The Google Chromebook Pixel, a $1,450 device that's got a lot going for it: a high pixel density multitouch display; 4 GB RAM; Core i5 processor and a free, two-year, 100 MB-per-month data plan from Verizon. Nope, wait — scratch that last one. (Via Google)
According to JR Raphael — an editor for Computerworld and Chromebook Pixel owner — despite Google and Verizon's promise to early Pixel-adopters, Verizon pulled the "data plan plug" after only one year of service. (Via Flickr / Morid1n, Joe Wilcox)
Raphael said he contacted Verizon and Google after he noticed he was no longer receiving 100 MB of data per month. "Verizon is telling customers that as far as it's concerned, the plans were valid only for one year." (Via Computerworld)
But Google now appears to be offering a consolation prize of sorts. According to Raphael, a Google spokesperson says the tech company "will now offer $150 credits to all customers who purchased an LTE Pixel while the two-year data plan was still being offered."
And while Verizon's initial response was to deny the two-year plan, Raphael says the company is now taking a different approach. A spokesperson says the company is "working on a solution for [affected] customers." (Via Flickr / neohippie, Adam Dachis)
Google's Chromebook Pixel product page no longer lists the free data perk.
Some users are upset because the free data perk may have helped convince them to purchase the device.
"Frankly, 100 MB of LTE service isn't much, but that's not really the point. ... The bigger issue here is Verizon reneging on a deal that may have had some influence on purchase decisions." (Via GigaOM)
"Even though 100MB a month isn't a lot, it makes it handy to check mail or messages when you can't get to proper WiFi." (Via Android Central)
"It was a feature, and gave owners a reason to spend for the LTE variant rather than the WiFi version." (Via SlashGear)
Users might have an opportunity to vent their frustrations. A Boston-based law firm has already issued a press release announcing it has "commenced an investigation into potential breaches of contract, fraudulent misrepresentations, and/or violations of state consumer protection laws." (Via PR Newswire / Block & Leviton LLP)
