While I'm convinced that the Virgin Mobile USA plan is currently the most budget friendly cell phone option in the United States, I realize this isn't a practical option for everyone. I do, however, think that the price point of $25/mo with unlimited text and 300 talk minutes is the most reasonable cell phone plan available right now (2011).
I can't predict the future on Sprint's expansion and how that'll increase Virgin Mobile USA's coverage area. I am hoping in two years, our current great Virgin Mobile phones will work on the expanded network pretty much hassle-free.]
The other half of this article is about Rural Internet Access. With 4G technology expanding, high-speed Internet access will be having increasing availibity across the nation. Verizon Wireless has a teaser plan for $35/mo for 3GB of data on its slower (3G) network. Virgin Mobile USA has a $50/month for 2.5GB plan for those not wanting a contract on the Sprint-owned network.
While the Mi-Fi, in my opinion, is not the ideal solution for YouTube watchers or video gamers, it's an affordable option for families who would rather not fork over $65+ a month to a cable or phone company.
I'm a huge fan of the Verizon Mi-Fi because it's incredibly reliable and works with virtually all of my electronic devices.
Budget-wise, we're looking at $100 plus tax, for a family of four on a no-contract plan with Virgin Mobile USA, each phone getting 300 minutes and unlimited text and data. We add onto that, $35 to $50 a month for Internet access for 5 devices at home through the 3G network. This compares to about $200 per month for a family of four just for 4 cell phones 18 months when I started this site.
Things are getting much more affordable. It's time to switch the focus from technology in wireless into the software and apps that will begin to truly change lives, no matter the device user's age.