Apple has updated its FAQ stating iPhones bought with carrier financing are now locked to that carrier until paid off. Previously, all iPhones bought directly from Apple in the US came unlocked, meaning you could use them with any carrier even with financing from another carrier.

This applies to AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon—the three carriers Apple works with. Two other options—Apple Card Monthly Installments and Apple iPhone Payments—require activation on one of these carriers but don't appear to lock the phone. Confusingly, T-Mobile and Verizon popups still claim unlocked phones.

Previously, users could pick favorable carrier financing and use another carrier. Now there's less flexibility—either accept the SIM lock or use Apple's financing plans. Apple also no longer offers Boost Mobile deals.