AT&T recently launched a new AT&T Next equipment installment plan that requires a 30% downpayment on the device at the time of purchase. After the downpayment, subscribers to this plan can finance the remainder of the device over 28 months; however, they will be eligible to upgrade after making just 12 payments. "We are introducing AT&T Next 12 with Down Payment, so even more customers will now be able to receive the benefits of AT&T Next, which offers great value when combined with a Mobile Share Value plan," said AT&T. Many of today's handsets cost between $500 and $650, which means the average 30% downpayment will range from $150 to $200. None of AT&T's other Next plans require a downpayment, but they do require good credit. It is likely this new option is being offered to those who might not have strong enough credit to qualify for a normal AT&T Next plan.


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