# Apple shuts down popular unlocked iPhone purchase loophole Carrier-financed iPhones will now come locked until fully paid off. - **Source:** [9to5Mac](https://brifing.si/source/59447403-ce5b-427c-8132-8614f549929a) - **Published:** 2026-07-15 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/1b204284-c5c0-4864-bb65-b9f2c8540736 ## What's changing? Apple and carrier partners have implemented a policy change requiring carrier-locked iPhones for financed purchases. Devices bought through T-Mobile or Verizon installment plans will now remain locked until fully paid, eliminating the previous workaround that allowed unlocked devices. ## Consumer impact The change affects travelers needing different SIM cards abroad and users wanting dual-SIM flexibility. Customers can no longer switch carriers or add secondary lines without first completing their device payment plans. ## Carrier promotions This eliminates the advantage of combining carrier discounts (like T-Mobile's $1,100 iPhone deals) with unlocked devices. Users must now choose between major carrier savings or device flexibility. ## Company motivations Industry analysts believe this change was driven by carrier requests rather than Apple, aiming to reduce customer churn. Locked devices make carrier switching more difficult, increasing subscriber retention. ## Alternative solutions Consumers seeking unlocked iPhones can still purchase refurbished models on Amazon or pay upfront. Renewed iPhone 17 Pro models currently start at $1,069, providing an unlocked option without carrier restrictions. ## Industry implications This move strengthens carrier control over device sales while limiting consumer choice. Such restrictions in the telecom industry are likely to spark debates about consumer rights and market competition. ## Sources covering this story - https://9to5mac.com/2026/07/15/unlocked-iphone-carrier-financing/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._