Verizon Extends Device Unlock Period to 365 Days Across Its Network
In a significant policy shift, Verizon has extended the period before customers can unlock their devices from 60 days to 365 days. This change, effective January 20, 2026, applies to all devices activated on or after this date and affects Verizon’s main services as well as its subsidiary brands, including Visible, Total Wireless, and StraightTalk.
Background and Policy Details
Previously, Verizon’s policy allowed devices to be unlocked automatically after 60 days of activation. The new policy mandates that devices remain locked to Verizon’s network for a full year of paid and active service before they can be unlocked upon customer request. This change follows the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) decision to lift restrictions on how soon carriers are required to unlock devices, granting carriers more flexibility in setting their own policies.
The updated policy is detailed on Verizon’s official website, stating:
> For all cellphones Activated on or after January 20, 2026, the cellphone will be unlocked upon request after 365 days of paid and active service.
This means that customers must actively use and pay for their Verizon service for a full year before they can request to have their device unlocked for use on other networks.
Implications for Verizon’s Subsidiary Brands
The 365-day unlock policy is not limited to Verizon’s primary services but also extends to its subsidiary brands. For instance, Visible, a Verizon-owned carrier, has updated its policy to reflect this change. Visible’s policy now states:
> Visible locks any smartphone you purchase through Visible for 365 days. Your smartphone will unlock upon request after 365 days if you meet the following conditions:
> 1. You purchased the smartphone on or after the 1/20/2026 (Effective Date).
> 2. You activated the smartphone more than 365 days ago.
> 3. The device has at least 365 days of paid service.
> 4. There was ordinary usage of the smartphone in compliance with our Terms of Service.
> 5. Nobody reported the smartphone as lost or stolen.
> 6. There are no signs of fraud with your account or the smartphone.
Visible also notes that unlocking requests may be denied if there is evidence of policy abuse or if the device has been reported as lost or stolen. Additionally, the unlocking policy is subject to change without advance notice.
Comparison with Other Carriers
Verizon’s new 365-day unlock policy aligns with similar policies from other carriers. For example, T-Mobile has a comparable 365-day unlock policy for devices sold through its prepaid services. This trend indicates a broader industry move towards longer lock-in periods before devices can be used on other networks.
Customer Considerations
For customers, this policy change means that devices purchased and activated on Verizon’s network will be locked for a full year before they can be unlocked for use with other carriers. This could impact users who plan to switch carriers or travel internationally within that period. It’s important for customers to be aware of these terms when purchasing devices through Verizon or its subsidiary brands.
Conclusion
Verizon’s extension of the device unlock period to 365 days reflects a significant shift in its policy, aligning with similar moves by other carriers. Customers should be mindful of this change, as it affects their ability to switch carriers or use their devices internationally within the first year of activation. Staying informed about carrier policies is essential for making decisions that best suit individual needs and circumstances.
