Not to be outdone, T-Mobile joins AT&T, Verizon in offering unlimited calling plans

Contrary to analyst predictions, T-Mobile is the third company to announce it will offer consumers an unlimited pricing plan today. Just like its larger competitors, AT&T and Verizon, T-Mobile’s plan will run for $100, with the added bonus of unlimited texting and picture messaging. These services typically cost T-Mobile users $15 per month when added to other plans.

First to the scene, Verizon announced its new unlimited options in the early morning, to be followed within hours by AT&T. T-Mobile, the fourth biggest wireless operator, marks the third announcement of the day. Beginning on Thursday, the plan will be available to existing and new customers on T-Mobile’s network.

Don’t forget about small provider Helio. The MVNO, which borrows Sprint’s network, lowered its unlimited calling plan to $100, down from $150, in early February. Its plan includes unlimited Web use, e-mail and text messaging. Sprint is currently in trial runs of its unlimited offerings in a few select markets, but no nationwide announcements have been made. This brings the total carriers supporting unlimited, ubiquitous calling plans to four. If today’s news is any indication, however, this is a trend that is catching on--quickly.