That is not material. The OP asked about purchasing a phone with the Apple Upgrade Program. That program requires that you activate with one of the major cellular carriers. That is one of the requirements for the AUP. The phones that come with the AUP are unlocked, however, you cannot get in the program if you are not with one of the major carriers. What you do after that is up to you, but you have to have an account with a major carrier to participate in the AUP. Otherwise, just purchase whatever phone you want. Read up on the AUP. iPhone Upgrade Program - Apple