We had the “framily” plan from way back. They did the same to us in 2020. Eventually, you could not update your device without upgrading your plan.
We all bailed, lol
Edit: Almost forgot! I had call them 3 (three!!!) times to finally get the service cancelled. By no accident, I’m sure. And they still left me with the 3 month bill.
Not everyone has the luxury of spending $1200 cash on a phone outright. Unfortunately, the payment plan is a big factor for a lot of people (in a “family” plan.)