If you had any plans on jumping on board with Sprint’s unlimited plans and aren’t looking to pick up a 4G device, do so before January 30th. If not, you’ll be subject to the same $10 premium that 4G/WiMax users are already encountering. Via Sprint’s own website today, the carrier announced the change as a means to continue offering the truly unlimited plans as well as help with the carrier’s next generation WiMax rollout.

The charge will assist Sprint in offering simple and affordable unlimited plans for its customers while maintaining a wireless network able to meet the growing appetite for a richer mobile experience.

While it is unfortunate that people who can’t even tap into the faster network now have to pay for the privilege anyway, we can understand Sprint’s position. With Verizon’s LTE rollout putting Sprint’s 2-year+ ventures to shame, Sprint really needs to do something, and quick.

Source: Sprint