AT&T jacks Early Termination Fee for would-be defectors

Plan on bailing to Android on Verizon like Fake Steve Jobs?  That’s going to cost you nearly double on new plans compared to current costs because AT&T is changing its Early Termination Fees (ETF) from $175 to $325.

They also come ahead of the expected June launch of a new iteration of the Apple Inc. (AAPL) iPhone, which could potentially yield millions of subscribers signing up for fresh two-year commitments.  The iPhone is AT&T’s biggest wireless growth driver; however, the company’s contract as Apple’s sole U.S. partner is expected to end over the next year. The loss of exclusivity could enable iPhone customers–particularly those frustrated by the carrier’s network issues–to go to rivals, specifically Verizon Wireless, although high early termination fees could serve as a deterrent.  An AT&T spokesman, however, said the timing of the move wasn’t related to any device.

We’re not saying it is definitely going to happen, but if the iPhone were going to Verizon in September, this is exactly what AT&T would do (as opposed to fixing their network).

Also, $325 is what Verizon charges for their ETF.