Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE: VZ) announced the launch of the iPhone 18 Pro lineup alongside its new Simplicity pricing plans. The carrier is offering the latest Apple devices without trade-in requirements for switchers.

Preorders for the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, Apple Watch Series 12, Apple Watch Ultra 4, and AirPods 5 begin on September 12 at 8 am ET. Wide availability follows on September 18. The iPhone Duo, a foldable model, will be available to pre-order starting October 16.

Pricing and Plans

Verizon introduced the Simplicity plan, which eliminates tiered network confusion. The plan includes unlimited 5G Ultra Wideband data, 10GB of premium mobile hotspot, and roaming in Canada and Mexico. Switchers can get the iPhone 18 Pro now and upgrade every year with Simplicity Pro for $80 a month after Auto Pay and switcher discounts, plus taxes and fees.

Existing customers can save up to $1,200 on a new iPhone with an eligible myPlan by trading in an eligible phone. Upgrades on existing lines offer up to $1,020 off. These credits are applied monthly over 36 months.

Device Highlights

The iPhone 18 Pro features a redesigned 48MP Fusion Main camera with variable aperture. It is powered by the A20 Pro chip. The iPhone 18 Pro Max delivers the biggest jump in battery life ever on an iPhone. The iPhone Duo features a 7.6-inch inner display and a 5.4-inch outer display.

Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 include the S11 chip and a new Health Sensing System. AirPods 5 offer Active Noise Cancellation in an open-ear design.

Loyalty Benefits

Verizon Loyalty removes activation and upgrade fees for all postpaid customers. Members earn 3% back in Verizon Dollars every month. The program also provides access to Verizon Shine, which offers daily drops and experiences.

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE: VZ) will waive domestic call, text, and data charges for consumer and small business customers on Kaua'i through September 14. The relief measure aims to maintain connectivity as Major Hurricane Lowell threatens the island.

The waiver applies automatically to prepaid and postpaid users without requiring customer action. It extends to Verizon’s value brands, including Straight Talk, Tracfone, and SafeLink Wireless. Small business eligibility is capped at 50 lines.

Network Resilience Measures

Verizon has activated response teams and deployed infrastructure safeguards across Hawai'i. Key preparations include:

• Backup Power: Permanent site generators are fully refueled, providing multiple days of reserve power. Portable generators are staged for sites lacking permanent units.
• Satellite Assets: Satellite equipment is available for dispatch to reinforce operational resilience if terrestrial services fail.
• Collaboration: The company is coordinating with the Hawai'i Emergency Management Agency (HIEMA), local power providers, and public safety officials.

Customer Preparedness Guidelines

Verizon advises residents and businesses to finalize digital preparedness plans ahead of the storm. Recommended steps include:

• Charging all mobile devices and portable power banks before storm warnings are issued.
• Protecting electronics with waterproof accessories or heavy-duty zip-lock bags.
• Establishing a family emergency communication plan and saving key contacts.
• Checking on elders to ensure their devices are charged and plans are in place.
• Uploading photos of homes and valuables to the cloud for insurance purposes.
• Downloading weather tracking and safety apps from the American Red Cross.

Businesses are urged to inventory corporate hardware, review insurance coverage gaps, and establish protocols to reroute workloads if remote employees face evacuation or power loss.

Satellite Messaging Capability

Customers with compatible satellite-enabled devices, such as iPhone 14 or newer running iOS 18+ and Google Pixel 9 or newer, can use emergency satellite messaging. Verizon encourages testing these features before the storm impacts the region.

Real-time network status updates will be available via the Check Network Status tool on Verizon's website and the My Verizon mobile app. Aimee Novak, West Area President for Verizon, emphasized the company's commitment to keeping the community connected during the crisis.