I noticed how you couldn't answer the only question I asked you.
Why does the price of a smartphone go down if you commit to a 2 year contract?
When you avoid answering a basic question, shows how you have already lost the debate.
It doesn't matter what you say about the Echo. The vast majority of Americans understand the opportunity cost of them. They can comprehend that they already have a device that can do the exact same functions already. So they chose wisely to spend their money on gas, mortgages, tuition, vacation, food, electricity, and anything else that provides a value to them.
Last time I bought a new cell phone there was no longer an option to do a 2 year contract for the majority of phones. You either bought the phone outright or paid monthly installments. Price was the same.
I think you are just trolling, but if not, holy cow.