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Verizon to raise early termination fees for 'advanced devices'

Verizon hikes up its early termination fee for "advanced devices," which presumably includes smartphones.

Nicole Lee Former Editor
Nicole Lee is a senior associate editor for CNET, covering cell phones, Bluetooth headsets, and all things mobile. She's also a fan of comic books, video games, and of course, shiny gadgets.
Nicole Lee

Boy Genius Report

Aside from the cost of the device and the expensive monthly plan, you might have to face an additional charge just for the privilege of getting a smartphone.

According to a document found by the Boy Genius Report, Verizon Wireless has raised its $175 early termination fee to a whopping $350 specifically for "advanced devices," which probably includes all smartphones. The termination fee won't stay at $350 however: the sum will decrease by $10 for every month of service.

This isn't exactly painting Verizon Wireless in a positive light here, though we suspect it's just a way for the carrier to prevent customers from dropping a phone and selling it for a premium on eBay or Craigslist. The new $350 ETF will go into effect on November 15.