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Verizon Tightens Device Unlock Policy for Prepaid Plans

1/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Verizon updates its device unlock policy, effective January 20, 2026, requiring 365 days of activation before unlocking.
The change affects Verizon's prepaid brands Visible and Total Wireless, which previously unlocked after 60 days.
Unlocking now requires a formal request and an active plan to be maintained.
Critics say the policy reduces prepaid flexibility, while the Federal Communications Commission granted a waiver to enable swift change.

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Story summary

Verizon updates its device unlock policy, effective January 20, 2026, requiring 365 days of activation before unlocking.
The change affects Verizon's prepaid brands Visible and Total Wireless, which previously unlocked after 60 days.
Unlocking now requires a formal request and an active plan to be maintained.
Critics say the policy reduces prepaid flexibility, while the Federal Communications Commission granted a waiver to enable swift change.