Getting an iPhone for free can sound like a dream come true, especially with all the different promos on the market. But how can you be sure that these offers are genuine? In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best, most legit ways to get a free or discounted iPhone. We’ll even examine some common scams floating around, so you can on alert while you shop.
Is it possible to get a free iPhone?
Technically, yes—mobile providers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile offer “free” iPhones to their customers. But while these companies give you an iPhone for “free” upfront, you’re contractually obligated to pay off this phone for the next 2–3 years (which often costs more than the retail price of the phone).
Steps
Ways to Get a Free or Discounted iPhone
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Search for promotional deals with different networks. Popular networks like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile frequently offer “free” iPhone deals on the websites. Here are some common promos you might run into:
- Get a free phone “on us”: The provider gives you a “free” or discounted iPhone if you sign up for a specific plan for several years (often 3 years/36 months) and trade-in your old device. The newer the device you trade in, the more “credits” you get toward your bill.
- Get a new iPhone for a low monthly cost: The provider gives you a highly discounted iPhone for a cheap monthly rate (like $6 a month) if you buy another iPhone on a set plan.
- Switch carriers and get a free phone: The provider gives you an older iPhone for a discounted rate when you switch networks. Some providers may also offer a free/discounted phone if you sign up for a long-term contract (like 2 years/24 months).
- Standard contract: The provider gives you a “free” phone that you pay off over a set period of time, in addition to your standard phone bill.
- Warning: Getting an iPhone for free upfront does come with a long-term cost. Throughout the duration of your contract, you’ll likely pay more than the default price of your device. [1] X Research source
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Trade in your old device to save on a new phone . Apple offers a robust trade-in program for any customers looking to upgrade their existing Apple devices to something newer. While trading in won’t score you a free iPhone, it will knock a good chunk off the final cost (especially if you’re trading in a newer device). [2] X Research source
- Other retailers offer trade-in programs, including major network providers and retailers like Best Buy.
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Pay off an unlocked phone gradually with an after-pay system. Certain prepaid networks like Mint Mobile and Cricket offer after-pay financing options (like Affirm), which allow you to pay off a new iPhone in small monthly installments over a set period of time. This can be a good option if you prefer unlocked phones, or phones that don’t require a contractual plan.
- Buying an “unlocked” phone means you’re buying the device at retail price. It won’t be tethered to any networks, which gives you a bit more flexibility in choosing your phone plan. Plus, you won’t have to pay off the phone’s cost to a provider (like you would in a contract-based plan). [3] X Research source
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Save a little money by getting a refurbished iPhone. Head to a reliable retailer (like Best Buy or Apple) and check out their refurbished iPhone offerings. While refurbished phones definitely won’t be free, they’ll be cheaper than the newest, top-of-the-line phone models. [4] X Research source
- Buyer beware: Proceed with caution when buying refurbished devices online. Do some research into the seller and make sure their operation is legit before purchasing any devices from them.
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See if you qualify for the federal Lifeline program. With the Lifeline program, the US government offers low-cost cell service and cell phones to people who fall beneath a certain income threshold. [5] X Trustworthy Source Federal Communications Commission Independent U.S. government agency responsible for regulating radio, television, and satellite, and phone communications Go to source While these devices definitely aren’t guaranteed to be iPhones, there’s a chance you could get an older iPhone for a steep discount if you qualify for this program.
- Visit Lifeline’s website to apply for the program (and see if you qualify).
- Older individuals currently on Medicaid qualify for Lifeline. [6] X Research source
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Find discounted phones on Facebook Marketplace. Facebook Marketplace can be a great place to find a variety of cheap iPhones—the key is doing your research and watching out for scams . Be on the lookout for:
- Sellers who list a seemingly functional iPhone for a suspiciously low price
- Sellers who try to complete the transaction outside of Marketplace
- Sellers who demand a deposit upfront without letting you confirm the phone’s legitimacy [7] X Research source
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Plan to shop in the fall. Apple tends to drop their latest and greatest devices during autumn (September, especially). Whenever a new iPhone model is released, shop around for last year’s model (or even older models). Chances are, the prices will be knocked down after the newest iPhone hits the market. [8] X Research source
- This trick likely won’t net you a free iPhone, but it’s helpful to keep in mind as you shop.
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Ask a friend or relative if you can have their phone after they upgrade. If any of your friends or loved ones upgrade to a new iPhone without using some sort of trade-in program, they’ll have an unused device on their hands. Ask if they’d be willing to give or sell you the old phone once their new device is activated.
- Given how expensive iPhones are, it’s more courteous to buy the phone rather than expect a freebie.
Expert Q&A
Tips
- Try to shop around special holidays, like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Memorial Day, and so on. You might find some better iPhone deals at these times. [12] X Research sourceThanks
- Remember the cardinal rule of shopping: if the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.Thanks
References
- ↑ https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/01/technology/personaltech/free-iphone-promotions.html
- ↑ https://www.apple.com/shop/trade-in
- ↑ https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/unlocked-phones-vs-locked-ones-everything-you-need-to-know/
- ↑ https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-get-the-best-price-on-a-cell-phone
- ↑ https://www.fcc.gov/general/lifeline-program-low-income-consumers
- ↑ https://www.lifelinesupport.org/do-i-qualify/
- ↑ https://www.facebook.com/help/1086141928978559
- ↑ https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/finance/6-ways-to-save-money-on-an-iphone
- ↑ https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-avoid-phishing-scams