Using the Apple Upgrade program locks you into the big three mobile providers
Apple's new leasing program has an odd rule: you need to use Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile.
Apple's new iPhone leasing program, Apple Upgrade, presents a unique condition that users must have a mobile account with one of the big three carriers: AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile. This restriction was discovered through the fine print of the program, which allows customers to lease cutting-edge devices like iPhones and MacBooks on a monthly payment basis.
Despite the phones being technically unlocked, they can only be activated with one of the three major networks. Cybersecurity analyst John Gruber explored the reasoning behind this rule on his website, Daring Fireball, revealing two primary reasons. Firstly, Apple leverages the rigorous risk assessments conducted by the three major carriers to ensure that customers are not leasing iPhones for fraudulent purposes.
Secondly, former Apple employees claim that Apple has made significant deals with the carriers, entailing prominent placement and other benefits. While the validity of these claims cannot be verified, the information adds context to the restriction. Despite the apparent profusion of mobile carriers in the market, users seeking to lease an iPhone through the Apple Upgrade program are limited to the three big players.
Written by urgent.news from Mashable's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.
