Unlocked Cell Phones FAQ

Lately, there's been a lot of buzz surrounding unlocked cell phones and for good reason. People are tired of wasting money on expensive phones that will only work with one network. This strong desire for freedom and portability, is driving the growing popularity of these unlocked cell phones. Still, many people are unaware of what an unlocked cellular phone actually is and how they can be used. Let's take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions in regard to these new unlocked phones.

What exactly is an unlocked cell phone?
An unlocked cell phone is simply a mobile phone that can be programmed to accept different service provider information. What this essentially means is that a cellphone purchased to work with one service provider such as T-Mobile, can be transferred to another service provider like AT&T with a few simple programming steps.

Can't any cell phone be able to do this?
No. The only cellphones that can currently be unlocked are GSM (Global System for Mobile communications) cell phones. GSM cell phones are the most popular standard for mobile phones around the world and are the only phones capable of handling these information changes.

How do unlocked cellular phones work?
Unlocked cell phone service works by altering the SIM card information in the phone itself. A SIM (Subscriber Information Module) card, contains the user's information, the phone's serial number, and the phone number. When a phone is initally activated by the service provider, the SIM card is programmed with specific information so it will only be allowed to work with that particular service.

What is the benefit of this type of phone?
An unlocked cell phone gives their owner more freedom to use their phone as they please. When an expensive cell phone, that happens to be one that can be unlocked, is purchased, the investment allows the use of different service providers and plans throughout the world. This eliminates the need to commit to a lengthy contract with a service provider. Freedom of choice is the ultimate benefit that unlocked phones provide.

Where can I buy these types of phones?
GMS phones are sold by most service providers including AT&T and T-Mobile, as well as in many cell phone retail stores. However, a GSM cell phone purchased from a provider or store will not be unlocked. Therefore, you will either have to unlock your cell phone yourself, have a company do it for you, or purchase an unlocked cell phone from a secondary provider. Probably the best source for purchasing cheap unlocked cell phones is on eBay. eBay carries an extensive selection of cell phones that are unlocked, and most of them are significantly cheaper than those sold elsewhere.