Apple Locks Carrier-Financed iPhones to the Carrier, Ending Unlock Perks
Apple now requires iPhones bought on installment through US carriers (notably T-Mobile and Verizon) to be locked to the purchasing carrier, ending the previous ability to use an unlocked device with other networks; outright purchases remain unlocked. The change makes switching carriers without paying off the device harder and may aim to curb fraud or strengthen carrier-acceleration deals; it takes effect immediately.