It applies to cars as well...
Also peripherally, software packages too...For instance Adobe audio editing software...You have to pay a monthly fee to use any current Adobe software...or it won't work.
Can you say "Chromebook?"
It is the old business model of the Bell System...you pay a monthly fee...and you do not own any of the equipment (phones, wire, connectors)...and you are not allowed to make any changes to the installation.