RSP

From: Roger Parsons [mailto:RSParsons@comcast.net]
Sent: Friday, December 07, 2012 11:29 AM
To: Hollister, Brad (Executive Case Specialist, Audi of America)
Cc: Keogh, Scott (President, Audi of America); Donnellan, Peter (Director After Sales, Audi of America)
Subject: FW: Audi Connect T-Mobile Subscription Renewal

...I was disappointed to learn that Audi is still going to maintain the strict eligibility for the long term, reduced fee Audi Connect/T-Mobile subscription extension plan and not make it retroactive for existing Audi customers.

I am pleased that Audi is now surveying their customers as to what they would like to see in future Audi Connect capabilities. I have filled out and returned my survey and I’m sure many other will do the same.

joseaudi

So a minor feature like Audi connect ( which you can hook up with cheaper alternatives: tru) will stop you from buying this car? You must really be dissatisfied with your purchase if you're hung up on this detail.

snagitseven

I appreciate how one could feel this way. I keep cleaning my A6 but it just keeps getting dirty again. Audi never disclosed this in their literature. At $65K, I shouldn't have to put up with this. Last time I'll buy an Audi ever again.

Dramsey

Fwiw, the $450 T Mobile deal seems to have vanished with the start of the new year. At least that's what I was told when I called T Mobile the day after I picked up the car...

s5blitzer

No remote start and car gets dirty over and over again, you all are making me reconsider why I got my S6. Maybe it is time to trade in my 1 month old car.

s5blitzer

More info here:

https://www.audiworld.com/forums/sho....php?t=2840426

During the promo period, one had to sign up within 7 days after taking delivery. In many cases, the dealer was unaware and some missed the opportunity.

Regardless, there are multiple threads about using T-Mobile compatible SIM cards (e.g. PTEL) that works well as a pay as you go option.

alvam

I got the $450 when I took delivery last Friday. The sales guy did everything for me online and bing, bang, boom I was set up when I drove off the lot. I did reach out to him prior to delivery day and let him know that I had heard the deal was expired and that I wanted the $450 deal but I don't know if he did anything special. He just asked for my CC it was done for that price. On a side note, it was interesting when I asked for the red grommet cable because the sales guy didn't know that video does not show up on the blue. Sales guy was great and deal went smooth but it pays to do your own homework and listen to the experience of the good folks on here.

donb4325

I love my car, but the data plan monopoly is a bit off-putting, no?

that

s5blitzer

I agree! However, keep in mind that in order for T-Mobile to invest in the technology with Audi, there had to be a partnership that guarantees T-Mobile a return on their initial investment.

No difference with the cellular/mobile business here in the US where one is stuck with certain carriers (e.g. AT&T/T-Mobile vs Verizon vs Sprint, etc) and have to use "their" phones. Europe has more of an open infrastructure.

Which is why I have, for many years, paid more for an unlocked phone (e.g. $700 instead of discounted, new contract $300) and have the flexibility.

snagitseven

As has been pointed out, there are less expensive alternatives - lots of posts on those if you take the time to search. Since Audi does not "lock down" the Audi Connect, you can use these other alternative sims and plans without "jail breaking". So, it's easier than many phones and not really a monopoly other than the usual, unavoidable cellular technology limitations.