AT&T looking to introduce family data plans

May 08, 2012 By PETER SVENSSON , AP Technology Writer

(AP) -- The head of AT&T's wireless business says he's looking to introduce plans that share a data allowance among family members, similar to the way it sells family calling plans.

AT&T's Ralph de la Vega says the company is working out the details of such plans, but has no firm launch date. Competitor Verizon Wireless has said it plans to introduce family plans this summer.

De la Vega said, "We'll introduce them when we can." He was speaking on the sidelines of the CTIA Wireless show in New Orleans, which opened Tuesday.

The plans could make data service more affordable in families where data-capable devices such as smartphones, tablets and laptops proliferate. Right now, each device needs a separate data plan.

CNET reported earlier on AT&T's plans.

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