DROID Bionic And Accessory Bundle Costco Discussion Thread (Including Q&A from YankeeDudeL)

[thatguy188]

Question for those who got the bundle at costco. How many wall chargers did you get.I. got a total of that's including the one that came in the bionic box. I feel like im missing one for the dock.

2 wall chargers + 1 car charger is what I got.

 

[normalcyispass]

Got the bundle at Costco, but noticed that the extra battery charger doesn't seem to turn green...

Ah, so it isn't just mine.

 

[KAS]

Dude good looking out. I was going to leave to see if cypress had it. Chino hills doesn't have it and yorba linda sold out!

San dimas costco sold out of the six they had but said they would have nine more coming tomorrow.

 

[Bionic]

Got it this morning; first of 6 to pick one up. Glad to be rid of my BB! Love it so far, even more than my iPhone (yes, I'm a two-fisted mobiler). Wish I could increase the font size below the icons (I may be a mobile nerd but I'm an old mobile nerd). Had to upgrade LinkedIn--the app that was pre-loaded just throws an error. Had to upgrade Skype too. Skype Video works! Appreciate the extra battery in the Costco bundle.

 

[thatguy188]

Got the bundle at Costco, but noticed that the extra battery charger doesn't seem to turn green...

Ah, so it isn't just mine.

I don't have that problem I have the external battery charger plugged in with the actual Wall Mount & after ~ 1 1/2 hours the extra battery that came with it switched from Orange to Green.

 

[YankeeDudeL]

Ladies and gentlemen, what an amazingly crazy day!

We didn't get our shipment in till about noon, which is when I strolled on in. The kiosk was packed, I was in my street clothes, but had to jump in. After alleviating some of the chaos, more chaos ensued. Verizon's system was ssslllooowww. Activations were ssslllooowwweeerrr. We were wondering if we got a bad batch, as people were having trouble connecting to the internet, if they could get their Bionics activated. That's when it occurred to me that we are in a commercial area with about 6 Verizon retailers hitting off of what I'm sure is only one tower. Looks like Verizon, Motorola, and Google have got their wish; the Bionic is an immediate success.

So anyway, I've got my Bionic and bundle, and it's everything I could have hoped for already. I'm in love. I hope those of you who were lucky to get a hold of one are too, and those who haven't been lucky, don't fret. Your day is coming SOON!

Costco sold the last Bionic while I was on my way there... they said maybe Monday they'd get more... Yankee any idea on the accuracy of this?

Very accurate. They ordered us an additional 6 more yesterday that should hopefully arrive tomorrow, and should be expecting a regular sized order on Monday. WITH the bundle! So don't give up hope if you want this great deal, it's going on for a while.

Got the bundle at Costco, but noticed that the extra battery charger doesn't seem to turn green...

How long did you let it charge? Took mine at least 2 hours, maybe 3 before it turned green. If it doesn't work and you want it to, bring all the accessories with you and you can exchange them.

 

[UncleMike]

I got to the Marlboro NJ store at 8:30 (they open at 10:00), and nobody was waiting at the door. Seeing a lone car with someone in it one aisle over, I decided to wait at the door. I was soon joined by the guy in the other car, who said he got there at 7:30. By opening, 3 more had shown up.

We approached the kiosk only to be told the Bionic was not in yet, and we should try back around noon. Within 10 minutes, the phones mysteriously arrived, and had snagged 2 of 6.

It was almost 2 hours later that I finally walked out the door with the phone, after the printer ran out of toner, and they were unable to print contracts.

It was all worth it in the end... I'm a happy camper.

Thanks to YankeeDudeL for keeping us all informed.

 

[Rhystatic]

Ya so I went to my costco. There were 4 reps. I asked specifically about the Bionic, the bundle, etc. All 4 reps ignored me. I said loudly to my sister "Yes this is the phone I'm thinking about getting. My line is eligible for an upgrade."

They didn't care. I walked out. Maybe I'll be back. WTB Nexus Prime

Edit: Yes probably a rare instance. And no, 1 rep was pretty much afk at the kiosk zoned out, one was restocking something and the other 2 were sitting in front just chit chatting.

I'm just stubborn.

 

[xmr405o]

Ladies and gentlemen, what an amazingly crazy day!

We didn't get our shipment in till about noon, which is when I strolled on in. The kiosk was packed, I was in my street clothes, but had to jump in. After alleviating some of the chaos, more chaos ensued. Verizon's system was ssslllooowww. Activations were ssslllooowwweeerrr. We were wondering if we got a bad batch, as people were having trouble connecting to the internet, if they could get their Bionics activated. That's when it occurred to me that we are in a commercial area with about 6 Verizon retailers hitting off of what I'm sure is only one tower. Looks like Verizon, Motorola, and Google have got their wish; the Bionic is an immediate success.

So anyway, I've got my Bionic and bundle, and it's everything I could have hoped for already. I'm in love. I hope those of you who were lucky to get a hold of one are too, and those who haven't been lucky, don't fret. Your day is coming SOON!



Very accurate. They ordered us an additional 6 more yesterday that should hopefully arrive tomorrow, and should be expecting a regular sized order on Monday. WITH the bundle! So don't give up hope if you want this great deal, it's going on for a while.



How long did you let it charge? Took mine at least 2 hours, maybe 3 before it turned green. If it doesn't work and you want it to, bring all the accessories with you and you can exchange them.

Looks like today was a feeler day for costco. Have six in stock to see how sales goes, well I think it met their expectations. Lol. That promo is the best!

Also, activating our phones was slow until the rep told us to turn off our old phones and all of a sudden activating the bionics went faster. might help you guys for this weekends rush.

Good luck yankee!

 

[RDKamikaze]

Holy crappy i shpuld hqve checked this forum sooner, i was told they would be stocked on the 13th so i didnt even try today! I havent read this thread all the way yet but I have a few questions:
1. If I'm still in my 90 days trial period I can exchange and pay the price difference, right?
2. If I can exchange my phone do I need to have all accessories or is it ok if the cheap leather case is missing?
3. Will Costco plan to sell the HD media dock as well or just the basic charging dock?
4. How long does the promo package plan to run for? If I put myself on a next availavle list, will I be honored for the bundle?

Thanks for this awesome thread, I have a lot to catch up on now haha!

 

[Mahalo]

Thank you for this!! Placed my order successfully. Now just MORE WAITING!!!

I called and asked about this. They confirmed over and over that it is the same bundle as in the store. (Heads will roll if it isn't!)

One KEY thing I think needs to be mentioned is that, after you place your order, if you are currently on Unlimited Data you need to CALL and have them notate on your account that you wish to keep it!!!

As far as I know it is gorilla glass, I would not be too concerned, My unprotected Incredible went over a year and a half in my pocket with keys, buck knives and assorted sundry and is unblemished.

 

[YankeeDudeL]

Ya so I went to my costco. There were 4 reps. I asked specifically about the Bionic, the bundle, etc. All 4 reps ignored me. I said loudly to my sister "Yes this is the phone I'm thinking about getting. My line is eligible for an upgrade."

They didn't care. I walked out. Maybe I'll be back. WTB Nexus Prime

Edit: Yes probably a rare instance. And no, 1 rep was pretty much afk at the kiosk zoned out, one was restocking something and the other 2 were sitting in front just chit chatting.

I'm just stubborn.

I think you did the right thing. It appears they had no interest in your business. I wouldn't hassle them with it. However, the next time you do make it into that Costco, I would ask for both the district manager and regional manager's business card. They have them, don't let em tell ya otherwise. If they persist, get the numbers and email addresses. That is completely unacceptable. When I got in to purchase my phone (wasn't scheduled to work until 4 hours later), the two WSEs on duty were knee deep in customers, and had acknowledged and addressed each and every one. When I stepped in to help my KM directed me to the needs of each customer. And they had 4 on duty? We're not supposed to have more than 2 at a time.

I duly apologize that your needs weren't met today. We set high expectations of ourselves so that we always meet yours. I hope you get the chance to visit a different location to see that in action.

Looks like today was a feeler day for costco. Have six in stock to see how sales goes, well I think it met their expectations. Lol. That promo is the best!

Also, activating our phones was slow until the rep told us to turn off our old phones and all of a sudden activating the bionics went faster. might help you guys for this weekends rush.

Good luck yankee!

And that's apparently what today was. As my KM pointed out to me, this is the most expensive phone Costco has ever sold, and our clientele tends to look for more affordable options. Seems they wanted to get a feel for it. Apparently, the value of this great offer was lost on no one.

I never thought of that of turning the old phone off, I'll def give that a try with our next shipement. Thanks for the advice!

Holy crappy i shpuld hqve checked this forum sooner, i was told they would be stocked on the 13th so i didnt even try today! I havent read this thread all the way yet but I have a few questions:
1. If I'm still in my 90 days trial period I can exchange and pay the price difference, right?
2. If I can exchange my phone do I need to have all accessories or is it ok if the cheap leather case is missing?
3. Will Costco plan to sell the HD media dock as well or just the basic charging dock?
4. How long does the promo package plan to run for? If I put myself on a next availavle list, will I be honored for the bundle?

Thanks for this awesome thread, I have a lot to catch up on now haha!

We're glad you found it. While I'm pretty sure each of those questions have at least been addressed, this particular thread has exploded. So I have no issue reiterating, as it'll help the next guy as well.

1. You have until the first 14 days after your purchase to exchange your phone for a diff model. After that, you have until 90 days to exchange the phone for the same model. That is the policy. Sometimes there are exceptions to the rule depending on circumstances, and it's always a judgement call on the WSE (Wireless Sales Expert) and the KM (Kiosk Manager). So it may be possible, but I wouldn't count on it. Especially with us having such limited stock to start with.

2. Yes, you will need all your accessories. When it's the same one, you can just keep the ones you have, but diff models come with diff packages. Costco won't accept the return without them.

3. Just the standard dock. It's rare that such a bundle comes with a phone from Costco, and they won't sell any accessories outright by themselves. Not that I wouldn't love that myself.

4. Hard to tell. I remember seeing an email that gave a time frame of the 28th. But that might mean the last shipments will be in then, and they'll then go till they're sold. Of course, I may have misunderstood the email, but there's a lil time to spare, yet.

Glad to provide the insight. I've gained a lot of knowledge from this site, so much in fact that I know work in the field. This was a way of giving back, for me. This is a great lil community we have here, welcome to it!

 

[xmr405o]

To Yankee

I know you weren't the one who sold me the phone but thanks for all your help with answering our questions and all the info! You provided great customer service.

 

[YankeeDudeL]

To Yankee

I know you weren't the one who sold me the phone but thanks for all your help with answering our questions and all the info! You provided great customer service.

You're quite welcome and thanks to all of you as well. If not for the great users of this site to help guide me in the ways of Android, I'd never be in the position I am now. I'm forever grateful.

Ladies and gents (and the remaining 75% ), we've got a long and wild ride ahead of us. Viva la Bionic!

 

[thatguy188]

Always helpful, always honest and accurate answers -- Yankee, thanks a lot for everything man! I was able to snag one yesterday morning and I couldn't be happier!

 

[Vehtemas]

Ah, so it isn't just mine.

I don't have that problem I have the external battery charger plugged in with the actual Wall Mount & after ~ 1 1/2 hours the extra battery that came with it switched from Orange to Green.

Maybe the batteries I had just took longer... I will leave my second battery on the extra charger while I am at work.

Ladies and gentlemen, what an amazingly crazy day!

We didn't get our shipment in till about noon, which is when I strolled on in. The kiosk was packed, I was in my street clothes, but had to jump in. After alleviating some of the chaos, more chaos ensued. Verizon's system was ssslllooowww. Activations were ssslllooowwweeerrr. We were wondering if we got a bad batch, as people were having trouble connecting to the internet, if they could get their Bionics activated. That's when it occurred to me that we are in a commercial area with about 6 Verizon retailers hitting off of what I'm sure is only one tower. Looks like Verizon, Motorola, and Google have got their wish; the Bionic is an immediate success.

So anyway, I've got my Bionic and bundle, and it's everything I could have hoped for already. I'm in love. I hope those of you who were lucky to get a hold of one are too, and those who haven't been lucky, don't fret. Your day is coming SOON!



Very accurate. They ordered us an additional 6 more yesterday that should hopefully arrive tomorrow, and should be expecting a regular sized order on Monday. WITH the bundle! So don't give up hope if you want this great deal, it's going on for a while.



How long did you let it charge? Took mine at least 2 hours, maybe 3 before it turned green. If it doesn't work and you want it to, bring all the accessories with you and you can exchange them.

Yankee, would I have to exchange the phone too? And I already have some of the accessories set up...

 

[RDKamikaze]

Thanks for the info Yankee, you rock! However that's terrible to hear i can only swap a Thunderbolt for another Thunderbolt after 14 days, my rep has a lot of explaining to do as when i got the phone I verified what he said about trading for any other phone in the 90 days five different times.

I'll see what happens, here's to hoping lol!

 

[AurJohn]

Thanks yankee!! Because of you, I found out about the Costco deal (we shop there all the time btw, great store) and I got this amazing deal! I still can't believe I got the 1st one the store had, and while the rep was pulling up all the paperwork, they sold out of the other 4!! (He was saving one for himself)... Awesome, thanks again Yankee!

 

[bigbabys]

As far as I know it is gorilla glass, I would not be too concerned, My unprotected Incredible went over a year and a half in my pocket with keys, buck knives and assorted sundry and is unblemished.

Did you mean to quote me with that post

 

[DaretoDroid2]

Hey Yankee,

I was wondering if I have a NE2 discount will that be applied to the $299 total? I assume I would have to pay before I walk out of the store unlike at a VZW retail store where I can bill my account?

 

[thenew3]

Hey Yankee,

I was wondering if I have a NE2 discount will that be applied to the $299 total? I assume I would have to pay before I walk out of the store unlike at a VZW retail store where I can bill my account?

This has been answered many times before. No your NE2 discount will not be applied at costco. NE2 can only be used when purchasing directly from VZW.
And yes you'll have to pay for it before you walk out the store. Actually you have to pay for it before they even activate the phone.
The only place you can bill to your VZW account is at a VZW store or VZW online or VZW telesales.

 

[bdrobet]

I just wanted to say that the wireless employees at my costco were amazing to deal with. They called me to let me know when the shipment was coming in since I had expressed so much interest in it. They handled their many customers on launch day professionally and as quickly as humanly possible. I couldnt be happier and will never buy a phone from anywhere other than costco in the future!

 

[kath00]

I just wanted to say that the wireless employees at my costco were amazing to deal with. They called me to let me know when the shipment was coming in since I had expressed so much interest in it. They handled their many customers on launch day professionally and as quickly as humanly possible. I couldnt be happier and will never buy a phone from anywhere other than costco in the future!

So glad you loved them. I have nothing good to say so far. I have 3 costco's near me (sort of, each is about 30 miles away). Yesterday I went to one and they were sold out by the time I got there (9:30 but 8 people ahead of me!). Called today and they said nothing in stock till the 13th.

Called other costco today and guy said "we have 43 people on waitlist". What waitlist?? He said 2-3 weeks to wait and then just hung up.

Third cosco lady was nicest. Said probably shipment today, call back at 1pm. DH went up there just now and other person said, nope, no shipment today. SORRY! What the heck?!?!

Oh, forgot I ordered on costco.com online yesterday. Called today because they charged me sales tax on $600 instead of $299 like the local Costcos. They said sorry, it's the way it is. Then the lady said, "oh and it will take 2 weeks to ship!" WHA??? She said 5 business days to process and 5 business days via UPS with no guarantee of it being in stock even though they charged my card. I cancelled the order. Frankly I would rather pick up just a phone at the local VZW store at this rate and pay the $259 they quoted me over the phone. Then I will have it in hand at least with no BS about "out of stock but you have ot pay for it".

Very poorly handled IMHO. Dont tell me they didn't see this demand for the last 9 months! UGH

Katherine

 

[bigbabys]

So glad you loved them. I have nothing good to say so far. I have 3 costco's near me (sort of, each is about 30 miles away). Yesterday I went to one and they were sold out by the time I got there (9:30 but 8 people ahead of me!). Called today and they said nothing in stock till the 13th.

Called other costco today and guy said "we have 43 people on waitlist". What waitlist?? He said 2-3 weeks to wait and then just hung up.

Third cosco lady was nicest. Said probably shipment today, call back at 1pm. DH went up there just now and other person said, nope, no shipment today. SORRY! What the heck?!?!

Oh, forgot I ordered on costco.com online yesterday. Called today because they charged me sales tax on $600 instead of $299 like the local Costcos. They said sorry, it's the way it is. Then the lady said, "oh and it will take 2 weeks to ship!" WHA??? She said 5 business days to process and 5 business days via UPS with no guarantee of it being in stock even though they charged my card. I cancelled the order. Frankly I would rather pick up just a phone at the local VZW store at this rate and pay the $259 they quoted me over the phone. Then I will have it in hand at least with no BS about "out of stock but you have ot pay for it".

Very poorly handled IMHO. Dont tell me they didn't see this demand for the last 9 months! UGH

Katherine

I ordered online and my total was $299 with tax. They said nothing about 5 day processing (site says 24 hours to process) and the shipping was FREE. 5 days is not too bad for FREE SHIPPING but if you wanted to pay you could have gotten 2 day for $12.95...

Seems like you are complaining to justify not getting the bundle

 

[murraj2]

I ordered online and my total was $299 with tax. They said nothing about 5 day processing (site says 24 hours to process) and the shipping was FREE. 5 days is not too bad for FREE SHIPPING but if you wanted to pay you could have gotten 2 day for $12.95...

Seems like you are complaining to justify not getting the bundle

The sales tax thing actually varies by state. I know in California if you have a device with a supplemented cost, you pay tax on the full retail price. Instead of Complaining to Costco about it, she should probably write her state legislators.