Following FCC changes, Verizon has announced an updated device unlocking policy, with the carrier no longer automatically unlocking devices, and implementing a 365-day unlock policy on prepaid devices.
Verizon’s previous device unlock policy would require your phone to be locked to Verizon’s network for “60 days after purchase,” or after activiation depending on where you purchase. After that 60-day period, the phone would be automatically unlocked, allowing it to be used on other networks. Prepaid had the same 60-day period, but with the requirement of “60 days of paid service.”
Earlier this month, Verizon carriers such as Visible, Total Wireless, and others moved from a 60-day policy to a 365-day policy, a big shift fueled by a restriction that the FCC lifted.
Now, Verizon itself is making a change.
As of today, January 27, Verizon has updated its device unlock policy to an indefinite amount of time. Specifically, Verizon says that devices “will be unlocked when purchased at full retail price or if the device financing agreement balance is paid in full.” In short, Verizon will unlock your device when you’ve fully paid for it. That seems fair, but it is a shift from the prior 60-day policy. There is an asterisk if you purchased a device using a Verizon gift card at any time.
Verizon explains:
Devices purchased directly from Verizon are locked to our network. Devices will be unlocked automatically when purchased at full retail price or if the device financing agreement balance is paid in full.
Note: Devices previously reported as lost or stolen will not be unlocked until they are cleared from the lost or stolen report. Once a device is unlocked, Verizon will never re-lock it.
If a Verizon Gift Card is used to purchase a smartphone or pay off a remaining balance, the unlocking process will be delayed by 35 days. This window allows for the verification of the gift card’s funds to ensure they were not obtained through fraudulent or illegal means.
As for Verizon Prepaid, devices will have the same 365-day policy as Verizon’s smaller carriers. You’ll need to wait a full year after purchase and have service active for the whole 365 days.
Verizon says:
Devices purchased from us will remain locked to the network until the completion of 365 days of paid and active service. After 365 days of paid and active service, we will automatically remove the lock unless the device is deemed stolen or purchased fraudulently.
These changes are effective as of today.
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