting used to i think.

the microSD card slot is behind the battery which is really a design flaw in my opinion. but based on the use of my sony ericsson i don't change them out that much. I just need to get a higher capacity card and just leave it be i guess. it says it only supports up to 4GB cards but i read somewhere that the manufacturer says that because the picture manager function would run too slow with a higher capacity card. So I think an 8GB or higher would be fine if you were storing mostly music.

finally the headphone port is on the side of the phone which god only knows why they do this. it just makes the phone less pocketable with the headphone attached.

once it gets charged i'll be able to test it out thoroughly

thanks for the update. So did you phone include the $100 rebate form to mail in? Everyone should keep us updated in this thread if they get their MIR in a few months...without data plans ;)

also this is probably where you read about the phone supporting more than 4 gb...

"The Motorola MOTOZINE ZN5 ships with a 1GB microSD memory card in the box, but supports larger microSDHC(INFO) cards. Motorola recommends using a card no larger than 4GB in size because the photo gallery app would have trouble handling 8GB or more worth of photos. In any event, the ZN5 had no problem with our 8GB card, and should work with the newly available 16GB cards as well, leaving plenty of room for both photos and music"

http://www.mobileburn.com/review.jsp?Page=3&Id=5721

[Gatewasani]

is deal still available?

Do you think its best deal I could get, Im bringing over 5 lines and I DO NOT want data

[cheaplikeafox]

is deal still available?

Do you think its best deal I could get, Im bringing over 5 lines and I DO NOT want data

deal ended nov. 30th
edit: for tmobile stores or tmobile.com :) but i guess not best buy

[don_keesho]

deal ended nov. 30th

Actually you can still get it for free from Best Buy. I know for sure that its still on their website for free without rebate. You'll have to check in store if they stock the phone. If not I'm sure they can still order it for you

It's going to cost you a $35 activation fee (+ $9.99 shipping). Thats still a good deal for this phone. Not sure if they are going to charge the activation fee for each of your phones though. If I were you I'd go into Best Buy and talk to someone there.

[don_keesho]

thanks for the update. So did you phone include the $100 rebate form to mail in? Everyone should keep us updated in this thread if they get their MIR in a few months...without data plans ;)

also this is probably where you read about the phone supporting more than 4 gb...

"The Motorola MOTOZINE ZN5 ships with a 1GB microSD memory card in the box, but supports larger microSDHC(INFO) cards. Motorola recommends using a card no larger than 4GB in size because the photo gallery app would have trouble handling 8GB or more worth of photos. In any event, the ZN5 had no problem with our 8GB card, and should work with the newly available 16GB cards as well, leaving plenty of room for both photos and music"

http://www.mobileburn.com/review.jsp?Page=3&Id=5721

there was no rebate form included with mine. im still hoping that the CSR was correct in telling me that my deal didn't require a rebate. Im gonna go in-store Tuesday to pay my bill and try out some protective cases for it so I'll ask to see what they actually charged me. If they did charge me 124.99 then Im just gonna print the rebate form online and send it in. Though I'll probably complain first.

[cheaplikeafox]

there was no rebate form included with mine. im still hoping that the CSR was correct in telling me that my deal didn't require a rebate. Im gonna go in-store Tuesday to pay my bill and try out some protective cases for it so I'll ask to see what they actually charged me. If they did charge me 124.99 then Im just gonna print the rebate form online and send it in. Though I'll probably complain first.

no rebate form? that's odd. someone in this forum got a rebate form saying that you needed a data plan or messenging plan of $14.99 or higher

they added a line though so that might be different than upgrades.

http://www.howardforums.com/showthread.php?t=1467797

[ferhanmm]

I love this phone, i got it without this deal though paid $135 after rebates : (
but look at these pictures!!

http://flickr.com/photos/46746266@N00/3057169399/

http://flickr.com/photos/46746266@N00/3059579216/

Once you get used to the panaorama mode you can take some nice ones. Still pictures are pretty good too....

http://flickr.com/photos/46746266@N00/3065165296/ (not me)

At times it does lag up a little. Really love the pictures though, not as great with night pictures, but still good.

[don_keesho]

I love this phone, i got it without this deal though paid $135 after rebates : (
but look at these pictures!!

http://flickr.com/photos/46746266@N00/3057169399/

http://flickr.com/photos/46746266@N00/3059579216/

Once you get used to the panaorama mode you can take some nice ones. Still pictures are pretty good too....

http://flickr.com/photos/46746266@N00/3065165296/ (not me)

At times it does lag up a little. Really love the pictures though, not as great with night pictures, but still good.

very cool panoramic shots. is there a special picture viewer program in windows that lets you view panoramic shots in native format and doesn't shrink or resize them in the viewer? one thats a free download preferably.

i haven't had a chance to play around with the camera yet but it looks to be better than one expects for a phone

[cheaplikeafox]

Hubby just spoke w/rebate center again-apparently they're getting flooded w/calls about their BF deal & the many problems it has caused! Anyway, the rep confirmed that for the Zine rebate you do not need a data plan, but hubby told her we've called several times & gotten several different answers, so she got a next-level supervisor on the line, who also verified it, stating that it was not one of the 10 data/smart phones requiring a data plan listed on the rebate form. Just to COA, we got her name & rep #, and will write them and today's date and the time of call on our rebate forms.

I just called the T-mobile rebate center to confirm the rebate for the moto zine. For new activations, a data plan/messaging plan is required to get the $100 rebate. For upgrading lines, it is NOT required to have a data or messaging plan to get the rebate. That clears things up a little.

[Sox.at.six]

Just got my ZN5 today. Wasn't sure it was actually coming, but it was here when I got home. Seems like a pretty sweet phone, my main beef is the crippleware T-mobile has loaded up on the thing. Disabling useful features with branded firmware is just plain stupid.:nono1:

Gonna unlock this badboy and look for a better firmware to flash onto it. But, most likely it's going on Ebay in a week or two. The camera is awesome, really dig the Xenon flash, but I like my N95 more I think. :heart:

SOX

[don_keesho]

Just got my ZN5 today. Wasn't sure it was actually coming, but it was here when I got home. Seems like a pretty sweet phone, my main beef is the crippleware T-mobile has loaded up on the thing. Disabling useful features with branded firmware is just plain stupid.:nono1:

Gonna unlock this badboy and look for a better firmware to flash onto it. But, most likely it's going on Ebay in a week or two. The camera is awesome, really dig the Xenon flash, but I like my N95 more I think. :heart:

SOX

well let us know if you find a better firmware because im already seeing potential limitations with the existing firmware. but my main concern with the phone being so new is that the dedicated camera buttons would not do what they are supposed to do. you know the little buttons in between the numbers keys.

but anyway i know what you mean. i spent way too many hours trying to port my contacts to the phone from vista. the packaged software would recognize the names but not the numbers. i finally had to .csv the contact list and export them to Outlook (which I don't use). Then i was able to successfully export them from Outlook to the phone, though the first name/last name format was backwards. very annoying.

then it was not intuitive how to browse the internet using wi-fi and bypass data service. even though i was connected to an open network it kept saying i needed to upgrade to data service. i hope this firmware allows it and its not validating data service everytime you try to connect, whether through wi-fi or EDGE. i'm gonna have to RTFM. i was able to check email pretty easily though.

[salefan]

Guys, STOP calling the CSR or reps. If so many people call, they will make it madatory with data plans. I know for a fact from store that data plan is NOT NOT reqired for motzine zn5. i got 2 phones today, charged them, synced to outlook, calender etc. now copying 2 gig of music, videos for my daily commutes. super cool phone! yet to try photos. will start taking tomorrow morning onwards. put a 4 Gig Sandisk micro card also from BF ($10 staples). i love the copying part, i can treat it as a USB disk. no freakin itunes or zune software. i like manual!

[jay42]

I received my zine a couple days ago and really like it. However, I am very naive when it comes to the wifi, unlocking phones, and firmware so any brief tutorials would greatly be appreciated. Should I be able to use the wifi for the internet at a location like starbucks? I connected to some wifi locations (starbucks included) but was not allowed to use the internet. Is there anything I could do to change this? I thought by this phone having wifi that I could gain access to the internet wherever wifi is located. I'm confused :confused:

[coupondad]

Jay42- you're on the right track with the WiFi, but you couldn't use it at Starbucks because they charge for it. Most independent coffee shops don't charge, although with some you need to ask for a code. Also, make sure you have WiFi set as the default browser.

Anyway, so far for the most part I love the phone, but my biggest complaint is the battery life. It lasts just over a day before it needs to be completely charged, and I haven't even used the camera yet! Plus, that's with it mostly in standby mode. Has anyone else noticed this? TIA

[osagej4]

Got it too - love it for the most part! 2 Things I hate the most are related to the "USB Connection" portion:

1) Am I supposed to break off that tiny little trapezoidal plastic covering from the USB Connection? It is SO HARD to clasp on and off and then it just stays in the way and it's only attached by a flimsy rubber string-like thing???

2) WHY IS IT NOT A REGULAR USB CONNECTION??? Booo - this is totally not a universal and convenient thing - for some reason I thought everything was going to be Universally USB compatible! Ugh

Any help would be appreciated for Question 1. Question 2 was rhetorical (unless it CAN be fixed somehow? :P)

[salefan]

I also find USB micro usb as a pain, all moto use this. i am glad they use 3.5mm audio jack.

Ye,s battery is a issue on some phones. I ordered two phones, identical for my family phones and one has long battery life, another one drains very fast. definitely a problem. i am planning to call TMO cust rep and ask for a replacement battery. Clearly the battery has some issues. It costs $35 to buy one, and i do not want to send whole phone. i hipe they replace the battery

[don_keesho]

Jay42- you're on the right track with the WiFi, but you couldn't use it at Starbucks because they charge for it. Most independent coffee shops don't charge, although with some you need to ask for a code. Also, make sure you have WiFi set as the default browser.

Anyway, so far for the most part I love the phone, but my biggest complaint is the battery life. It lasts just over a day before it needs to be completely charged, and I haven't even used the camera yet! Plus, that's with it mostly in standby mode. Has anyone else noticed this? TIA

Jay42, let me elaborate on coupondad's post because i too had problems at first getting my phone to actually get on the internet through wifi. To set WIFI as the default browser: Main Menu ->Fun&Apps ->Web Access->Browser Setup->Browser Profile->Default Profile->WIFI

Besides that you just need to connect to a network through the Settings->WIFI menu.

coupondad: did you leave wifi and bluetooth enabled? i turn all that off and my battery lasted like 3 days. I don't talk on the phone a whole lot but battery life seems quite good on mine. i did browse the internet with it for about 30 mins today on my fully charged battery and it ran down about 1/3 so that feature is obviously quite a battery hog.

[don_keesho]

Got it too - love it for the most part! 2 Things I hate the most are related to the "USB Connection" portion:

1) Am I supposed to break off that tiny little trapezoidal plastic covering from the USB Connection? It is SO HARD to clasp on and off and then it just stays in the way and it's only attached by a flimsy rubber string-like thing???

2) WHY IS IT NOT A REGULAR USB CONNECTION??? Booo - this is totally not a universal and convenient thing - for some reason I thought everything was going to be Universally USB compatible! Ugh

Any help would be appreciated for Question 1. Question 2 was rhetorical (unless it CAN be fixed somehow? :P)

1.)Don't break it off, though with time it might do it on its own. These type of plug covers are unfortunately a common thing. I wish someone would come up with a better design that isn't so hard to access and doesn't feel like it will break.

2.)Do you mean the physical plug size/shape? Or do you mean the way it is read by your computer's operating system?

My complaint with the connection is that there are like 5 different USB interface options on the phone for how it should communicate with the computer once its connected. One just for pictures, one for media sync, a modem mode for other types of file transfer, another for the memory card, and then something else. its confusing and not very user friendly.

[coupondad]

coupondad: did you leave wifi and bluetooth enabled? i turn all that off and my battery lasted like 3 days. I don't talk on the phone a whole lot but battery life seems quite good on mine. i did browse the internet with it for about 30 mins today on my fully charged battery and it ran down about 1/3 so that feature is obviously quite a battery hog.

I don't use bluetooth yet, but I might have left the wifi on...I'll have to check on that--thanks.

Yeah, I don't like that cover either...I keep my fingernails short, so I have to ask my wife or my daughter to open that little cover for me. :lol: And I first I was upset that I'd have to buy another new car charger (last phone was a RAZR), but then I found an OEM one for 5 bucks on Amazon, so that eased the pain. Another complaint I have is that the menus can be poky (like CNET mentioned), but I can live with it. Overall, I think it's a fantastic little phone. I really love that I can check my email without having to have a data plan! I've never been able to check email from my phone before. :)

Here's the CNET review for those interested: http://reviews.cnet.com/cell-phones/motorola-zine-zn5-t/4505-6454_7-33107336.html

[ToughPeanut]

Is there a way to combine this with a business promo to get a 1-yr contract?

[osagej4]

Jay42, let me elaborate on coupondad's post because i too had problems at first getting my phone to actually get on the internet through wifi. To set WIFI as the default browser: Main Menu ->Fun&Apps ->Web Access->Browser Setup->Browser Profile->Default Profile->WIFI

Besides that you just need to connect to a network through the Settings->WIFI menu.

So If I do all this, I will NOT be charged by T-Mobile for using the internet at all??? This is AMAZING if it's true!!!

[coupondad]

So If I do all this, I will NOT be charged by T-Mobile for using the internet at all??? This is AMAZING if it's true!!!

Nope...just need to make sure you find a WiFi hot spot.

[don_keesho]

Is there a way to combine this with a business promo to get a 1-yr contract?

you'll probably just have to call them and see. i have a business plan and got mine with a 1 year contract. not sure if that is relevant to a business promo though.

i would also check to see if Best Buy is still offering it for free. But you probably only have the choice of a 2 year contract through them.

So If I do all this, I will NOT be charged by T-Mobile for using the internet at all??? This is AMAZING if it's true!!!

Yeah basically that is what made this phone such an awesome deal for me. There are few if any phones out there with WIFI that you can get for cheap or free after contract that don't require a data plan. The common way is to buy an expensive unlocked phone to avoid data plans.

Of course don't expect it to replace your laptop for browsing the internet. Its really only practical for use on mobile websites and for simple things like email. For me the most useful thing will probably be google maps and google search on Google Mobile (m.google.com). Im sure I will find other useful mobile sites.

[salefan]

google maps does not work on this phone. same with google email app.

[don_keesho]

google maps does not work on this phone. same with google email app.

gmail works for me. hotmail OTOH didnt work for me. i havent tried google maps yet. did you try the regular google website maps or the mobile website google maps?

[salefan]

when i go to mobile google maps, it asks me to install a app, and when i run the app, it fails

[coupondad]

So I have the WiFi turned on on my phone right now (and for the past few days) and for the life of me, I can't figure out how to turn it off. I've gone through every menu option over and over! Could you guys help, please?

[cheaplikeafox]

So I have the WiFi turned on on my phone right now (and for the past few days) and for the life of me, I can't figure out how to turn it off. I've gone through every menu option over and over! Could you guys help, please?

settings
wifi
setup

[drpc2010]

Free Free Free

[Eddielives]

Nope...just need to make sure you find a WiFi hot spot.


Okay, I'm going to be getting this phone before Christmas whether I have to pay the $99 or not. The sales reps at the store say they are 99% sure it will go back on sale.

But anyway, I have to ask if anyone else can verify the free phone usage through any wifi hotspot. I have a wireless network at home with my internet provider. Are you guys ABSOLUTELY sure you can use this without any charges from t-mobile for phone usage or internet usage? I'm asking because it doesn't make sense for t-mobile to have it's $10 dollar unlimited hotspot calling add-on. Can't they find out if you're using a wireless network and charge you? I'm not saying I don't believe anyone saying it's free but, again, it doesn't make sense why anyone would buy the unlimited hotspot calling feature. Pardon my ignorance if I'm simply missing something but any clarification would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

[cheaplikeafox]

Okay, I'm going to be getting this phone before Christmas whether I have to pay the $99 or not. The sales reps at the store say they are 99% sure it will go back on sale.

But anyway, I have to ask if anyone else can verify the free phone usage through any wifi hotspot. I have a wireless network at home with my internet provider. Are you guys ABSOLUTELY sure you can use this without any charges from t-mobile for phone usage or internet usage? I'm asking because it doesn't make sense for t-mobile to have it's $10 dollar unlimited hotspot calling add-on. Can't they find out if you're using a wireless network and charge you? I'm not saying I don't believe anyone saying it's free but, again, it doesn't make sense why anyone would buy the unlimited hotspot calling feature. Pardon my ignorance if I'm simply missing something but any clarification would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

yes you can use the wifi with your wireless network at home...just be sure to set the default to wifi instead of tzones like someone said to do earlier in this thread. you can use any wifi network. they won't charge you for using a wireless network just like on smartphones where the wifi is free to use at certain places.

[GoldMoney]

take a look for nice cellphone

[Eddielives]

yes you can use the wifi with your wireless network at home...just be sure to set the default to wifi instead of tzones like someone said to do earlier in this thread. you can use any wifi network. they won't charge you for using a wireless network just like on smartphones where the wifi is free to use at certain places.

I want to say okay and believe this is true. But again, how does it make sense for t-mobile to have the $10 dollar unlimited hotspot calling feature if any wi-fi phone can be used on any wi-fi/hotspot connection for free anyway? Sometime I miss the obvious and feel stupid after it is pointed out to me. I just can't make sense of this. Maybe I'm paranoid but I believe they will charge you somehow if you don't have the above said add-on to your account. I really hope I'm wrong but I need a little more detailed assurance before I would assume it's free.

[cheaplikeafox]

I want to say okay and believe this is true. But again, how does it make sense for t-mobile to have the $10 dollar unlimited hotspot calling feature if any wi-fi phone can be used on any wi-fi/hotspot connection for free anyway? Sometime I miss the obvious and feel stupid after it is pointed out to me. I just can't make sense of this. Maybe I'm paranoid but I believe they will charge you somehow if you don't have the above said add-on to your account. I really hope I'm wrong but I need a little more detailed assurance before I would assume it's free.

well obviously you're not going to be able to get free wifi from the t-mobile hotspots cause you're not paying... Also, it doesn't use wifi to make calls...it's just wifi for internet. They can't charge you for using your own free wifi for internet. It's like if you have a laptop and use the wifi to get internet except it's on a much smaller screen. :look:

[coupondad]

settings
wifi
setup

Thanks!!!

Free Free Free

:confused:

take a look for nice cellphone

:confused:

[Eddielives]

well obviously you're not going to be able to get free wifi from the t-mobile hotspots cause you're not paying... Also, it doesn't use wifi to make calls...it's just wifi for internet. They can't charge you for using your own free wifi for internet. It's like if you have a laptop and use the wifi to get internet except it's on a much smaller screen. :look:

Okay I think I understand it a little better now. But now I have another question. If I pay for the hotspot feature, it says I have to have a t-mobile wireless router at home and my home will be a hotspot. Why can't I use my own wireless router?

[salefan]

tmobile wireless router is just a branded linksys router, you do not need them

[cheaplikeafox]

nevermind

[Apatel]

Anyone having problems synching contacts. My phone seems to be synching every 5 minutes, I set that no items be synched, but it keeps doing it. I was also having problems that the phone kept rebooting and would lose the network. If searching for networks, nothing would be found. I would have to restart the phone to get a network.

I just called T-mobile and they are sending a replacement phone, and I have to pay shipping :|

[coupondad]

Anyone having problems synching contacts. My phone seems to be synching every 5 minutes, I set that no items be synched, but it keeps doing it. I was also having problems that the phone kept rebooting and would lose the network. If searching for networks, nothing would be found. I would have to restart the phone to get a network.

I just called T-mobile and they are sending a replacement phone, and I have to pay shipping :|


Yeah, my phone has been doing the same types of things. What is "synching" anyway...what does it do? (Sorry, haven't read the manual yet). And mine has rebooted a few times too, but it did find the network.

Merry Christmas everyone!

[salefan]

i like it so much i have a detailed review in my blog
http://amimu.blogspot.com/2008/12/motorola-zn5.html

google maps, gmail app, opera and any java all will work. instructions and pointers to motomodding site in review. i have tons of actual photos for you to review too

please let me know your comments in my blog and any questions you have.. i have spend lot of time on phone..

[jay42]

Yeah, my phone has been doing the same types of things. What is "synching" anyway...what does it do? (Sorry, haven't read the manual yet). And mine has rebooted a few times too, but it did find the network.

Merry Christmas everyone!


My phone was doing this also. It synched so much, the battery was running out a lot quicker than it should have. I tried two things and I'm not sure if one or both of these did the trick. First, I put an old SIM card I had in the phone and when I turned the phone on a message pops up asking if I want to automatically synch (or something along those lines) and I push no.

I also called tmobile and had them turn off the synchibg feature for my account.
The first couple people I called had no idea what I was talking about and said it couldn't be done. But I was persistent and eventually got to a technician or something and he did it for me no problem. It hasn't automatically synched since I did those two things.