AT&T's Latest Move Doesn't Please Millions of Americans: Verizon Rubs Its Hands

AT&T has announced a measure that could directly affect its customers' wallets. Following in the footsteps of Verizon, the carrier recently confirmed that it will not cover the increase in mobile phone costs. This would be in case new tariffs are applied or device prices rise.

This announcement comes just after Hans Vestberg, Verizon's president, stated that his company would not assume the increases in smartphone tariffs. He was clear in saying that it will not be possible for the company to absorb those costs. Therefore, consumers could notice an increase in the final price of the phones.

"If the tariff is going to be as high as they say for the phone, we don't plan to cover it in our work," Vestberg declared. He thus revealed that ultimately, it will affect the end consumer.

These statements are particularly concerning to the customers of the country's major carriers. Two of them have already confirmed that the increases in phone costs will be passed directly to the customer. In other words, if manufacturers raise prices, it will be the users who will have to pay the difference.

AT&T Confirms What No One Wanted to Hear

John Stankey, AT&T's CEO, recently confirmed that his company will also not cover these increases. In case the tariffs imposed by the current administration make phones more expensive, AT&T will seek new ways. But always with the customer bearing that increase.

He also noted that companies are operating with less clarity due to the trade policies driven by Donald Trump's government. The administration seeks to strengthen national production and apply broader tariffs on foreign products.

Direct Impact on Consumers

This policy change is not minor. For years, major carriers like AT&T and Verizon have offered promotions and subsidies to facilitate the purchase of smartphones. But now, with a possible increase in tariffs and without the companies' support to cover those extra costs, users will need to prepare their wallets.

Renewing the mobile device will be more expensive. It's something many are already prepared for.

It is not known for certain how much prices will increase. But it is clear that this measure could mark a turning point in access to new mobile phones in the United States.

As expected, AT&T's decision to follow Verizon's example has caused concern among its millions of customers. While the carriers justify their stance on economic uncertainty and new tariff policies, the truth is that the final impact will fall on consumers. If you are thinking of changing your phone soon, this could be the ideal time to do so before prices rise even more.