Communicate via iPhone/iPad from Japan?
arcook0307
member
Please pardon what may seem like a pretty basic question. This will be my first deployment. I'm new to the military life and he is not but it has been a long time since he's been in Japan. He'll be in Okinawa and I am trying to decide on a Christmas gift for him based on whether we'll be able to communicate via text/Face Time. I am uncertain what might be required (data plans?) to use an iPhone or iPad which is really what I'd like to get him. No need in buying one though if he is leaving in January and it will sit and collect dust for that length of time.
So....if we want to text or talk via FaceTime, are there extra fees involved if he is in Oki and I am in the states? I'd think there would be but I have no clue. If anyone knows anything about this feel free to fill me in. Thanks!
Re: Communicate via iPhone/iPad from Japan?
You can also iMessage (texting!) for free from iphone to iphone. I am stationed in Germany and always text my friends and family in the states. Most contracts in foreign areas will have cancellation agreements that as long as you have orders and let them know in a timely manner (e.g. not the day before you fly out!) you will not have to pay extra money.
(My experience may be a little diff. because I am germany, but apple definitely rocks for keeping in touch!)
You can also imessage from a mac using ichat if you have Mountain Lion!
We have a contract through Softbank, our iPhones were essentially free with the 2 year plan but to cancel early you will get charged upwards of $1000. Pay as you go plans are available, but I'm unsure as to the details of the contract for it. You'll get charged for 3G usage fees as well as regular phone usage. I'm not sure if they'll let you get an iPhone with a pay as you go plan. You can google it and find some info.