Is it fair that Verizon is now axing one-year contracts? That’s a loaded question, probably. For a consumer, there’s plenty of incentive to pick the two-year contract over the one-year, namely there’s a larger discount on the device of choice if you go the former route, rather than the latter. And for most, saving as much money right up-front is where all the action is. But it looks like Verizon is continuing on their trek of reducing options for customers, and the object on the chopping block is one-year contracts. As of yesterday, Verizon has confirmed that on April 17th, that’ll be your last chance to get your one-year contract signed, and then it’s just two-years for the rest.
But, is it fair? Some might say that, without a doubt that it is. After all, it’s Verizon, it’s their network and it’s their contracts. They can do whatever they want, and as long as you know about the change from the get-go, there’s no reason why it shouldn’t be considered fair. It’s not like they’re tricking you into getting into a two-year contract rather than a one-year, based on some sneaky movements. Nope, it’s a done deal and Verizon’s making it happen sooner rather than later.
But, what about those who might say that it isn’t fair. After all, Verizon was one of the only carriers out there to still allow for one-year contracts, and that may have been a huge draw towards potential customers. Because some people may not mind paying more up-front for their device at the beginning of their contract, if it means that they’re not tied down to their contract for two years. It’s all about the options, and now hat Verizon is axing one more, it seems that some potential customers may shy away from Verizon altogether, and go for another carrier, based on this move alone.
I think the question of whether or not it is “fair” isn’t really a fair question for Verizon. After all, they’re a business and they need to do what’s best for the business. If a load of one-year contracts is causing some financial hurt somewhere in the depths of Verizon’s money pit, then it’s obvious as to why they’d want to cut the cord and free the burden. But, we won’t really know why Verizon’s deciding to go this route, and that may be for the best. Their reasoning could be something superfluous like “We just didn’t want them anymore,” or “Everyone else was doing it.” And that may not go over so well with the customers, and it would more than likely shove new customers away in droves.
Is it fair that Verizon is cutting one-year contracts out of the picture? Probably. The end result may be fewer new customers right away, but let’s face it: expanding 4G range and new handsets that people want will more than likely bring all those customers and more right back into the arms of Big Red. Shiny new devices with a new, two-year contract? Yes please. As long as the price is right, of course.
But, what do you think of Verizon’s move to remove one-year contracts? Think it’s the right move for Verizon, or are they treading down the wrong path with this one? Let me know in the comments what you think.
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