Yeah, it has got a lot better in recent years. I know it used to be pretty bad, but when the iphone came out, the other companies had to change their pricing model to compete.

Erm, I know that the plans here in Germany aren't the best, but you obviously haven't looked very hard at the deals out there as what you are saying in clearly false.

o2 Germany offer 1gig/month (there after at 2.5g speeds, unlimited) as a bolt on for 15 euros/month which can be cancelled with 3 months notice. 25 euros/month gives you unlimited 3g. In fact, if all you want to do is check email, 5 euros a month gives you 20mb of 3g speed and unlimited 2.5g a month. Couple that with a 10 euro base plan (which gives you 100minutes talk time and 100sms), that is only 15 euros a month. (www.o2online.de)

Then there is Blau.de which offer a similar package for under 10 euros/month for data and a 4euro option for voice. The blau plan runs on a month by month basis as well, so no 2 year contract. Oh, and you could look at e-plus as well, which offer similar priced plans.

About the only company out here that does tend to be expensive is vodafone.

I have never used a locked and subsidised phone here in Germany and have managed fine with reasonable rates. Maybe you need to look a bit harder for decent plans... (although it isn't that hard really). I think you need to change provider...