Once you wade through all the iPad launch hype, you’ll find T-Mobile trying to stir up some buzz of its own with an interesting trade-in offer that it hopes will turn some cost-conscious heads.
T-Mobile is seeking attention for its HTC HD2 device by offering consumers up to a $350 discount — if they have an iPhone to trade in on the deal. News sites are publishing copies of internal T-Mobile communications that mention the upcoming deal that is akin to a car salesman’s pitch to trade up.
“If this thing was an Android, I would think that was something I’d want to look at,” said Mike Disabato, a senior analyst at the Burton Group, a division of Gartner. “If you are a dot-net shop, you will love it. If you are not a dot-net shop, there’s no compelling business reason to go get it. And oh, by the way, the iPad is out.”
Leaked T-Mobile Memo
A leaked internal T-Mobile memo reads, “Great news for Apple iPhone customers who want to purchase an HTC HD2 — from April 1 through May 19, customers can trade in their Apple iPhone and get up to a $350 credit when purchasing an HTC HD2 at participating T-Mobile dealers, through 1-800-TMOBILE, or through a business direct sales representative.”
There are plenty of requirements, however. First, the iPhone has to be working. Customers who trade in a working iPhone to purchase the HTC HD2 are eligible for a $100 minimum credit. By working, T-Mobile means the iPhone has to be functional and in working condition. The screen can’t be damaged, broken or leaking. And there can be no liquid damage or corrosion.
Consumers don’t have to activate the HD2, and consumers can purchase an HD2 at full price without activating it. Consumers don’t have to purchase a data plan to…