Buying a child's first cell phone as a gift
If you're planning to buy your kid's first cell phone as a gift, one option is to add a new line to your existing plan and finance the device through an installment program. Of course, you always have the option to pay for a new cell phone outright, but oftentimes, there are deals and discounts when you purchase a new phone on an installment plan. Find the best cellphone deals at AT&T
At AT&T, you can have up to ten lines total on your plan, and you save up to $10 per month on every line when you sign up for both eligible AutoPay and paperless billing with your debit card or bank account. With AT&T Unlimited Your Way®, you can choose a plan to fit the needs of each family member on your account. You can mix and match from three unlimited data plans: AT&T Unlimited Starter® SL, Unlimited Extra® EL, and Unlimited Premium® PL.1 You can even add a wearable, like a smartwatch, as an additional line on your account for $10.99 a month. Learn more about adding a line
Since kids and teenagers are known to want the latest cell phones, like iPhone 16, you might consider enrolling in the AT&T Next Up AnytimeSM program when you buy a new phone for your child. AT&T Next Up Anytime is new. It costs an extra $10 per month and allows you to upgrade early without worrying about the remaining balance of your installment plan. And every year, or once you’ve paid off one-third of your phone’s cost, you will be eligible for our smartphone deals (maximum three upgrades in a 12-month period). Learn more about AT&T Next Up Anytime
When shopping for your child, don't forget the screen protector, phone case, and maybe even an insurance plan.
If you plan to do your holiday shopping early and wrap up the new phone for a surprise, you may be able to delay activation on your new device. AT&T can future date activations up to thirty days, and your installment payments will begin on the activation date for any new line of service.
1AT&T may temporarly slow date speeds if the networks is busy.
Buying a senior a cell phone as a gift
A phone can be a thoughtful gift for a senior citizen, especially if your friend or relative is somewhat hesitant to shop for a cell phone or set up a cell phone plan on his/her own. Before purchasing, you'll want to consider how the recipient will likely use the phone.
If you're buying a phone for a senior citizen family member who'll use it often for calls and internet access, you might want to add the new line to your existing plan and finance the device through an installment program. AT&T offers cell phones at varying price points
If you're buying a phone for a senior citizen who'll likely use their cell phone sparingly, you might consider prepaid or pay-as-you-go service. AT&T Prepaid® offers a variety of prepaid plans and prepaid phones that appeal to every age group.