Updated
Updated · Variety · Jun 16
Verizon Drops Activation Fees, Offers 3% Back as It Launches Simplicity Plan Campaign
Updated
Updated · Variety · Jun 16

Verizon Drops Activation Fees, Offers 3% Back as It Launches Simplicity Plan Campaign

2 articles · Updated · Variety · Jun 16

Summary

  • Verizon’s new Simplicity Plan removes activation and upgrade fees for customers who already pay for phone service, aiming to cut friction around buying new devices.
  • A new Verizon Dollars program adds 3% back in promotional currency each month, redeemable from July for devices, accessories and partner brands including Sephora, Hilton, Marriott and Starbucks.
  • Mike Myers’ “Austin Powers” cast and the original “Yo Soy Betty, la Fea” stars front parallel campaigns that begin Tuesday, with Verizon using humor and nostalgia to spotlight simpler pricing.
  • The ads will run for two to three months across Fox, Telemundo, Disney and Paramount properties, plus Netflix, YouTube, Roku, radio, theaters and outdoor sites in four U.S. cities.
  • Verizon said the Spanish-language push is equally important, underscoring its effort to reach Spanish-speaking customers as it tries to break from industry pricing habits.

Insights

Can Verizon's nostalgic Austin Powers ad campaign successfully sell a futuristic 5G plan to a new generation of consumers?
Is Verizon's 'Simplicity Plan' a genuine move to help customers, or a complex new way to lock them into its ecosystem?
With Verizon eliminating common fees, will competitors be forced to follow, potentially ending the era of junk fees in the mobile industry?