I may be in the minority but I am ecstatic about the new iPhone 4S.  The new features could be seen as modest tweaks (faster, more memory, better antenna) but I would argue that they add up to a much richer user experience. As an original iPhone 3G (OG) user, I can attest to the significance of similar "modest" upgrades in the iPhone 3GS.  Faster isn't just faster, it's an entirely richer, less frustrating experience.  So I've decided to get the new iPhone, but I had a big concern: would I be able to keep my unlimited data plan with AT&T? Would Sprint's unlimited data plan lure AT&T customers who can no longer get the data plan I have (which they have eliminated as of last June).

Until recently all we could do was speculate. Even as the official release nears, many details about data plans for each carrier are nebulous.  I'm happy to share what I've learned and confirmed: If you currently have an iPhone with AT&T then you can upgrade your phone and keep your existing data plan. In other words, if you're grandfathered into unlimited data like I am, you do not have to give that up to get the iPhone 4S.  Great news!  I'm still curious to see what the competition offers. how much the Sprint data plans will cost. However unless they are significantly cheaper, I don't think I will leave AT&T.

Here's a snapshot of the confirmation I got from AT&T (which I later confirmed on the phone with customer service).

UPDATE: You can now pre-order the iPhone 4 from Sprint and see the plan options. Although unlimited data and text with 450 min talk time is only $69, the next screen shows a $10/month premium data charge is required for this device.  So at about $80/month before taxes, I'd be paying roughly the same as I do now with the only difference being unlimited texting (I have the cheaper 200 txts for $15 from AT&T).  Seems like saving a few dollars a month is not worth giving up faster speeds and my 5000 rollover minutes is like having unlimited voice anyway.