Official
2 publications · July 15, 2026
Apple locks carrier-financed iPhones until paid in full
Key points
- Apple updated its FAQ to state that iPhones financed through T-Mobile or Verizon will now be carrier-locked until paid in full
- The change closes a previous workaround that allowed customers to buy unlocked iPhones with carrier financing
- The policy change appears to have taken effect in July 2026
- Apple previously allowed customers to purchase carrier-financed iPhones that remained unlocked
Summary
(AI)
Apple confirmed the policy change in an updated FAQ for carrier-financed iPhone 17 Pro purchases. The company previously allowed customers to finance iPhones through carriers while keeping the devices unlocked, a practice outlets describe as a workaround that was being abused. Under the new policy, devices financed through T-Mobile or Verizon will remain locked to those carriers until the full purchase price is paid.
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