AT&T changes early upgrade and no-commitment pricing

AT&T has increased its early upgrade and no-commitment prices for new phones. Early upgrade pricing affects those who want to get a new handset but are not eligible for an upgrade, while no-commitment pricing affects those who do not want to sign a new contract.

For early upgrades, pricing will go up to $50 for smartphones and $10 for other phones. For no-commitment deals, fees will increase by $50 for smartphones except for the iPhone and $20 for other phones.

AT&T spokesman Seth Bloom told CNET in an e-mail that "as mobile devices become more sophisticated, their cost goes up. This change reflects the increased costs, while still allowing us to offer customers the latest device before they qualify. We're happy to discuss individual account and upgrade needs one-on-one with customers."