iPhones or Android devices might not be pleased with the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) ruling on Monday, which granted the carrier permission to bind handsets to its network for a duration longer than the prior 60-day minimum. This waiver is in place as of Tuesday, meaning Verizon is only required to adhere to the CTIA’s voluntary unlocking guidelines. The CTIA recommends unlocking prepaid devices one year post-activation. Postpaid units may be unlocked once a contract concludes, which could entail settling a financing plan or early termination fee.
Verizon’s advantage could complicate the process for consumers wishing to switch carriers. Transitioning to a superior plan from AT&T, T-Mobile, or a smaller rival becomes trickier if the device remains connected to Verizon’s network. This is predicated on the subscriber’s desire to continue using the same device and having several months remaining on their carrier agreement. The new conditions of the waiver go into effect for all new phone activations the day after the FCC’s directive, or January 13. Consequently, buyers of iPhone and Android devices who acquired a phone prior to the approval of Verizon’s petition will continue to benefit from the earlier regulation.
Organizations such as Consumer Reports, the Electronic Frontier Foundation, iFixit, and others opposed Verizon’s request, contending that the 60-day unlock policy was beneficial to consumers and competition. Likewise, the cable lobbying group NCTA condemned the FCC’s ruling, claiming that unlocked devices support smartphone buyers.