Verizon launches its own annual iPhone upgrade program ahead of iPhone 6s launch

BY Evan Selleck

Published 25 Sep 2015

Verizon Wireless logo

Carriers are catching on that people want to upgrade to a new iPhone every year. Not everyone, of course, but apparently there’s enough of a compulsion from subscribers that even Verizon Wireless is jumping on board.

On Thursday, September 24, just one day before the iPhone 6s and 6s Plus go on sale (not including where it’s already on sale, of course), Verizon has announced a brand new annual upgrade program, this one specifically meant for the iPhone. As is the case with other initiatives, including Apple’s own iPhone Upgrade Program, it means that subscribers will be able to upgrade to the new iPhone every year, all for a minimal amount of money every month.

The Big Red carriers says that the iPhone 6s and 6s Plus are the first devices eligible for the new program, and if you’ve already pre-ordered the device and chose the Device Payment option, you’re automatically enrolled in the program.

You’ll have to turn the old iPhone in to get a new one, but if you prefer to keep it you can continue to pay the monthly installment fees for the 24 month period.

“That’s a better option than those ‘lease plans’ offered by other companies, which can include surprise balloon payments just 18 months into your agreement, or ask you to turn over your phone without getting anything for it.”

The pricing starts at $27.08 for the 16GB iPhone 6s, and $31.24 for the 16GB iPhone 6s Plus. To compare, T-Mobile’s pricing starts at $5 per month, and still offers the same yearly upgrade option. And, just today, Sprint unveiled its own price drop for its yearly upgrade, which offers the 16GB iPhone 6s for $1 per month.

So, do you plan on going with Verizon Wireless to get your new iPhone every year?

[via Re/code; Verizon Wireless]