The regulation aims to standardize policies and enhance consumer choice and competition.
This inconsistency is detrimental to both consumers and competition.
“For too long, consumers have faced confusing and disparate cell phone unlocking policies.
“A consistent unlocking policy isn’t just good for consumers.
For carriers, it’ll better reward those offering the most innovative, affordable products and services.”
Financed phones are not eligible until paid in full, which is standard policy for most providers.
This idea seems like an invitation for deadbeats to ditch their financing obligations.
The proposal also considers the broader impact on the availability of discounted handsets and term contracts.
They suggested that stringent unlocking requirements might reduce the availability of subsidized phones, particularly in prepaid environments.
They noted that phone locking also limits the secondary market for used phones, reducing affordable options for consumers.
There is still much to consider, especially when prepaid devices often come with very steep discounts.
Image credit:Billion Photos
