Verizon has implemented a new policy imposing a 35-day waiting period for customers seeking to unlock their phones after paying off device installment plans, according to Ars Technica. This change, which affects postpaid customers, requires a delay regardless of whether the payment is made online, through the Verizon app, over the phone, or at authorized retailers. The only apparent exception is paying off the device plan at a Verizon corporate store, which allows for immediate unlocking.
The new policy comes as consumers seek greater flexibility with their devices. Unlocking a phone allows it to be used on another network, providing customers with the option to switch carriers. This move by Verizon has been met with criticism, as it restricts user choice and potentially hinders competition.
In other tech news, the GameSir Pocket Taco, a $35 controller, is being touted as an excellent way to turn a phone into a Game Boy, as reported by The Verge. The controller clamps onto the bottom of a phone and can also function as a standalone wireless gamepad. Senior reporter Andrew Liszewski, who has been covering and reviewing gadgets since 2006, noted the controller's appeal for retro gaming enthusiasts.
Meanwhile, the Apple Watch continues to be the best fitness tracker for iPhone users, according to Wired. The publication highlighted the Apple Watch SE 3, Apple Watch Series 11, and Apple Watch Ultra 3 as top choices, each with unique features and attributes. The article also mentioned the return of the blood oxygen sensor, which had been removed due to lawsuits and bans in previous years.
Also in the tech world, choosing a gaming laptop in 2026 is more complex than ever, Wired reported. With options ranging from high-performance machines to those prioritizing thinness and design, consumers face a wide array of choices. The article advised readers to consider their specific needs when selecting a gaming laptop, drawing on the experience of a reviewer who has tested numerous models over a decade.
Finally, The Verge reported on the power of the phone as a tool of resistance, while also acknowledging its potential as a tool of state power. The article highlighted an incident where a man was tackled by federal agents while holding a phone.
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