Verizon (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) today announced a major shift in its business strategy, eliminating activation and upgrade fees for all postpaid customers and introducing new simplified plans designed to put customers first. The company is launching "Verizon Simplicity," a plan that offers its best 5G network at a flat rate of $45 per line, with a promotional offer of $30 per line for new customers. Additionally, "Verizon One" combines mobile and home services on a single bill for $70 per month, including taxes and fees.
Dan Schulman, Verizon CEO, emphasized the company's commitment to overhauling the industry's traditionally complex pricing structures. "For too long, this industry has burdened people with complex plans, forced upgrades they don’t need, and so-called ‘rewards’ with tons of caveats. We are working to ensure everything that we do is simple, clear and delightful," Schulman said.
As part of the transformation, Verizon is introducing a new loyalty program that rewards all customers, regardless of their plan. The program includes "Verizon Dollars," offering 3% back monthly on their bills, redeemable for devices, accessories, or up to 5x value from partners like Sephora, Hilton, Marriott, and Starbucks. Customers can also participate in "Verizon Shine," a weekly sweepstakes for once-in-a-lifetime experiences, such as tickets to the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final, VIP access to Outside Lands festival, and a food tour with chef Andrew Zimmern. The program also includes daily drops like free coffee from Starbucks and gift cards to Ulta and Amazon.
The elimination of activation and upgrade fees—up to $40 per device—applies to all postpaid customers who opt into the loyalty program via the My Verizon app. Alfonso Villanueva, Interim CEO of Verizon Consumer Group, stated, "With today’s news, we’re doubling down on what customers actually want: simpler experiences, less friction and more rewards for being a customer."
Verizon Simplicity moves away from tiered network pricing, offering unlimited 5G Ultra Wideband data, 10GB of premium mobile hotspot, roaming in Canada and Mexico, and satellite texting. Customers can add home internet starting at $35 per month. The plan allows device freedom, with options to keep existing phones, buy new ones, or choose certified pre-owned devices. Upgrades to the latest phone annually are available with Simplicity Plus or Simplicity Pro. Customizable bundles, such as the "For Movie and Show Lovers bundle" including Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+, Netflix, and HBO Max, allow customers to tailor their plan.
Verizon One targets new customers by bundling mobile and home services into one plan with a single bill. It leverages Verizon’s best 5G network and its 100% fiber network. The plan is managed entirely through the My Verizon app, aiming to provide a frictionless experience from setup to payment.
These announcements build on the success of myPlan, which existing customers can continue to use while also enrolling in the new loyalty program. Verizon expects these changes to be accretive to revenue and EBITDA growth and to reduce churn, with no change to the company's 2026 financial guidance.
For more information, customers can visit verizon.com/loyalty or the My Verizon app. The original press release is available at verizon.com/about/news.
