Verizon promo: Get the iPhone 16 Pro Max for free

SAVE $1,199.99: As of June 16, you can get a free iPhone 16 Pro Max ($1,199.99 retail) when you open a new line on Verizon's Unlimited Ultimate plan.

Usually, when the word “free” is thrown around, there’s a catch. But Verizon’s latest offer is actually legit, and it’s an incredible deal for anyone looking to switch carriers.

As of June 16, you can get a brand new iPhone 16 Pro Max for $0. It's an aggressive play by Verizon to win new customers, and a pretty good deal if you're eligible.

Even though the iPhone 16 Pro Max has been out for a while now, it’s still a solid choice for a smartphone. (It’s also a Mashable Choice Award Winner for its extra-long battery life.) You’ll also get a massive 6.9-inch all-screen OLED display and a powerful A18 Pro chip.

To get the phone for “free," you have to sign up for a new line on Verizon's Unlimited Ultimate plan (which starts at $65 per month). When you buy the phone on a payment plan, Verizon applies $1,199.99 in promotional credits to your account, spread out over 36 months. That monthly credit completely cancels out the phone's payment, bringing its cost down to zero.

Of course, the main catch is the 36-month commitment. The phone isn't truly free if you decide to switch carriers before the three years are up. If you cancel your line early, you'll have to pay off the remaining balance on the phone. But if you're ready to commit, this is one of the best ways to get a flagship phone without the flagship price tag.