AT&T says beginning January 8, it will rely on AT&T Next as the primary avenue through which customers will purchase handsets. This does not apply to business customers under a qualified wireless service agreement. Contracts will no longer be available from AT&T.
AT&T has historically sold handsets with two-year contracts attached to the purchase, but in recent years added the AT&T Next installment plan option. Customers have always been able to pay full price for handsets up front.
AT&T Next plans allow people to break up the device payment over 18 to 30 months to defray the cost.
Customers can buy smartphones via AT&T Next or pay full price. Verizon and T-Mobile have already done away with contracts.
