Less known benefits of US carriers that you may not be aware of.

      In the competitive arena of US mobile carriers, AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and others are constantly trying to capture your interest with eye-catching deals on the latest smartphones and promises of extensive coverage. Yet, beyond these prominent offers, a wealth of often-neglected perks and benefits exists that can greatly improve your mobile experience and even help you save money. These perks frequently change, so it's wise to check carrier websites for the latest information on available benefits.

      Let’s explore some of these lesser-known advantages (as of this writing) from the big three and a few additional carriers.

      **Verizon: Dependability with Surprising Rewards**

      Grok

      Verizon is regularly commended for its reliable network, but it also offers some intriguing perks you might not be aware of:

      - **Verizon Up:** This rewards initiative allows you to earn credits simply by engaging in everyday activities like paying your bill. You can redeem these credits for a variety of rewards, including gift cards, device discounts, and unique experiences. Keep an eye on the Verizon Up section in your My Verizon app for new and exciting offers!

      - **Complimentary Disney+ and other streaming services (on select plans):** Some Verizon Unlimited plans come with subscriptions to popular streaming platforms such as Disney+, Hulu, or ESPN+. This is a great way to save money if you already subscribe to these services.

      - **5G Ultra Wideband Access (in eligible areas):** 5G technology is highly relevant today, and Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband network is recognized for its incredibly fast speeds in select regions. If you're located in an area where it's offered and possess a compatible device, this "hidden" feature can significantly enhance your download and streaming speeds. Be sure to check Verizon’s coverage maps to see if you’re in an Ultra Wideband area!

      - **Verizon Cloud:** Many Verizon customers can access Verizon Cloud, a storage service for your photos, videos, contacts, and more. The amount of free storage available may vary based on your plan, but it's a practical way to back up essential items and access them on any device.

      - **Device Trade-In Programs:** Although advertised, the value of Verizon’s trade-in programs is often underestimated. Depending on the condition and model of your old phone, you could receive substantial credits toward a new device, reducing overall costs.

      As of this writing, Verizon is also promoting a three-year price lock, which can be especially beneficial during uncertain times when the prices of new smartphones may rise.

      **T-Mobile: The Overlooked Benefits**

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      Renowned for its disruptive tactics, T-Mobile provides numerous perks that go beyond merely unlimited data:

      - **T-Mobile Tuesdays:** This weekly program offers customers various freebies and discounts from well-known brands, covering food, drinks, movie tickets, and travel deals. Downloading the T-Mobile Tuesdays app is crucial for accessing these frequently updated offers.

      - **Netflix on Us (on select plans):** Some T-Mobile plans come with a standard or even premium Netflix subscription at no extra cost. This can lead to significant ongoing savings for those who are already subscribed to the streaming service. Checking plan specifics is essential to confirm eligibility.

      - **Free Scam Shield Protection:** T-Mobile provides its Scam Shield app and features at no cost, offering strong defenses against robocalls and scams. This includes caller ID, scam blocking, and an option to report suspicious numbers, which can enhance your peace of mind.

      - **International Coverage (available on many plans):** T-Mobile is noted for its generous international roaming benefits compared to its rivals. Many plans offer free text and data (at slower speeds) in numerous countries, making it simpler and more affordable to stay connected while traveling. High-speed international data passes are often available as well.

      - **Project 10 Million:** While not a benefit for all users, T-Mobile's Project 10 Million is a noteworthy initiative providing free internet services and mobile devices to eligible low-income households with school-aged children. This highlights a commitment to digital equity beyond standard carrier offerings.

      **AT&T: More Than Just Calls and Texts**

      Grok

      In addition to its strong network, AT&T discreetly offers several valuable extras. Unfortunately, these deals often don’t match the quality of previous offers, such as free HBO Max:

      - **AT&T ActiveArmor:** While frequently presented as optional add-ons, some AT&T plans include basic versions of their Mobile Security and Call Protect apps. These features help protect your device from malware, identify and block spam calls, and create a more secure mobile experience. It's worth checking your plan to see if you have access to these features already.

      - **International Day Pass (for select users):** Certain AT&T plans incorporate the International Day Pass for international travelers. This allows you to use your domestic talk, text, and data allowances in many countries for a flat daily fee. This can be a more convenient and potentially cost-saving option than relying on roaming charges or acquiring local