Bell launched their new network today, bringing with it a new veriety of popular mobile phones. I’ve wanted an iPhone since its launch in the United States so I thought maybe I could now find a good deal, seeing how we have three national carries competing for iPhone business.
No such luck. Bell, Telus and Rogers are all selling the phone for the same price and contact terms. Service plans are also the same.
When I visited Bell’s web site I was greeted by a pop-up window asking me if I wanted to chat with a sales representives. I said yes. Here is the chat transcript.
It’s funny.
Sandy: Hello and welcome to Bell’s chat service. How may I provide you with excellent service today?
Andrew: I am thinking about getting an iPhone. Why should I choose Bell over Rogers or Telus? There does not appear to be a financial incentive.
Sandy: Sure, I can definitely help you with your request.
Sandy: Bell provides good signal and services.
Andrew: Bell’s new network is also Telus’ network. So, again, why should I choose one or the other?
Andrew: Hello?
Sandy: I am sorry for the delay.
Andrew: It’s ok.
Sandy: I am sorry, all the Iphones are same.
Sandy: There is no such difference between the providers.
Andrew: So I should just choose Rogers or Telus?
Sandy: It is your wish to choose the providers.
Sandy: As I know, Bell provides wonderful Iphones.
Sandy: Which will be more useful for your needs.
Andrew: They’re all the same, though, right?
Andrew: The iPhones, that is.
Sandy: Yes, you are right.
Andrew: Do you think Bell could offer me a better rate than Telus or Rogers? Even $5 cheaper?
Andrew: For the plan, not the phone.
Sandy: Please click here to view the data plans for Iphones./
Andrew: Is that a coupon link?
Sandy: It is link for data plans for iphones which Bell provides.
Andrew: Bell provides the same rates as Telus and Rogers. Can you offer me a cheaper plan?
Sandy: Do you have any services with Bell?
Andrew: No, I am with Koodo right now.
Sandy: Welcome to Bell.
Sandy: I am sorry, this is the only plans Bell provides for Iphones,
Sandy: It is not my fault, however Bell provides those plans.
Andrew: I know it is not your fault. I was just hoping someone in sales could maybe offer me incentive to sign a three-year contract.
Sandy: I am sorry, I would love to help you in this regard, however I don’t have authority to provide you any incentives.
Andrew: It’s OK.
Andrew: Thank you for your time.
Sandy: You are most welcome Andrew.
Sandy: Thank you for choosing bell.ca. Have a nice day.
Andrew: You too. Bye.
Sandy: Bye. Take Care.
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Telus doesn’t ~officially~ released their plan prices until tomorrow, I think, but I’ve seen leaks from “anonymous tipsters” that look plausible enough here: http://www.iphoneincanada.ca/iphone-news/iphone-price-plans-for-telus-bell-rogers-fido/. Based on that, they’re looking like the clear winner.
A+ chat with Sandy though.
I love the “Welcome to Bell” midway through the conversation, and the fact that a Bell I-Phone will be more useful for your needs, even though they’re all the same. Oh Sandy, I want to have a conversation with you too.
i had a ridiculous online chat session with a representative from Hot Topic today.
The syntax from Sandy reads like ESL, probably via India, They didn’t seem to get what you were trying to ask at all…
Something to try with Telus is to call and simply ask for a better rate. I’ve been with Telus for years and have always been happy with them, and on several occasions, I’ve called and re-negotiated my contract to get more for less.