Verizon, one of the leading telecommunications providers in the United States, has recently announced a series of changes that will impact its customer base. These changes include increases in various fees and the discontinuation of certain perks, notably the Google Play Pass subscription.
Price Increases Across the Board
Customers have reported that Verizon is raising its activation fee from $35 to $40. This fee is charged when initiating a new line of service or upgrading an existing device. Additionally, monthly charges for voice and data plans are set to increase. Specifically, voice and data combination lines will see a rise from $3.50 to $3.78, while data-only plans will experience an increase from $1.60 to $3.97. The regulatory charge, a monthly fee for voice-capable lines, is also increasing from $0.19 to $0.21 per line. Some customers have noted the removal of $10 loyalty discounts, further contributing to the overall cost increase.
Discontinuation of Google Play Pass Perk
In addition to the price hikes, Verizon is discontinuing the Google Play Pass perk that was previously offered with certain plans. This benefit provided subscribers with a complimentary subscription to Google’s game and app service, valued at approximately $5 per month. The removal of this perk is scheduled to take effect on September 22, 2025. Customers have been notified through the My Verizon app, with messages stating, Effective September 22, 2025, Apple Arcade & Google Play Pass included with your plan will be discontinued. This change affects customers on older 5G Get More and 5G Play More plans, which were first introduced in 2021 and later renamed in 2022.
Context and Customer Impact
These adjustments come amid Verizon’s ongoing efforts to manage operational costs and encourage customers to transition from older plans to newer offerings. In March of the previous year, Verizon raised prices on these same plans by $4 per month per phone line. The removal of the Google Play Pass perk is seen as part of this broader strategy. Customers who have been enjoying this perk will need to consider alternative options or be prepared for the additional expense if they wish to continue accessing the service independently.
Alternative Options for Customers
For those affected by these changes, exploring alternative service providers or plan options may be worthwhile. Verizon’s own subsidiary, Visible, offers more affordable plans that might suit some users’ needs. Additionally, other carriers and prepaid services are available in the market, providing competitive pricing and benefits. It’s essential for customers to assess their individual requirements and compare available options to make informed decisions.
Conclusion
Verizon’s recent price increases and the discontinuation of the Google Play Pass perk reflect the company’s efforts to adapt to changing market conditions and operational costs. While these changes may pose challenges for some customers, they also present an opportunity to reevaluate service needs and explore alternative options that may offer better value or align more closely with individual preferences.
