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MMakoto

macrumors member
Original poster
Mar 17, 2011
60
3
i've read that buying directly from apple.com they are unlocked regardless if we choose the unlocked or carrier variants (att, vz, tmo, s), but i've also read that if we buy from the carrier stores they are locked to their network? my readings has mixed results, can somebody please help clarify? thanks.
 
Apple.com - if you pay full price, it’s unlocked regardless of carrier. If you choose a carrier payment plan, it could be locked depending on the carrier.

Carrier store - almost always locked, but you can usually request an unlock if it’s paid in full. You may need to have service for a minimum amount of time first. Depends on the carrier’s specific policy.
 
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Apple.com - if you pay full price, it’s unlocked regardless of carrier. If you choose a carrier payment plan, it could be locked depending on the carrier.

Carrier store - almost always locked, but you can usually request an unlock if it’s paid in full. You may need to have service for a minimum amount of time first. Depends on the carrier’s specific policy.
thanks, that makes perfect sense.
 
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