Verizon's iPhone 4 is imminent, some things you should be aware of.

With the impending release of the iPhone 4 on Verizon's network, there are a lot of questions to be answered.  I recently called in and spoke with a customer service representative about several different things and I walked away from that conversation with very little information.

What I have found out is that the unlimited data plan for the iPhone 4 may be temporary.  Meaning, Verizon may decide to switch to a tiered pricing plan for iPhone 4 users at some point in the future.  I could not get a straight answer from the representative as to whether or not the unlimited data plan (29.99) pricing was a promotional offer or if it would be permanent for the length of the 2 year contract.  I was left with the vague sense that it would be permanent, but you should call and get your representative to document his or her answer in your account just in case it turns out later that he or she was wrong.

Next comes the insurance.  Verizon currently has no idea if Asurion will even offer iPhone insurance or not, and if they do, at what cost it will be and how much the deductible will run (Through AT&T the deductible is $199.99).  Fortunately for us, there is always Squaretrade insurance for the iPhone*.  It's relatively inexpensive ($99.00 as of this writing) and the deductible is $50.00 for a repair.  If they can't repair it, they'll cut you a check for $600.00 so you can buy another one.

AppleCare doesn't cover damage, it only covers the device from manufacturer's defects so it's not really a viable option here.

Remember to get all the facts before you order that new iPhone 4 on Verizon's network or you could see your monthly bill skyrocket. (Asurion charges $11.99 a month on AT&T's network for iPhone 4 coverage and the deductible is $199.99)

Last but not least, before buying your case or other iPhone 4 accessories, verify that it will work with your Verizon iPhone, some reports suggest that the devices may not be built exactly the same and AT&T iPhone 4 accessories may not fit your new Verizon iPhone 4.

*Squaretrade insurance does not cover loss or theft.

Search Amazon.com for iphone 4 accessories