I would like to get an iPhone although not thrilled with the prospect of a contract. Text messaging usage would be minimal at best whereas phone use would be minimal as well. I like the ability to web search if needed.
Is there a prepaid card I could use which would cover this type of usage?
Windows Vista
The answer is Yes
it is NOT a restriction of the phone
what country are you in?
You'll need to buy an unlocked iPhone from Apple, $649, $749 or $849 depending on the storage size for the 4s, $549 for an iPhone 4 with 8GB.
Then you can talk with T-Mobile about a prepaid plan. Do remember that T-Moblie is not a supported iPhone provider so some features may not work consistently and in most areas you will not get 3G, you will be limited to EDGE speeds. AT&T and Sprint do not offer pre-paid iPhone service as you describe, I do not know Verizon policies.
Depends upon the cell provider you intend to use it with.
I'm located in the US. I presently have a cell w/ T mobile as the carrier.
http://www.mycricket.com/iphone
Can I operate an iPhone with a prepaid phone card
