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Apple Now Selling contract free iPhones!!

gan6660

gan6660

macrumors 65816
Original poster
Aug 18, 2008
1,417
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Mod edit: originally this thread was titled "unlocked" instead of "contract free" as the Engadget article states. It has since been updated to "Contract free", same as the article has been to hopefully reduce confusion.
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Apple is now selling unlocked iphones in their stores without proof of AT&T service!
 
First update says:

Update: We're getting mixed reports on the unlock status of these phones. One store says yes to the unlock, while others are saying they're still AT&T-locked devices being sold off contract. We're digging for more info on this now, so stay tuned.
 
NorrisKillsKids said:
First update says:

Update: We're getting mixed reports on the unlock status of these phones. One store says yes to the unlock, while others are saying they're still AT&T-locked devices being sold off contract. We're digging for more info on this now, so stay tuned.
Click to expand...

ya, until I hear Apple and AT&T confirm it, I won't believe it
 
OK, I was at the apple store last week and they offered the phone to me without a contract. I then called AT&T to ask and they say that just to start service with an iPhone, even if i bring my own, I need to sign a two year contract. so I think if i want, I can get an unlocked phone from the apple store... it's just that nobody will give me service in the USA without the two year contract.

Will someone try to buy one and insert a sim card?
 
9to5mac update:

Update: Apple has confirmed the new plan and will be selling iPhones from the store this way at one unit per person per day. According to the employee we talked to, they would still be officially tied to AT&T, "but everyone knows it takes 2 minutes to unlock them".
 
Just got off apple chat and they are not dening it:

Apple: You are chatting with Justin, an Apple Expert
A: Hi, my name is Justin. Welcome to Apple!
A:How are you doing?
Me: Hi, Ive heard that you are now able to buy unlocked iphones at the apple retail stores. Is that true?
A: One moment while I research that for you.
Me: ok thanks
A: The Apple Retail Store is offering iPhones at full retail price.
Me: Are they locked to AT&T?
A: I am really sorry for keeping you waiting, I'll be just another moment.
Me: ok
A: At this time. The details are not available
Me: So is it possible they will be sold like this?
A: Just another minute...
A: I recommend that you contact the Apple Retail STore nearest you for more details.
Me: I wouldnt be able to purchase it unlocked on apple.com?
A: That option is not available on the Apple Online Store.
Me: But it may be in stores?
A: Your best option is to contact your local retail store, because I do not have any details available.
Me: ok thanks


Usually Apple just gives "I cannot comment on rumors or sepculation." But not this time.
 
Update 2: It's looking like those initial reports of unlocked devices are inaccurate. It sounds like these devices are still locked to AT&T -- so you're just looking at an off contract pricing scheme. Which is also totally lame.
 
Even if it hasn't happened yet, in Canada the iPhones are unlocked until a provider is chosen. It's just a matter of time.
 
They are still locked and if they have the new software (read: 3.1.3 & bootrom) you won't be able to unlock.

In any case, same deal as 1st gen iPhone. You buy it and no questions asked. Nothin new people, just the old protocol is back.
 
It's pretty clear what Apple is doing here. Something must have obviously happened with either ATT or maybe this is because they are ticked off at Google.

But my take on it is that Apple is still "contractually" selling a locked phone with AT&T so its not "breaking their agreement", but instead, they aren't asking for any verification this time.

With something like this being effective immediately, my guess is they JUST came up with it and decided to implement it now.

I think there is some serious drama happening between Google, Apple and AT&T and Apple is doing whatever they can legally to send a serious message.
 
What's the point? Also since it's going to have the latest firmware it can not be unlocked using the customary jailbreaking methods. Lame.
 
ok then

Apple has been selling contract free phones forever bestbuy sells them as well $599 16GB 3GS $699 32GB 3GS I think you can even get 1 at AT&T contract free for the above prices but it's still with AT&T I fail to see the news here!
 
labman said:
Apple has been selling contract free phones forever bestbuy sells them as well $599 16GB 3GS $699 32GB 3GS I think you can even get 1 at AT&T contract free for the above prices but it's still with AT&T I fail to see the news here!
Click to expand...

I think that is only in Canada.
 
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