Apple closes unlocked iPhone financing route for T-Mobile and Verizon
TL;DR
Apple added carrier locks to T-Mobile and Verizon financing until the iPhone is paid off.
Apple Stores used to provide unlocked iPhones to buyers financing through T-Mobile or Verizon, but a July update now keeps both categories locked until the device is paid off. Apple's purchase-page FAQ added the two carriers to its exceptions; AT&T-financed iPhones were already locked.
The text says iPhones financed through the AT&T Installment Plan, T-Mobile Equipment Installment Plan or Verizon Device Payment Program remain tied to that carrier until paid in full. During the lock, buyers cannot directly switch to another US network or add another provider's eSIM while traveling.
The restriction follows carrier financing only. Devices bought outright or through Apple Card Monthly Installments remain unlocked, and Apple still offers a "Connect to a carrier later" choice. MacRumors found on July 15 that parts of checkout still described T-Mobile and Verizon devices as unlocked, indicating that page text had not fully caught up.
Apple did not explain the change; the option to switch carriers during the installment period is gone.
The policy changes payment and network configuration, not the iPhone 17 Pro's A19 Pro chip or Apple Intelligence. Apple's FAQ says the device unlocks after it is paid in full.
via MacRumors / Apple / CNET / 9to5Mac
The text says iPhones financed through the AT&T Installment Plan, T-Mobile Equipment Installment Plan or Verizon Device Payment Program remain tied to that carrier until paid in full. During the lock, buyers cannot directly switch to another US network or add another provider's eSIM while traveling.
The restriction follows carrier financing only. Devices bought outright or through Apple Card Monthly Installments remain unlocked, and Apple still offers a "Connect to a carrier later" choice. MacRumors found on July 15 that parts of checkout still described T-Mobile and Verizon devices as unlocked, indicating that page text had not fully caught up.
Apple did not explain the change; the option to switch carriers during the installment period is gone.
The policy changes payment and network configuration, not the iPhone 17 Pro's A19 Pro chip or Apple Intelligence. Apple's FAQ says the device unlocks after it is paid in full.
via MacRumors / Apple / CNET / 9to5Mac
