Purchasing a new phone & unlocking??

[Minuteman3]

I have a client who would like to get an iPhone. They are already AT&T customers and plan to stay that way. They have no need for "jail breaking" to install 3rd party apps.

But ....

They are planning a fairly lengthy trip to Africa and would like to be able to use a local SIM vs roaming with AT&T. No kidding!!

I explained about the whole 3.1 and can't unlock scenario.

But, I was wondering ... if they purchased the now "base" iPhone 3G for $99, (not a 3GS) which would no doubt come with 3.1 on it, could that be downgraded and then unlocked?

If it can ... I am familiar with the process. But, I don't want to advise them to buy something and then find out it's not a workable solution for them.

Thanks in advance.

Ken

 

[darngooddesign]

The current 3Gs are not unlockable. Its better they buy a used, unlocked 3G phone.

 

[Moi un Mouton]

To answer your question, if you buy a 3G with 3.1, then no, it has a baseband that cannot be unlocked at the moment.

If you can get one on older firmware, you will be able to unlock it with ultrasn0w.

 

[Minuteman3]

Darn, I was hoping to be able to recommend a "new" one, with a warranty, etc.

Sure wish AT&T/Apple were not such jerks about "unlocking" your device to use overseas!!

Thanks for the information.

Ken

(iPhone 3G on T-Mo!!)