Verizon this weekend sought to fend off T-Mobile’s attempt to woo Google Pixel fans with its own special offer.
Verizon on Friday said it would offer new customers up to $400 in account credits when they switch carriers, trade in a device and buy the Pixel from Verizon. The carrier said it will also offer up to $300 in account credits to existing customers who trade in their old device and buy the Pixel.
The move appeared to be a direct response to T-Mobile’s Thursday offer for BYOD customers of up to $325 back on the cost of the Pixel through 24 months of bill credits after proof of purchase is given on a validation site.
“Verizon’s Pixel offer is hassle free because we simply credit your account,” the carrier wrote. “We don’t make you go to a validation website to file for the credit as you cross your fingers and wait.”
In its offer description, Verizon also took a shot at T-Mobile’s new unlimited plan by noting the Un-carrier is only offering its Pixel promotion to customers who sign up for its $70 per month T-Mobile One subscription.
The battle comes as other carriers look to capitalize on the major Pixel release ahead of the holidays and in the wake of Samsung’s disastrous Galaxy Note 7 launch and recall. Google named Verizon as its exclusive carrier distribution partner, but the company is also selling unlocked versions of the Pixel online.
From the look of it, Verizon – which in the past has prided itself on not chasing every offer in the marketplace – is desperate to keep whatever advantage the Pixel distribution will give it and isn’t going to give up customers to T-Mobile without a fight.
