Navigating an iPhone purchase
 

So the Mrs. and I are sans contract right now with AT&T. I'm thinking of upgrading to an iPhone, since we have a credit where it would cost nothing to buy the phone. But I'm trying to be smart about this. I know these cell phone contracts are sneaky as hell, and I'm trying to be as knowledgeable as possible before doing this. I'm sure a few of you on here have an iPhone, and so I have some questions:

--If I'm reading AT&T's site right, the data plan for iPhone does not cover text messaging. Is that correct?
--Is the $69 protection plan worth it?
--What is the bottom line price of your monthly bill? And if you could break it down for me (including the type of plan you have), that would be swell.

TIA.

My bill is $85 a month. I think it does include text messages (but would have to check). I don't have the protection plan (and I don't even remember being offered it) but generally those things are a waste of money.

I have the lowest amount of minutes, and never use them up. But I use the data stuff constantly, so am very happy with the flat rate system they have. I have good coverage in my town, so that's not a problem.

And, the iphone is the coolest gadget eva! I'm so happy with mine.

Text messaging is extra
 

I think Text Messaging is extra. They have to make money somehow.

However, I'd go for a refurb iPhone 3G if you can get it for free, it's cheaper.

Knowing you, the data plan will be your big usage. The protection plan is worth it if you break a phone. They will FedEx you a phone the next day, and I've done that. It saved my ass with a Blackberry.

I'd also get a GoPhone if I were you. Not to use it, but to keep as a backup in case you break the iPhone. You can pop in the SIM Card and be in business in minutes.

I checked my plan and I have the minimum texting in my package: $5 for 200 texts per month. No way do I make 200 texts, so I'm gold. I have the 450/5000 minute call plan, which is also the minimum. I've used 35 of my 450 minutes, and 1 of my 5000 minutes. Unlimited data. The monthly plan (including texts, data, and calls) is about $75, with tax around $85. It's a pretty good deal for me.

I also have a backup (home) phone, thru Virgin Mobile which runs me $21 for 3 months.

Yes, you have to buy texting separately, although if you are a big texter, they have a bundle that includes it with your data plan. You are required to get the unlimited data plan.

Yes, the protection plan is a good idea, especially given the likelihood that you will drop and/or run over the iPhone.

I have other extra crap added on, my bill runs around $100/month, probably would be closer to $85 without the other subscription stuff.