Verizon will give you a free iPad or Apple Watch with your next iPhone - how the deal works

Verizon has launched a significant hardware bundle promotion, allowing customers to get a high-value Apple accessory for free with a new iPhone purchase. The deal, which applies to both new and existing subscribers, offers a choice between the latest A16 iPad or a recent Apple Watch model (Series 11, Series 10, or SE 3) at no extra cost. Crucially, this offer does not require a trade-in, representing a potential savings of over $2,000 compared to buying the devices separately. To qualify, customers must purchase any iPhone model and activate a new smartphone line on either Verizon's Unlimited Ultimate plan ($50/month) or Unlimited Plus plan ($40/month), with prices locked for three years.

For the free iPad or Apple Watch, a corresponding new tablet or wearable line must also be added to the chosen Unlimited plan. The promotion extends to Android users with a parallel offer: purchasing a Samsung Galaxy smartphone nets a free Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE 5G tablet or Galaxy Watch8. The deal is somewhat buried on Verizon's website under the "Smartwatches, tablets, and bundles" section, requiring users to add both the phone and the accessory to their cart for the discount to apply automatically. ZDNET's editors have rated this promotion a perfect 5/5, noting its exceptional value, especially as it applies to the entire iPhone lineup, including the flagship iPhone 17 Pro Max.