Apple has closed the workaround that let shoppers buy an unlocked iPhone with carrier financing. The change took effect this month, affecting T‑Mobile and Verizon, and previously AT‑T.

Previously, you could buy an iPhone from Apple with carrier financing and still get an unlocked device, enabling use on any carrier or dual‑SIM. Now, financing locks the phone to the carrier until fully paid.

Apple’s purchase page now states that iPhones purchased through AT‑T Installment Plan, T‑Mobile Equipment Installment Plan, or Verizon Device Payment Program will be locked until paid in full. This removes the “open secret” that allowed promos like $1,100 off at T‑Mobile while keeping the device unlocked.

Consumers who relied on this perk now face a bigger deal; the change was likely driven by Verizon and T‑Mobile. A cheaper alternative is buying an unlocked refurbished iPhone on Amazon for $1,069 (iPhone 17 Pro), $1,179 (Pro Max), $745 (17), or $768 (Air).