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Verizon Targets Legacy Plans with New Restrictions
The telecommunications landscape is shifting as Verizon intensifies its push to migrate customers away from discontinued 5G Get More and 5G Play More plans. In a strategic move that contrasts with T-Mobile’s method of forcefully switching customers without consent, Verizon has opted to gradually strip away the attractive perks that made these legacy plans stand out—particularly their complimentary gaming subscriptions.
Gaming Perks Removed from Grandfathered Plans
Historically, the 5G Get More and 5G Play More plans, both introduced in 2021, included free access to either Apple Arcade or Google Play Pass. These popular game subscription services provide access to extensive libraries of mobile and console-quality games—offering a value of $6.99 per month for Apple Arcade and $4.99 monthly for Google Play Pass. For gaming enthusiasts, this was a significant bonus and a compelling reason to stick with these older Verizon offerings.
However, as first reported by Droid Life, Verizon has begun notifying affected customers that these game subscriptions will soon be discontinued. Apple Arcade and Google Play Pass will no longer be included as free perks starting September 22, with automatic removal from customer accounts set for September 25.
Increasing Costs and Decreasing Value for Legacy Users
The removal of gaming perks follows closely after a $4 price hike on the 5G Get More and Play More plans implemented in March. This combination of increased cost and reduced benefits makes the legacy plans less attractive, seemingly nudging users toward Verizon's newer myPlan offerings—which now advertise Apple Arcade integration as a fresh highlight.
What Current Customers Need to Know
Subscribers enjoying the six-month free trial of Apple Arcade or Google Play Pass on these legacy plans should note: if their trial ends before September 25, charges will begin unless the subscription is canceled. Trials ending on or after September 25 will be automatically terminated, with no additional charges.
Competitive Pressures and Market Implications
These changes come as Verizon faces increased competition and customer churn, partially driven by price increases and the gradual removal of legacy incentives such as loyalty discounts. As carriers adjust their strategy, the move away from legacy plans towards newer subscription models highlights a broader shift in how telecom companies structure value-added services in a bid to retain and attract mobile users.
Comparing Legacy and Modern Verizon Plans
While the older 5G Get More and Play More plans offered robust entertainment perks and predictable pricing, customers now have to weigh the growing appeal of updated plans like myPlan, which feature new benefits, bundled perks, and more customizable options. For users seeking value, evaluating potential gaming and entertainment perks, alongside price changes, is more critical than ever in 2024’s evolving mobile marketplace.
Source: phonearena
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