What are the differences between CDMA and GSM in the iPhone 5 - A1429

Question

What are the differences between CDMA and GSM in the iPhone 5 - A1429

I saw at one of the discussions here that the CDMA version of the iPhone 5 will be capable of using GSM networks around the world.

I've seen at "Cellular & Wireless" below "Tech Specs" of the iPhone: (Apple's Website:)

CDMA model A1429*: CDMA EV-DO Rev. A and Rev. B (800, 1900, 2100 MHz);UMTS/HSPA+/DC-HSDPA (850, 900, 1900, 2100 MHz); GSM/EDGE (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz); LTE (Bands 1, 3, 5, 13, 25)
GSM model A1429*: UMTS/HSPA+/DC-HSDPA (850, 900, 1900, 2100 MHz); GSM/EDGE (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz); LTE (Bands 1, 3, 5)

In conclusion, all of the frequencies at the CDMA A1429 include the frequencies of the GSM A1429 and more!

So, if the GSM is being concluded at the CDMA model, why should Apple manufacture the 2 models as different models? They should manufacture only the CDMA which includes inside it the GSM's frequencies. It's strange to me, I'd like for some explain. 🙂

One more question. Does Apple sell the CDMA model SIM-FREE without contract in the US? I mean, can I buy it, pay once and go home?

Thanks.

iPhone 5

Posted on Dec 31, 2012 7:53 AM

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Answer 1

KiltedTim

Level 10

229,626 points

Dec 31, 2012 12:10 PM in response to DavidOfGoldberg

The CDMA models are manufactured exclusively for use with CDMA carriers. They can be used for international roaming on GSM carriers, but can not be truly, completely unlocked. There are known issues using some features (including SMS) with GSM carriers. The A1429 CDMA is not sold as unlocked. The A1429 GSM is not sold at all in the U.S.

If you need a phone that works with non-US LTE networks, then buy one in Europe or Asia.

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Answer 2

carl wolf

Level 6

14,631 points

Dec 31, 2012 5:06 PM in response to DavidOfGoldberg

"why should Apple manufacture the 2 models as different models?"

Apple doesn't manufacture two models with the same model number. The "1429" iPhone can utilze either the GSM or CDMA protocol, depending upon the carrier's system. In the US, Apple offers an unlocked "1428" iPhone 5, for use on GSM networks. I live in Bangkok, and Apple - and Premium Resellers - offer the "1429" iPhone, which can be used on either GSM or CDMA networks.

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Answer 3

JosephPA

Level 1

0 points

Jul 7, 2013 9:40 AM in response to carl wolf

If this is the case, then why does the Apple Italy site say:

"Gli iPhone 4, iPhone 4S e iPhone 5 senza contratto non funzionano con gli operatori CDMA

which translates as the unlocked iPhone 5 (without contract) will not work with CDMA operators. This being a 1429 model...?

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Answer 4

diesel vdub

Level 7

22,184 points

Jul 7, 2013 5:57 PM in response to JosephPA

It's really very simple, there is no such thing as an unlocked CDMA device.

Few if any CDMA carriers will activate a device on their network that was sold for another network.

Unlocked only applies to GSM networks and devices.

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Answer 5

JosephPA

Level 1

0 points

Jul 8, 2013 3:46 AM in response to diesel vdub

Thanks diesel vdub. That is very clear.

So basically if I purchase a contract free 1429 model from the apple store in Europe, and bring it to the States without activating it in Europe, Verizon will turn me away anyhow?

Thanks!

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Answer 6

diesel vdub

Level 7

22,184 points

Jul 8, 2013 5:23 AM in response to JosephPA

Correct, Verizon will not activate a device on their network that was not specifically sold for their network.

Sprint does the same.

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Answer 7

KiltedTim

Level 10

229,626 points

Jul 8, 2013 7:42 AM in response to JosephPA

The CDMA portion of the A1429 sold in Europe is disabled. Even if Verizon, Sprint, or any other US carrier allowed you to bring your own phone, it would be physically impossible for them to activate the phone on their network.

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