I believe that plan rules, rates and discounts have become complicated enough, to warrant a "full disclosure" clause which will clearly articulate what are the "MINIMUM EXPECTED COSTS" going to be for a customer in the next two contract years.
This will not only benefit customers, but also AT&T, as it will create happier, less frustrated and less "surprised" customers.
Here's a simple example of what I mean:
Assume a customer without a contract (rolling month-to-month) decides to upgrade their phone by buying a new device for a subsidized, $199 price.
Upon contract signage, the customer will be presented with a clear statement showing this:
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Your expected costs for the next two years, upon signing this contract are expected to be NO LESS than $895.79, according to the following breakdown:
Device cost: $199.00
Device taxes: $ 56.79
One-time Upgrade fee: $ 40.00
Plan rate adjustment: $600.00 ($25.00 removed discount x 24 months)
TOTAL: $859.79
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Some of you may argue that this is not necessary, you can say "Why? Can't you just add up?!"
So no, it's not about "adding up" - it's about disclosing ALL the line items.
With the recent release of iPhone 6, there are MANY users who have upgraded (for $199) and found out only after the fact, that they've lost their $25/mo "no-contract" discount.
I'm expecting AT&T to do the math for me, exactly like the math is done for me when I take a car loan or a house mortgage. I'm taking a two-year commitment and I need to know the full meaning of it.
Also, if customers are purchasing devices through other channels (Apple Store, online, etc.) the merchant handling the transaction should have the responsibility to present them with the clause.