FCC Waives Rule Forcing Verizon to Unlock Phones After 60 Days

The Federal Communications Commission is letting Verizon lock phones to its network for longer periods, eliminating a requirement that forced the carrier to unlock devices 60 days after activation. The decision, reported by Jon Brodkin at Ars Technica, removes a significant barrier that made it easier for customers to switch carriers.

What Actually Changed

The 60-day unlock rule originated from conditions attached to Verizon's 2019 acquisition of Tracfone. The FCC imposed the requirement to ensure Verizon wouldn't use its market power to lock in customers. Until now, Verizon had to unlock phones 60 days after activation, regardless of whether the device was paid off.

The waiver applies specifically to phones purchased after Verizon's 2019 spectrum acquisition. Devices bought before that date remain subject to the original 60-day unlock policy. Verizon argued the restriction was no longer necessary because the market has become more competitive since 2019.

Why This Matters for Consumers

Without the 60-day rule, Verizon can keep phones locked indefinitely until specific conditions are met. This typically means:

• The device must be fully paid off
• The customer must complete any contract term
• The account must be in good standing

For customers who want to switch carriers mid-contract or before paying off their device, this makes porting numbers significantly more difficult. The 60-day unlock provided a predictable timeline that customers could plan around.

Verizon's Position and Market Context

Verizon's successful petition to the FCC rests on the argument that the wireless market is more competitive now than in 2019. The carrier points to increased competition from T-Mobile's merger with Sprint, aggressive pricing from AT&T, and the growth of MVNOs.

However, critics note that phone locking remains a powerful retention tool. Carriers often subsidize devices through installment plans, and locking the phone prevents customers from leaving while still owing money. The 60-day rule created a middle ground—allowing carriers some protection while giving customers a clear path to portability.

Technical and Practical Implications

The waiver doesn't change how Verizon handles device unlocking internally. The carrier's systems will still need to support unlocking, but the timing is now at Verizon's discretion rather than by regulation.

For consumers considering Verizon, this means:

• Read the fine print on device payment plans carefully
• Understand that unlocking may not happen automatically
• Consider buying unlocked devices directly from manufacturers
• Factor in potential switching costs when choosing a carrier

The decision reflects a broader trend of regulatory rollbacks in telecommunications policy. While Verizon gained flexibility, consumers lost a guaranteed path to device freedom after a relatively short waiting period.

Related Coverage

• Ars Technica: FCC waives Verizon unlock rule
• FCC Official Orders
• Verizon Device Unlock Policy

The change takes effect immediately, though Verizon may need time to update its internal policies and customer-facing documentation.