Carrier-Financed iPhones from Apple to Be Locked to Carriers
In a move set to impact many iPhone buyers, Apple has confirmed that iPhones purchased through carrier financing from Verizon or T-Mobile will soon be locked to those networks until fully paid off. This shift marks the end of a popular workaround that allowed customers to acquire unlocked iPhones while still benefiting from carrier financing plans.
Previously, customers opting for Verizon or T-Mobile financing via Apple were able to obtain phones that were not locked to any specific network. AT&T, on the other hand, has consistently locked devices financed through its plans. This new policy aligns Verizon and T-Mobile with AT&T’s longstanding approach.
The change was first noted by a Reddit user who discovered a new FAQ item on Apple’s website addressing whether an iPhone would be unlocked. According to the update, iPhones remain unlocked when purchased outright or with Apple Card Monthly Installments. However, iPhones financed through carrier installment plans will be locked until the balance is paid.
An unlocked iPhone offers the flexibility to switch carriers or add a second eSIM for international travel, whereas a locked device restricts use to the original carrier. This can pose challenges for travelers needing to connect to local networks abroad.
Apple has not provided a detailed explanation for this policy shift. However, it could be a measure to prevent buyers from taking advantage of carrier promotions and then defaulting on payments. Carrier locking is a common practice to ensure devices with outstanding payments are not resold.
Despite these updates, Apple’s checkout process still indicates that iPhones financed through T-Mobile and Verizon are unlocked, suggesting the new policy may not yet be fully implemented.
For those looking to maintain an unlocked device, purchasing outright or using Apple Card Monthly Installments remains the best option. Once any carrier-financed iPhone is paid off, it will be unlocked.
T-Mobile Automatically Moving Legacy Plan Customers to New Plans
Some T-Mobile customers with older phone plans are receiving notifications that they’ll be transitioned to new plans automatically. This shift could result in a bill increase for some, as reported by CNET. Affected customers are being moved to updated plans to presumably streamline service offerings.
5 New Waze Features Rolling Out Now: Here Are All the Details
Google has announced several new features for Waze, enhancing its Conversational Reporting with Gemini-powered personalization. Users can now suggest map updates such as road closures or outdated addresses through voice commands, enhancing the app’s usability and accuracy.
Apple’s 2026 Back to School Offer Just Went Live in Select Countries
Apple’s annual Back to School promotion has launched in select Asian countries, offering college students and educational staff complimentary items with eligible Mac or iPad purchases. Offers vary, ranging from AirTags to AirPods, depending on the country.
For more details, read the full article Here.
“`
