How can I use an iPhone SE prepaid without a data plan?

Question

How can I use an iPhone SE prepaid without a data plan?

I recently purchased an iPhone SE (32G) from Target for $59 to replace a lost phone. I'm hoping the phone will turn up, but if not, I'm only out $59 plus Verizon's prepaid fees. It's considered a "phone in a box" and requires $150 of Verizon's prepaid services or one year of use in order for it to be unlocked or used to replace another phone. This all seems very odd to me; however, I'm thinking that for $59, I could use it as an ipod if nothing else! Has anyone else bought one of these "phone in a box" plans? I'm wondering if I could remove the SIM card and use another carrier's service, or is that even possible before the one year or $150 use of prepaid services? I can return the phone if I decide not to keep it, but $59 seems like a good price for an ipod!

iPhone SE, iOS 11.3.1, Phone in a box

Posted on May 17, 2018 1:10 PM

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Answer 1

ChrisJ4203

Level 10

236,701 points

May 17, 2018 4:27 PM in response to debrafromlanett

No, that is not what I said. You asked about using the device with another carrier, that is what you need to meet Verizon's restrictions for. You asked about removing the SIM and using another carrier's service.

As far as an iPod is concerned, yes, but an internet only device, you would have to use wi-fi for that, since you would not have cellular data for internet usage. I'm not sure about lapses, as I'm not a Verizon customer. Again, they would need to clarify any understandings you have about their services.

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Answer 2

LACAllen

Level 8

43,632 points

May 17, 2018 4:27 PM in response to debrafromlanett

I could not use the phone as an iPod or internet-only device PRIOR to meeting Verizon's restrictions?

I doubt it. The phone is a phone and needs to be activated by the carrier before any usage, iPod or otherwise. I would expect if you have not met your financial obligation to the carrier, you won't be able to activate the phone. It is a subsidized device. The low purchase fee is contingent on you completing the obligation to the carrier.

It was my understanding that if I let the prepaid lapse, I could use anything that didn't require cellular service.

If you sift through fine details of the agreement, I'll guess this is not true. A 32gb iPod Touch retails for $199.

I can't imagine skipping the prepaid requirement will end up getting the device for $59. If you spend the $150 credit, then yes, you can likely keep the device if that's the agreement with the carrier.

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Answer 3

May 17, 2018 1:27 PM in response to ChrisJ4203

Thanks, Chris. So are you saying I could not use the phone as an iPod or internet-only device PRIOR to meeting Verizon's restrictions? It was my understanding that if I let the prepaid lapse, I could use anything that didn't require cellular service.

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Answer 4

ChrisJ4203

Level 10

236,701 points

May 17, 2018 1:14 PM in response to debrafromlanett

I've not done one like that, however the need for a data plan is up to Verizon. Of course, without a data plan, you could be restricted to what things you can do, like no MMS, no mail, no internet period, unless connected to wi-fi. As far as using another SIM, you would have to get the phone unlocked, and you would need to meet Verizon's restrictions and then ask for the unlock. Only they could tell you if there are any restrictions besides what you indicated in your post.

There should also not be an issue using it as an iPod after you have exhausted your prepaid fees, as you could with any other iPhone.

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How can I use an iPhone SE prepaid without a data plan?

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