Unlocked Cell Phones - The Pros & Cons
When you buy a brand new cell phone from any major network service provider, the phones are usually locked so that they will not work with other carriers. This basically means you can only use that provider's network. You will not be able to take the phone and sign up to a different network. Network providers claim that this is necessary to subsidize the cost of the phones.
A locked cell phone has a code embedded into the SIM card that locks it to a specific provider. The owner of the cell phone does not have access to modify this software setting on the SIM card, thus the subscriber becomes tied to the phone service carrier. With unlocked cell phones, you totally remove that restriction. If a cell phone has been unlocked, you will be able to just plug in the appropriate network's SIM card and you will be able to use the phone. Unlocked cell phones are in great demand so much so that third party services have sprouted all over that will unlock your cell phone for a fee. Never assume that your mobile service provider will unlock your cell phone for you free when your contract with them ended. Some think that after fulfilling the contract period, their phone will be unlocked automatically but, the fact is, it is not necessary so. In some countries, mobile service providers are not obliged to unlock the phone for consumer even when the contract period ended. In order to continue using the phone, consumer will need to stick to the same mobile service provider.
Tips To Unlock Your Cell Phone
There are many ways to unlock your cell phone and generally all that's needed is a computer and internet access. You can unlock them by contacting your service provider and for a small fee some providers will give you the access code. There are also software programs that will unlock your phone for you. You can find many online by doing a search. Here's Wikihow's step by step guide on how to unlock your cell phone. But here is a warning though - attempting to unlock your phone is done at your own risk. Although unlocking your phone is legal, some cell phone operators might choose to void your warranty should you unlock your phone.
These cell phones can be used with various GSM-compatible carriers worldwide. The majority of cell phones can be used within the US with carriers such as T-Mobile, Cingular/AT&T, and other providers and many other GSM service providers around the world.
Where to Buy A Cheap Unlocked Cell Phone
One way to get an unlocked phone without proprietary settings is to buy it new from a third party vendor in its original, unlocked state. The downside is that the price is commonly close to full retail. Some consumers might find it difficult on their pockets for a phone that costs $500 that they can get for free with a plan.
The variety of unlocked phones is much wider than the choice of locked handsets. You can get models with unique designs or high-end features such as powerful cameras or music players. If you're looking for cheap unlocked cell phones, search any online internet market place or ebay auction site and you'll find great offers and a wide range of cell phones by reputable manufacturers. Puremobile.com offers a wide range of unlocked cell phones. There are many different types of unlocked cell phones that can fit your need. Nokia, Motorola, and Sony Ericsson have some of the most popular diverse unlocked cell phones. Some of them are only sold as an unlocked phone. Sony's excellent K790A comes to mind.
If you're buying from an individual, make sure that the cell phone is actually unlocked. You would be surprised at the number of people who use this in their description whenever they really do not understand what it means. Just make sure you ask ahead of time so that you don't end up with something you do not actually need.
For a price comparison visit Nextag to get an idea of the current price trends. Be sure to read cnet's excellent unlocked cell phone guide before you make a purchase.