(21 February 2008 8:00 pm)

MUMBAI: It is time for wireless users to smile in the US with the price war getting sour. The three big wireless companies AT&T, Verizon and T-mobile have introduced unlimited calling plans for $99.99 per month.

AT&T's unlimited plan has no domestic roaming or long distance charges. The plans can be combined with any current wireless data plan to give customers the ultimate in wireless freedom. Existing customers can choose unlimited calling without extending their contract. New customers have the option of a month-to-month, 12 or 24-month contract. Data plan options include $5 for 200 text, picture, video and instant messages or $35 for unlimited messaging and MEdia Net access.

The Verizon Wireless also has new 'nationwide unlimited anytime minute plan' at a flat rate of $99.99 per month. Its BroadbandAccess plans are also being enhanced with two new choices for internet browsing, e-mail access and downloading files: 50 MB data usage for $39.99 monthly access or 5 GB data usage for $59.99 monthly access.

The unlimited nationwide wireless calling and unlimited nationwide messaging for $99.99 per month plan has been announced by T-Mobile. Domestic roaming and long distance charges are included. Unlimited messaging includes text messages (SMS), picture messages (MMS) and instant messages (IM).

This move may change the way users use cellphone. It will be more like service for a fixed amount like watching cable television.

Speculations are rife that Sprint, US's third-largest carrier may also announce a nationwide flat-rate offering.