Starting September 24, China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom have halted new applications for installment plans on smartphones and other devices. Customer support representatives across several regions confirmed the suspension of these internal programs.
The move targets schemes marketed as zero-cost devices bundled with service plans. These offers often involved hidden credit agreements where the device cost was integrated into monthly bills. Such practices became a frequent source of consumer complaints.
Offline retailers frequently utilized these installment schemes to boost sales through promotional campaigns. Many users were unaware they were entering into formal credit agreements, leading to issues where missed payments negatively impacted their personal credit scores.
While new applications for installment plans and zero-payment bundles are no longer accepted, existing contracts remain in effect. Current customers will continue to pay off their debts according to the terms originally agreed upon at the time of purchase.
