Are replacement iPhones unlocked?

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Level 1

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Are replacement iPhones unlocked?

Hi,

Apple is sending me a replacement iPhone 4 after my first one started to overheat when plugged in (I'm guess battery, fuse or logic board problem), but luckily I'm still under warranty. What I'm interested in knowing is whether the replacement unit will be factory locked to Vodafone, as was the original, or will it be unlocked? I'm moving to the UK in the next few months and I'd like to be able to use the device on other networks, or at least have the option.

I'm also curious to know if the replacement unit is brand new or a refurbished model?

Any info would be greatly appreciated!

iPhone 4, iOS 4.3.2, Warranty for second owner

Posted on Jun 7, 2011 12:43 PM

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Answer 1

gdgmacguy

Level 7

21,891 points

Jun 7, 2011 12:44 PM in response to TrisMcC

Your replacement phone will be exactly what your original phone was. If your original phone was locked to a carrier, your replacement will be locked. If you bought your phone unlocked, your replacement will be unlocked.

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Answer 2

TrisMcC Author

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Jun 7, 2011 12:46 PM in response to gdgmacguy

Ok,

Thanks for your reply, so who do I approach to request an unlock, Vodafone or Apple?

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Answer 3

varjak paw

Level 10

182,680 points

Jun 7, 2011 12:47 PM in response to TrisMcC

Only the carrier can authorize an unlock, so you would need to talk to Vodafone.

Regards.

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Answer 4

TrisMcC Author

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Jun 7, 2011 12:52 PM in response to varjak paw

Fair enough, thanks for the info guys! Does anyone know if the replacement iPhone is new or a refurbished unit?

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Answer 5

gdgmacguy

Level 7

21,891 points

Jun 7, 2011 12:53 PM in response to TrisMcC

No way to tell

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Answer 6

varjak paw

Level 10

182,680 points

Jun 7, 2011 12:53 PM in response to TrisMcC

Most likely it will be refurbished.

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Answer 7

TrisMcC Author

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Jun 7, 2011 12:55 PM in response to TrisMcC

I wanted to give you both a correct answer feedback, I didn't know I could only give it to one, sorry gdgmacguy

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Answer 8

wjosten

Level 10

95,369 points

Jun 7, 2011 12:59 PM in response to TrisMcC

You could give him/her two helpful's....

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Answer 9

mzaky86

Level 1

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Dec 21, 2011 7:22 PM in response to TrisMcC

I have a similar issue,

i unlocked my iPhone4s online through vodaphone but had to have it replaced becuse it was overheating. i restored the new phone from an iCloud backup of the old one. does this mean that my new phone is now also unlocked?

i'm going overseas in 3 days and desparately need to know before i leave!

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