● Covered by 1 source · 1 reportMedium impact
Apple restricts unlocked iPhone purchases via carrier financing
Key points
- Apple now locks iPhones to carrier until device is paid off.
- This primarily impacts financing through T-Mobile and Verizon.
- Previously, unlocked iPhones could be bought with carrier financing.
Change in iPhone Purchase Policy
Apple and its partners have implemented a new policy regarding the purchase of iPhones through carrier financing. Previously, customers could buy an unlocked iPhone from Apple while financing through T-Mobile or Verizon, allowing users to switch carriers without restrictions.
Details of the Change
The recent update means that any iPhone financed through the AT&T Installment Plan, T-Mobile Equipment Installment Plan, or Verizon Device Payment Program will now be locked to that carrier until the device is fully paid off.
Impact on Consumers
This modification significantly affects customers who benefited from obtaining unlocked devices while enjoying carrier financing offers and trade-in deals. It prevents users from easily switching carriers or using dual SIM options during the payment period.
Industry Perspective
This adjustment is viewed as a response to carrier requests and highlights the ongoing complexities in the relationship between device manufacturers and service providers. It may lead consumers to explore alternative purchasing options, such as buying unlocked devices outright or through third-party retailers.
✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →
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Reporting from
Apple has closed a workaround that allowed customers to buy unlocked iPhones through carrier financing from T-Mobile and Verizon. This change locks iPhones to the specific carrier until fully paid off, affecting purchasing flexibility for customers.