Gizmodo asks a pretty good question today. They wonder why AT&T is charging for their 3G Microcell adapter boxes when companies like Sprint and Tmobile often subsidize the cost for users in known dead spot areas. Microcells are similar to Wifi Access points except they broadcast a 3G signal like a 3G cell tower.
Subsidization really makes sense because the carrier is using the customer's bandwidth to provide 3G access. Charging a monthly fee, in this case $20/month, for the customer to use their own bandwidth seems like a bit of a dick move.
Sure the box costs money to build and support, but
