Verizon offer matches Sprint program, though lacks pricing incentive
Last week’s launch of the Apple iPhone 6s prompted Verizon Wireless to jump on the accelerated device upgrade bandwagon, announcing its own yearly update program in a move to battle T-Mobile US and Sprint.
Verizon Wireless said customers purchasing the iPhone 6s or 6s Plus using its device payment program will be able to upgrade to a new iPhone every year. The program requires customers to turn in their old device before upgrading to a new model, with their current payments just extended to the new device.
For those that can’t wait one year, Verizon Wireless also allows customers to upgrade at six-month intervals if they pay off 50% of the total price on the device. Verizon Wireless’ device financing option for the iPhone 6s begins at $27 per month.
Verizon Wireless last month launched its device payment program that did away with device subsidies for new customers. The program has customers paying a monthly fee for their device spread out over a two-year period. In return for giving up that device subsidy, Verizon Wireless adjusted the per-device fee tied to the carrier’s monthly rate plans.
Verizon Wireless’ move followed aggressive plays by T-Mobile US and Sprint just ahead of the iPhone 6s launch.
T-Mobile US announced customers could get an iPhone 6s beginning at $5 per month through its JUMP on Demand device payment plan if they also trade in their current mobile device. That program, which was updated earlier this summer, also allows customers to turn in their current device on a new model three times per year.
Sprint quickly followed up that offer by announcing customers could get an iPhone beginning at just $1 per month as part of its iPhone Forever program.
AT&T Mobility so far has not moved ahead with dramatically reduced pricing for its iPhone lineup, with the carrier still charging a minimum of nearly $22 per month for the basic iPhone 6s.
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