Is it possible to unlock new 3G? - European use

[hack-a-shack]

Hi

I am looking to stick it to *AT&T* by purchasing an iPhone in the U.S., unlocking it, and then using European SIM cards while I am traveling in Europe. I would appreciate any advice as to the feasibility of this.

1. One major question is can I buy a new iPhone 3G or 3GS (without contract) and know for sure that it is unlockable? Do bootrom and baseband updates render only the newer 3GS "locked" or would a new 3G also be "locked"?

2. European users: Is it possible to purchase prepaid sim cards in each country and still have full iPhone functionality, or would it be best to sign up for a single carrier in England or Germany (etc...), and stick with them throughout the trip? Are international rates for European carriers applied differently throughout the EU? I am probably going to be in Europe for three to four months, traveling broadly.

3. American users: How costly is operating in Europe with AT&T? I have heard horror stories of enormous bills. Does neutering the phone (i.e. no internet connection other than free Wifi) present a problem? Are international phone rates horrific? I am planning on being abroad for six months and trying to come up with the best way to stay connected. Any help much appreciated.

 

[dhlizard]

Hi

I am looking to stick it Steve by purchasing an iPhone....

If you purchase an Apple iPhone how does that "stick it (to) Steve" ?

He doesn't care where you buy it or where you use it, just that you buy one !

Now the European official carriers might care...a little maybe ?

 

[Applejuiced]

Yes, the only thing you'd be sticking to Steve is more money in his bank account
But to answer the questions.

1. If you buy a 3G or 3GS chances are it will have the latest firmware 3.1.3 and thus making it unlockable at the moment.
If you're lucky you might get one with 3.1.2 but odds are getting slimmer by the day.

2. Yes you can buy prepaid sims from any country you want and use them. An unlocked iphone will work with any of them. If you want data and texts that can be included in packages you can purchase from wireless providers.

3. Yes, international rates are expensive if you stick with AT&T and you roam thru different carriers internationally. You will never know what you'll get when you come back home.

 

[hack-a-shack]

Ok Ok, sticking it to AT&T

Haha, I agree, I am not sticking anything to Steve, except money in the bank. I am sticking it to AT&T though, who deserves a good sticking.

Thanks, Applejuiced. That definitely helps.

Should I look into buying a used 3.1.2- iPhone or maybe a new 2G to make sure it is unlockable?