It looks like if you’re buying a smartphone from Verizon Wireless on or after November 14, 2008, you will be forced into buying a data plan of $29.99 or higher. According to Engadget Mobile, there is confirmation in a Verizon Wireless document that says that Pay As You Go, 10 MB data plans, and 1X Block won’t be available to smartphone users when the new data policy takes place. Now, if you want a smartphone for PIM management features only, you may find yourself adding wireless data features that you may have not considered previously.

Wireless carriers have been looking for ways to capitalize in the industry as many people already have cell phones with voice coverage. With the rising popularity of smartphones, this may be just Verizon’s tickets, although there is bound to be a few unhappy customers who have a smartphone for other smart features but not for web browsing, mobile email, or web applications.