Verizon Wireless just rolled out some of the most appealing data packages we've ever seen from the carrier. There's one big problem, though. These "Max" tiers — which offer 6GB of wireless data for $30 and 8GB for $50 — are only available if you're financing a device through the just-launched Edge upgrade service. As we've examined at length, these "affordable" plans that let customers upgrade their device more often are a terrible deal for most.
But Verizon is no doubt hoping the savings here will be enough to lure customers away from grandfathered unlimited contracts. At $50, the 8GB tier is particularly attractive since it includes tethering. Regular, non-Edge subscribers pay more to receive smaller chunks of data. But when you factor in the monthly charge that will be lumped onto your bill with Edge upgrades, Verizon's new tiers suddenly lose their luster. If you're dead set on monthly installments on that new Moto X or HTC One, however, it's an option. An option that reportedly will only be available for a limited time.