Why is financing/monthly payments now only available if you are on one of the major carriers? I had to leave T-Mobile over constant price increases and now I can't use my Apple Card to buy a new iPhone and do monthly installments. That's the only reason I signed up for the Apple Card.
[Re-Titled by Moderator]
Original Title: iPhone Financing
Last year, I noticed this change during pre-order check out. I decided to just select Verizon even though I have Xfinity Mobile (they use Verizon’s network but still a different carrier). I transferred the eSIM like usual and had no issues with the monthly installments. Apple states the new phone will be unlocked even after selecting a carrier (unless financed with AT&T), so it appears to be more of a deterrent than a requirement.
Last year, I noticed this change during pre-order check out. I decided to just select Verizon even though I have Xfinity Mobile (they use Verizon’s network but still a different carrier). I transferred the eSIM like usual and had no issues with the monthly installments. Apple states the new phone will be unlocked even after selecting a carrier (unless financed with AT&T), so it appears to be more of a deterrent than a requirement.
Correct, you must choose one of the supported carriers for financing. I seem to remember long ago that there was a special offer on the Apple Card for financing devices where the carrier did not have to be chosen, but that ended many years ago. That was a promotion to increase Apple Card usage, and if you no longer have a use for the Apple Card, you can close that account.
How to close your Apple Card account - Apple Support
Goldman Sachs and Apple announced the policy change back in August 2024. Sorry you just became aware of the change. I’m not sure how else to explain. If you have additional questions or concerns just post a reply.
Thanks for the update on the timeline. I thought it was longer ago than that. In most cases for me, when I would think it was something that happened last year, it was actually 3 years ago.
Which model iPhone was it? Some carriers seem to differentiate between pro models and non-pro models. Just curious what model worked for you?
16 Pro 128GB. As far as the set up process once I got the phone, it was like I had never even selected a carrier. Just a normal, unlocked iPhone.
Unable to finance iPhone with Apple Card on non-major carriers
