Because not everyone has access to those sorts of plans. In addition such plans, when they are available, invariably lock you in for a set period committing yo

Because not everyone has access to those sorts of plans. In addition such plans, when they are available, invariably lock you in for a set period committing you to regular payments. Either that or the “free phone” is paid back out of the term of the contract thus still requiring you to pay full price at the get go. This is how it goes, at least here in the USA.