MSN: Verizon seeks FCC approval to lock phones for 6 months: Here's what you need to know Verizon may soon make it harder for customers to switch carriers or unlock their phones early. The company is reportedly seeking approval from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Trump ... Verizon seeks FCC approval to lock phones for 6 months: Here's what you need to know Verizon is facing backlash over its efforts to keep phones locked, with some consumers pointing out the restriction threatens to block their access to rival T-Mobile’s cellular Starlink service.

Understanding the Context

Ars Technica: Verizon’s request to lock phones supported by police, opposed by users It's just exceptionally crass for the cops to be carrying water for Verizon on the tenuous theory that regulatory arbitrage professionals can't just buy unlocked burner phones. I realize that this may ... The FCC has officially scrapped its 60-day phone unlocking requirements for Verizon. Verizon can now lock phones for longer periods of time for both prepaid and postpaid customers.

Key Insights

While the new rules ... The FCC has finally revised the long-standing rule that required Verizon to unlock its mobile phones 60 days after activation. This rule is reportedly costing the company a million dollars annually in ... As of January 20, Verizon Value–branded prepaid phones require 365 days of active service before they can be unlocked (previously 60 days after full purchase). The change is a result of a previous FCC ...

Final Thoughts