Verizon now offers a three-year price lock — but there’s a catch

The Verge - Apr 3rd, 2025

Verizon has announced a new three-year price lock policy on certain plans, offering both new and existing customers a degree of price stability amidst economic uncertainty. This move comes immediately following President Trump's announcement of sweeping tariffs, suggesting Verizon's aim to provide customers with more predictability during these volatile times. However, the price lock only applies to the base charge for rate plans under Verizon's newer myPlan subscriptions, not including additional fees and taxes. This leaves room for Verizon to potentially increase bills through other means, such as fee hikes or reduced discounts, while still promoting the illusion of stability.

Additionally, Verizon is offering a free phone to customers who trade in an old Apple, Samsung, or Google device, contingent upon being enrolled in a myPlan subscription. This trade-in deal may appeal to consumers wary of economic instability, though it's crucial they review the fine print to fully understand the terms and conditions. This strategy by Verizon reflects an attempt to retain customer loyalty and attract new subscribers while navigating a challenging economic landscape influenced by new tariffs and ongoing market fluctuations.

Tariffs President Trump Verizon Economic Uncertainty Price Lock Policy My Plan Subscription Trade In Deal

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RATING

7.0

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides a clear and timely overview of Verizon's new price lock policy, accurately highlighting the main features and potential drawbacks. While it effectively communicates the key points, the piece could benefit from greater transparency and source attribution to enhance credibility. The balance is adequate, though it could be improved by incorporating diverse perspectives, particularly from consumer advocates. The topic is of public interest and has the potential to influence consumer decisions, though the article's impact could be amplified with more in-depth analysis and engagement strategies. Overall, the article is well-written and accessible, but with room for improvement in terms of source quality and transparency.

Accuracy

The article accurately reports Verizon's announcement of a three-year price lock on certain plans, aligning with available information from credible sources. It correctly states that the guarantee applies to the base charge of the rate plan but excludes fees and taxes, which is consistent with Verizon's policy details. However, the article could improve by specifying the exact terms of what constitutes the 'base charge' and how fees might increase, which are areas needing further verification. Additionally, the mention of the free phone offer and the conditions tied to it are accurate but could benefit from additional details about specific models and any hidden requirements.

Balance

The article presents a balanced view of Verizon's new policy by highlighting both the benefits and potential drawbacks. It notes the predictability offered by the price lock while also pointing out the fine print that allows for fee increases. However, the piece could enhance balance by including perspectives from consumer advocacy groups or expert opinions on the impact of such telecom offers. The focus is primarily on Verizon's narrative, with less emphasis on how consumers might perceive or be affected by these changes.

Clarity

The article is generally clear and easy to understand, with a logical flow and straightforward language. It effectively communicates the main points about Verizon's price lock policy and associated offers. However, the piece could improve clarity by providing more detailed explanations of the terms and conditions mentioned, such as what is included in the 'base charge' and the specifics of the free phone offer.

Source quality

The article does not explicitly cite its sources, which limits the ability to assess the credibility and reliability of the information presented. While the details align with known facts about Verizon's policy, the lack of direct attribution to primary sources such as official Verizon announcements or statements from company representatives reduces the transparency of the reporting. Including such references would enhance the article's credibility and reliability.

Transparency

The article provides a basic overview of Verizon's new policy but lacks transparency in terms of explaining the methodology behind the claims. It does not disclose any potential conflicts of interest or the basis for the information provided. Greater transparency could be achieved by detailing the sources of the information and any potential biases or influences impacting the article's presentation.