Google is addressing some of the early criticisms of its highly anticipated Nexus One. The company has cut in half the equipment recovery fee (ERF) for the Nexus One to $150.
Google came under fire from critics when it came to light that customers who purchased the subsidized version of the Nexus One and then canceled their contract within 120 days of purchase would incur a $350 fee. That's in addition to any early termination fees (ETF) incurred with the carrier. More specifically, customers who terminated their contract early paid an additional $200 ETF to T-Mobile, the only carrier available through Google's Nexus One Web site.
In addition to the debate surrounding the Nexus One's ERF, customers have bemoaned a lack of customer service for the device, which is currently sold only online. Google took steps to tackle that issue, rolling out a phone support line for the Nexus One. Customers can now reach a live customer service agent by calling 1-888-48NEXUS. The line is operational from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. EST and is designed for questions about existing orders. Technical support questions are being referred to HTC customer service.
The Nexus One, which runs Android 2.1 (Eclaire), was made available online in early January from Google's new Web Store (www.google.com/phone). The phone is currently available unlocked for $529 or for $179 with a contract from T-Mobile via the Web Store. Google said it will add plans from new carrier partners Verizon Wireless and Vodafone in the U.K. by spring of 2010.