Verizon has announced that the new iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are now available, alongside a promotional offer that allows customers to get the latest iPhone every year without needing to trade in their device. The move underscores a growing trend among carriers to shift from traditional device ownership to circular, subscription-like models that promise simplicity and recurring upgrades.
The new iPhone 18 Pro lineup features a redesigned 48MP Fusion main camera with variable aperture, the most advanced camera system Apple has created, and is powered by the A20 Pro chip. According to Verizon, the iPhone 18 Pro Max offers the biggest jump in battery life in iPhone history. The devices also support Apple Intelligence and Siri AI, a completely new version of Siri launching in beta with iOS 27. For the first time, Apple has introduced a foldable iPhone, the iPhone Duo, which opens to a 7.6-inch internal display and closes to a 5.4-inch external display, powered by the A20 Pro chip.
Verizon's promotional offer, tied to its Simplicity Pro plan, includes zero activation or upgrade fees when enrolling in Verizon Loyalty, plus monthly credits in Verizon Dollars. The plan costs $80 per month after Auto Pay and switch discounts, plus taxes and fees. Customers can get the iPhone 18 Pro today without a trade-in and return it in good working condition to upgrade to a new model every year. This approach could reduce the upfront cost barrier for consumers and lock them into a recurring revenue stream for Verizon.
For those who prefer to trade in, Verizon offers up to $1,200 off a new iPhone with an eligible trade-in and a new line on an eligible myPlan, or up to $1,020 off for existing line upgrades. The company also provides bundle deals, such as getting an Apple Watch and iPad on Verizon when purchasing an eligible iPhone. These offers are designed to deepen customer loyalty and increase the number of connected devices per account.
The announcement also highlights Verizon's expanded portfolio of Apple products, including the Apple Watch Series 12, Apple Watch Ultra 4, AirPods 5, and the iPhone Duo. The Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 feature the most accurate heart rate sensor in a wearable device, according to Apple, and introduce new health and fitness features. AirPods 5 offer the industry's best Active Noise Cancellation in an open-ear design. All new iPhone models will be available through Verizon, as well as Visible, StraightTalk, Total Wireless, and Verizon's prepaid service.
Verizon's Loyalty program, open to all postpaid customers on any plan, eliminates activation and upgrade fees and rewards customers with 3% back in Verizon Dollars every month. The program also includes weekly and daily rewards through Verizon Shine. This emphasis on loyalty and simplified pricing could pressure competitors to rethink their own device financing and upgrade policies.
Preorders for the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, Apple Watch Series 12, Apple Watch Ultra 4, and AirPods 5 begin September 12 at 8 a.m. ET, with broad availability on September 18. The iPhone Duo will be available for preorder starting October 16. For more information, visit Verizon.com or the My Verizon app. Verizon Business customers can visit the Verizon Business website or contact their account manager.
