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Beginning in May, a special Today at Apple series titled “Made for Business” will offer small business owners and entrepreneurs free opportunities to learn how Apple products and services can support their growth and success. Learn more >
Beginning in May, a special Today at Apple series titled “Made for Business” will offer small business owners and entrepreneurs free opportunities to learn how Apple products and services can support their growth and success. Learn more >
What is the difference between a locked or unlocked iPhone 5? I know with a locked phone you are pretty much forced to stay with a certain carrier, am I right?
I plan to buy an iPhone soon and use Wal*Mart's StraightTalk service, should I buy the phone from them or the apple store?
Wal*Mart's StraightTalk service for those who want to answer my question and need the research.
You are correct.
A locked iphone can only be used with one carrier.
An unlocked iphone will work with any carrier.
You are correct.
A locked iphone can only be used with one carrier.
An unlocked iphone will work with any carrier.
Any recommendation as to whether I should buy the phone from Apple or Wal*Mart? There does seem to be an off chance that Wal*Mart's phone may be locked, not sure.
I've never shopped at Walmart (as I live in Aus).
Personally, if I can buy direct from the people who know it best (the manufacturer) - that's the way I would go.
Also, Apple's staff aren't commission based and my experience with service has always been fantastic. They also provide a service called Personal Setup at no charge, where they can introduce you to your new phone and get you up and running at no additional charge.
I'd go Apple.
If I were to buy the phone from apple and wanted to connect to ATT, would I be forced to sign a contract, given that the phone is unlocked, or does the unlock apply only for which carriers the phone CAN be used in? Also, since I (hypothetically) bought the phone at full price, would I have to pay the 80.00$ (minimum) subsidized monthly fee?
Honestly mate, I won't bluff my way through an answer here.
As I live in Aus, I haven't dealt with AT&T. Great questions to ask a Specialist at your local Apple Retail Store though.
Cheers.
Thanks for your help, I'll be sure to call or visit an Apple store.
If you buy an unlocked phone from Apple and bring it in to ATT for cel service you will they will NOT force you to sign a two year contract. You will be able to cancel at any time without penalties. The WalMart phone will most likely be locked to Straight Talk. The prices for unlocked phones are usually $400 more than for the "subsidized" ones.
iPhone locked/unlocked
