Save On Wireless, the only wireless price comparison platform that calculates and displays the true total cost of ownership for phone and plan deals across carriers, today released its inaugural 2026 Q1 Wireless Savings Report. The report analyzes an average of more than 84,000 postpaid deals per day across AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox, and Optimum, generating over 7.6 million consumer scenarios.
The report addresses a persistent and costly problem: most Americans pay more for wireless service than necessary, largely because the marketplace is structured in ways that make true costs difficult to identify. According to the report, in 92% of Q1 2026 scenarios, the lowest total cost of ownership is not the steepest advertised device discount. Shoppers who choose a "free" phone over a comparable partial credit offer at the same carrier pay $1,184 more on average over 36 months due to premium plan requirements.
"Carriers often promote 'free' phones with flashy ads, but those deals typically lock consumers into premium plans that significantly increase the total cost," said a spokesperson for Save On Wireless. The platform helps shoppers cut through carrier marketing slogans to find real savings based on what a deal actually costs, not just the best advertised price.
Built by the same team behind Navi, Save On Wireless surfaces the best phone and plan deals and explains the fine print. It is the only price comparison tool that calculates and displays the total cost of ownership for phone deals, including plan fees, term commitments, and hidden requirements, making it easier for consumers to quickly compare options and find the true best value.
To view the full announcement, including downloadable images, bios, and more, click here.
