Alltel Wireless is changing up its “My Circle” proposition, adding texting to the offer. Now, My Circle customers can send and receive unlimited text/video/pictures messages to anyone in their “circle,” as well as other Alltel customers, with message packs that start at $7.99 a month.
Alltel also introduced new My Circle Family Choice Plus plans. For $84.99 a month, customers can get two lines with 1,000 shares minutes and the ability to call any 10 numbers on any network. Customers also can get two lines with 2,000 shared minutes and unlimited calling within their circle of 20 numbers for $114.99. Family Choice plan customers get unlimited mobile-to-mobile calls and unlimited nights and weekends.
The changes are part of Alltel’s plan all along to evolve My Circle, said Garry Bledsoe, vice president of pricing strategy at Alltel. In January, the carrier launched the Circle 5 and 20 plans.
Alltel isn’t targeting any particular demographic with the texting plans, as text messaging has moved beyond the younger demographic to include other age groups, he said.
Alltel has been making several announcements of late while it goes through the process of being acquired by Verizon Wireless. Until the deal is done, it’s business as usual, he said.
