Unlocked cellular phones are unlike regular cellular phones. They allow you to switch providers if you so choose, and save you the money from having to purchase another phone. If you think about it, regular cell phones have been taking our money for years.

Ask yourself this question: How many cell phones have you had in your lifetime? Then ask yourself this: How much money have all of your cell phone purchases cost you? The answer is probably not something you like to think about, especially knowing that you could have had an unlocked cellular phone a long time ago. There is no need to worry now, because they are readily available to anyone who wants to purchase one, and you can switch your providers as much as you please.

Here are the three main benefits of having an unlocked cellular phone:

1. Ability to switch carriers whenever you would like. You are not going to have to worry about becoming a slave to one specific carrier. When you get tired of your carrier’s cell phone plans, you can simply switch out the card, and save tons of cash.

2. You can save your data from a previous phone, and put the information inside of your unlocked cellular phone by just switching the card. The hassle is simply not there anymore when you buy an unlocked phone.

3. Unlocked phones are also great for travel. For example, if you are on an overseas trip, you do not have to worry about only being confined to your network’s call area, you can buy a special pre-paid SIM card that will allow you to talk and still get great reception.

As you can see, there are many advantages to purchasing an unlocked cellular phone. There is nothing better than saving money, especially in this day and time. People have literally wasted thousands of dollars on cell phones by having to buy new ones with every switched carrier.

But not anymore, unlocked cellular phones put the control back in your hands. Brand name quality unlocked phones from Motorola, Nokia, Samsung and Sony are just some of many available today. For more information on purchasing and some of the types of unlocked cellular phones available, you can go to: http://www.shopusacyberspace.com

Unlocked Phone FAQ:

Question: Can You Unlock My Blackberry?
I buy trade and sell phones. I need to know the manual steps to unlock blackberry phones for any GSM networks.

Answer: You can get an unlock code, simply call the network provider and provide them the account info. They will send you the unlock code in 5-15 days. Or you may buy the unlock code from third parties.

Question: If I went to a phone shop would they be able to unlock a blackberry phone? From 02 to orange?
As in its an 02 blackberry curve phone but I want to put an orange sim in. Could a phone shop unlock it?

Answer: Yes a phone shop is able to unlock your phone. But you can also unlock your Blackberry from a third party by simply remote unlocking code. This is the simplest and permanent solution to unlock your Blackberry phone from the comfort of your home. After unlocking your blackberry phone you can use any gsm Network world wide.

Question: What do you know about CECT i9+++ TOUCHSCREEN MOBILE PHONE DUAL SIM UNLOCKED?

Answer: I am looking at these phones too. Make sure it has both wifi and java – some do not (minis do not have wifi) . Also make sure it is a true “CECT” phone, some are generic generics. Oi! The CECT phones do not work with iTunes.

Question: I just won a Google Nexus One (unlocked): should I sell it and wait for the Verizon Wireless version instead?
I really like this phone but I’m not happy with T-Mobile’s service in the US because of the intermittently poor reception. The unlocked Google Nexus One I received can only work with T-Mobile’s 3G network (though I know there is an AT&T one now), so I was thinking of getting the Google Nexus One when it comes out on the Verizon Wireless network on contract (which should be sometime during Spring 2010). I am, however, currently on a prepaid T-mobile plan (no data).

Answer: I have a Nexus and a T-Mobile plan. There is nothing wrong with the quality of the 3G signal on T-Mobile’s network. Like any other carrier (yes, including Verizon), the quality of the signal is going to depend on where you are and other factors. I can tell you for a fact that T-Mo is already rolling out their HDSPA network in some areas, and it’s incredible.

There’s also a reason why you never hear Verizon, Sprint or AT&T compare their networks to T-Mobile’s in their ads. Every wonder about that? I travel extensively between Washington DC, New York and Jacksonville, Florida. I get a great 3G signal everywhere I go.

Ask anyone who lives in the New York City area and uses an iPhone on AT&Ts network what their service is like. Biggest city in the world, and their signal quality is abysmal.

The other thing you need to remember is that the plans being offered by the carriers with the Nexus under a contract are kind of limited. I don’t know what Verizon is going to offer (and AT&T is offering no subsidy or contact tie-in with the Nexus for their network). I have a T-Mo no-contract unlimited family plan, and after running the numbers, it’s the cheapest way to go. I already had the plan, so I just dropped the SIM in.

I’d keep it.

Question: Will an unlocked AT&T phone work in Australia?
I am looking at purchasing an Lg Xenon from eBay from someone who says they have moved from the us and have the phone unlocked from at&t but am not sure whether it will work on Telstra pre paid

Answer: If the phone is unlocked then it should work with Telstra Australia, If it does not work then the phone is still locked and you have to unlock by codes. You can get unlock code for Lg Xenon by third party after unlock Lg Xenon you can use any GSM network Sim card around the world

Question: What are unlocking Phones?
My mom is giving me cricKet and I hate all the phones there. Can I get the LG KS360? I don’t think you can unlock an lg phone. So my question is can I unlock the LG KS360 if I have a cricKet company?

Answer: LG KS360 is a GSM phone and are sold unlocked. You can’t use LG KS360 on Cricket (CDMA; no SIM). If you’re planning to use other phones on Cricket, you can try LG Rumor 2 / LG enV / Samsung Moment / Samsung Rogue / Samsung Finesse, etc. Although, you have to get them flashed to Cricket. You have to go for CDMA phones and not GSM phones if you’re going to use them over Cricket.

Question: Can you unlock a us cellular phone?
Is it possible to unlock a us cellular phone and how?

Answer: No. US Celluar is a CDMA network. CDMA phones cannot be unlocked. Some may be able to be flashed to another network.

Question: How do I flash an LG att phone to cricket?
I just bought a brand new “unlocked” LG neon from online with the hopes of flashing it to cricket..I just dont know how to go about doing that!

Answer: You can’t. An unlocked phone is a GSM phone. Cricket is not a GSM network.

There are such features in selected mobile, where you can use two SIM cards instead of one. All you need to do is to buy a cover accommodating two SIM cards. This gives you the advantage of holding pay-as-you-go and a pre-paid SIM cards, for example. This may be useful for your office and personal use. In normal circumstances, you can remove your SIM card from your present handset and carry with you and choose to use it with the line of GSM phones available. If you misplace your SIM card, you will be required to inform your service provider immediately to that effect, and follow the instructions given. You may be liable to pay charges for issuance of a duplicate SIM card.

When you buy a GSM phone, it comes in an unlocked state and it can work with any SIM card from any service provider, provided you are using it for GSM bands. It is a matter of slipping-in that SIM card in your phone, activating it and start using it. But, when you enter into a service contract with a service provider, which stipulates that you should be with this particular service for a definite period of time, a mobile handset is usually offered free with the SIM card, where the handset is given to you in a locked state. This would mean that the phone will not work with any other SIM card than the one given to you. You will need to stay with your service provider till the end of the term and after that the service provider may help you to unlock your phone. There are ofcourse ways to unlock a locked handset, which becomes a violation of the contract that you have signed with your service provider. A locked phone features a SIM lock in reality. In such a handset, you will not be able to use any other SIM card other than the one which has come along with your handset. That is the reason why it is sometimes termed as a SIM locked phone.

Any SIM card may be used with an unlocked GSM phone. For a pre-paid SIM card, you do not need to enter into any contracts and more-over there would not be any bills to pay at the end of the month. For instance, if you are traveling abroad and wish to visit a few countries in your trip, you can buy an International SIM card, for the benefit of saving up-to 80% of your cost in calls. This card will give you the facility of free incoming calls, no matter where it generates from, and outgoing calls at local rates. When you make calls to your home, you do not pay the roaming charges, as you would do if you had carried your regular mobile with you. But in this instance, you have to make sure that you have a quad band GSM mobile phone, in order that you may use the handset effectively when you are abroad. If not, you will need to rent one unlocked quad band GSM phone. To know more about the matter, visit http://www.planetomni.com/RENT_INFO.shtml For SIM cards visit http://www.planetomni.com/FAQ_sim.shtml

Since unlocking a locked phone under contract is not taken to be legal, it is always preferable to buy an unlocked phone from the market and you will have the choice to get your SIM card from the service provider who gives you the best deal. Also, this avoids your expenses that you would incur in getting locked phone and trying to have it unlocked from such vendors offering to do the job for you. There is a pitfall here too in buying an unlocked handset. You should be able to distinguish between a carrier unlocked phone and a factory unlocked one. The main draw-backs of carrier locked phones are -

? Use of pirated software to unlock a locked phone.

? In such phones, you may observe that even if you try to connect with a correct IP address, to your provider’s WAP or GPRS services, the phone may not allow the setting, may not comply with your request or automatically will try to connect to another service provider.

Therefore, it is always a good choice to buy factory unlocked mobile handsets from known vendors. For more details visit http://www.planetomni.com/

When you buy a prepaid SIM card for your unlocked GSM phone, there are a few things that you should remember:

Barring some of the countries, unlocking a locked phone, when under the contract terms, is seen to be a breach of contract. But in countries like Poland, the law says that the service providers are not allowed to word their contracts with the customers, which forbids them to remove the SIM locks in their handsets.

For more details on how to use SIM cards in an unlocked mobile phone, visit www.planetomni.com

Cell phone use overseas. In 99% of the world the local cellular service standard is called GSM. We use this in the states as well. When combined with a SIM CARD (which usually goes under the battery of the phone) the phone is able to communicate and the SIM CARD also holds the telephone number and memory for pre-paid credit. Rates can be extremely low using this system. For example in 99% of all SIM CARDS incoming calls are free and calls to the states can cost a trifle. Such as, from the UK to the USA 7 cents/minute, from Israel 22 cents, from Australia 27 cents. Yes, USA Dollar cents! There are today even prepaid service providers in the USA offering rates of 10 cents per minute to call anywhere in the US to any type of phone. No contracts, no credit card checks, no bills. Pre-paid always means no minimums no contracts, no obligations. You only pay for the calls made. You’ll need an unlocked GSM tri-band or quadband UNLOCKED phone. You can buy factory unlocked phones and sim cards for more than 170 or the 193 countries on earth from http://www.planetomni.com Tel. # 800-514-2984

Sim Card FAQ:

Question: Does a cell phone have to have a sim card in order to work?
I want the boost mobile Motorola I465 Clutch phone. It doesn’t come with a sim card. Do I have to have a sim card in order for the phone to work? I can’t find any info about it on the web.

Answer: Boost is not a GSM network and Boost phones do not have sim cards.

Question: Will a different SIM card change a cell phone to a different carrier?
I have a Motorola Tracfone. Will a SIM card from a different carrier ‘unlock’ this phone and allow it to attach to a new servicer?

Answer: NO, it will not unlock the phone, but if the phone is already unlocked that will work.

Question: About to bring Iphone in to get new sim card. Should I the hide jailbrake?
My sim card went bad got to get a replacement sim card.

Answer: You don’t even need to take the phone in. Just walk into the store get the sim card and walk out. Oh yeah, don’t forget to pay for it, unless they’re giving it to you.

Question: Can I switch my sim card from at&t to an iphone without extra charges?
I have an unlimited data and texting plan on at&t network on my LG xenon. I want to buy a used iphone from ebay, but I was wondering if I could just put my sim card into it and still have the same plan without any extra charges?

Answer: You would have to change your plan to an IPhone data plan which is $30. Be careful when buying “IPhone’s” on ebay. There have been several customers come in and say that they bought an “IPhone” and they send them a fake.

Question: Can I buy a unlocked sprint phone and put in a t-mobile sim card?
I would like to buy my daughter a phone for her birthday. She would like to have the samsung exclaim but I would like to keep her under our family plan. She has mentioned buying an unlocked phone. Is it possible for us to purchase a unlocked Samsung Exclaim and put in a t-mobile sim card?

Answer: No. Sprint phones cannot be unlocked. Only GSM phones can be unlocked and Sprint is not a GSM network. You will have to get a T-Mobile phone or an unlocked GSM phone.

Question: Where are pictures stored in cell phone or the sim card?
I have a Motorola V300 cell phone. I am going to change my SIM card and phone number. I have some pictures in my phone. I don’t know where they are stored, in SIM card or phone memory. If I cahnge my SIM card do I loose my pics or will they still stay in the phone?

Answer: Pictures are stored in the phone. The sim card stores contacts and your phone number. If you want to save those pics, buy a memory card or send them to your email address.

Question: How do you unlock a sim card?
I have an O2 sim card that is on a contract, and my phone just broke. I have an orange phone and I was told I can put my O2 sim in that till I get a new phone, but I have to unlock it first. Anyone know the easiest way to do that?

Answer: Sim cards are not unlockable but it can be cancelled through informing your service provider or government telecommunication company. Its the phone that you unlock. You can use any sim card on that unlocked phone including your original 02 sim. Unlocking your phone doesn’t mean that you have to unlock your sim too to use it with the same phone.

Question: What do you do if a sim card is rejected?
Do you need to buy a new sim card? Because I have a Samsung Propel and I thought the PUK code was some kind of security code and I pressed it and it kept asking for a code but than my sim card got rejected.

Answer: You’ll have to see your phone provider and get them to provide a new sim card for you. If you’ve entered in the PUK wrong three times it burns the simcard; as its a security feature. Your carrier may or may not charge you for a new simcard.

Most consumers think they have to dispose of their cell phones if they change service providers. But that isn’t always the case. An unlocked cellular phone is probably not something most people have heard of, but in reality a phone that can be unlocked can save a consumer a lot of time and hassle.

An unlocked cellular phone is a GMS, or digital, model that enables the transferring of the SIM, or subscriber information module, into it. These phones are not necessarily readily available in the United States, but they can be found through such companies as T-Mobile, Cingular, AT&T and some retailers that sell phones.

Anyone with a GMS type phone can have it turned into an unlocked cellular phone, enabling it to pick up new SIM information for service and billing. The unlocking process will either be done from the start, or codes can be obtained that will enable the phone to accept new information and function correctly.

The advantages of an unlocked cellular phone can be fantastic for those who are attached to their phone models. They include:

Freedom: An unlocked cellular phone gives customers an ability to use the phone they want, rather than a phone a service provider touts. This can save in upfront fees during a purchase of new service.

Preference: If a customer has an unlocked cellular phone they really like, a switch in service doesn’t mean having to give up that model. This is great for those who are very comfortable with their model phone and its perks.

Information saving: Many people nowadays use their cell phones as portable telephone books and with some offering PDA abilities, the information stored on them is vital to carry on with a new contract. When an unlocked cellular phone is used, there’s no reason to be concerned about losing the information during a new service contract or having to spend hours transferring the data.

Figuring out the ins and outs of an unlocked cellular phone can be a little tricky, but there are even some companies out there that can help talk a customer through the process. Some cell phone makers will even provide the codes necessary to unlock a phone that’s presently locked. As long as the phone is owned by the consumer, and not the service provider, the process is legal.

Changing cell phones can be a real problem for some people. When a GMS phone is used, this problem can be eliminated. An unlocked cellular phone gives consumers the freedoms to have the phones they want and the service plans they want, as well.

For more information on unlocked cellular phones try visiting http://www.cellphonesinfosite.com, a website that specializes in providing advice, tips and resources on cellphones such as the trendy pink cellular phone that you can use to help organize a more budget friendly purchase.

Unlocked Phones FAQ:

Question: How will buying and using an unlocked phone affect my AT&T contract?
As of today I’m eligible for a phone upgrade through at&t, but I really don’t like any of the phones that they’re letting me upgrade to, so I’m thinking about buying an unlocked one.

Answer: This is one of the things I love about AT&T, you only have to renew your contract if your buying a new phone at the two year agreement plan. If you provide your own phone you do not need to renew, you just pay your monthly fees, you can even change plans and not renew.

Question: How do I get a plan for a foreign, unlocked phone?
If I buy the Sony Ericsson W601i Walkman phone (which is a foreign phone and is “unlocked” and has “no US warranty”) how would I be able to get a phone plan for it? And am I limited to certain phone companies…like can I use Tmobile or Verizon?

Answer: Yes, you can get plans without buying a phone (if you already possess one). And yes, your unlocked phone (which requires a SIM) is limited to GSM Carriers such as T- Mobile or AT&T. Verizon does not use SIM Cards, and therefore not compatible with your phone.

Question: I have a red blackberry 8100 phone right now that is broken. I have heard about buying unlocked phones. What I am wondering is could I buy an iphone unlocked put my sim card in and still only pay my blackberry fee? Same thing with a blackberry bold? Will I pay a new bill or the same one? And what is the procedure for switching?

Answer: Get and unlocked phone and swap out the sim. Sim cards will hold your info and such. Your plan and carrier are tied to your sim card. Just swap out the sims and thats it. If you want to get an iPhone unlocked then you can buy it without a contract (for a ridiculous price) from an AT&T or Apple store. It won’t be unlocked it will just be without a contract. You can unlock it if you have the OS 3.0 update with ultrasn0w (Google it). If you are in the US, and want to use it with T-Mobile, don’t expect to get 3G (faster internet).

Question: Where do I get service on a brand new Unlocked Phone?
I would prefer to have Alltel, and on their website they claim to be a CDMA carrier. What does this mean? Will I be able to use a brand new unlocked phone on their network? If not, what service carriers will I be able to use?

Answer: Unlocked means it will work with any GSM carrier, NOT CDMA. GSM company’s like AT&T that use sim cards. Sim cards will work in an unlocked GSM phone.

Question: If I put my SIM card in an unlocked phone will I still have my phone# and all of my contacts?

Answer: Yes, you’ll have everything that’s on your SIM card.

Question: How do I activate my T-mobile SIM card with my unlocked phone?
I just got an unlocked phone in Europe and I want to use it with T-mobile. I just heard that I could buy a SIM card on Ebay or I think I could just walk into a T-mobile store, purchase a free phone with a SIM card and use that SIM card in my unlocked phone. But than how do I activate it with T-mobile? Can you walk me through the process.

Answer: Once you have a T-mobile phone in your possession, you can buy a sim card for it. You still need a T-mobile plan in order to be able to use it. Just call T-mobile with the sim number, they will activate it.

Question: Where can I find a cheap unlocked phone for cingular?
I lost my phone and it has only been the 1st year of my 2 year contract. Cingular (now the new at&t) said that the cheapest phone they have for my situation is $169!

Answer: I would recommend looking on ebay. If you want an unlocked one, just look for any unlocked GSM phone.

Question: Can you get in trouble with your carrier for using an unlocked phone?
I am traveling to Guatemala and I want to be able to use my phone there. I have t-mobile, and I have an unlocked iphone.

Answer: No, you cannot get in trouble with T Mobile for using an unlocked phone. When you signed a contract with them, you basically stated that you accepted the equipment you purchased and you would not be able to upgrade to new equipment until whatever date is stated in the contract. There is nothing in any wireless contract which prohibits the use of an alternate cellular device.

If you are a cell phone lover, chances are you are aggravated with at least one aspect of your cell phone plan. Of course we all wish something about it was better – whether it be the sound quality, roaming charges, or the amount of service we get. But what if we had the opportunity to unlock our mobile phones? We have all wanted to switch services but keep our old beloved phone. Luckily, technology has now given us the means to do so. Better yet, it’s legal!

Mobile phone unlocking is a great way for people to get the most from their cell phones. We have all tried out a service that just doesn’t provide us with enough features, yet we haven’t wanted to go through the hassle of switching phones. Fortunately, mobile phone unlocking is extremely easy and legal! Although most cell phone companies want you to believe that they put cell phone locks on their devices, it is actually false. Of course no company wants you to leave! Every bright business wants to not only keep you as a customer, but keep your monthly cash that you send to them so frequently. Therefore, you have every right and ability to unlock your phone if needed. However, some companies will try to lock it permanently, so it was crucial to stay alert.

Another benefit to mobile phone unlocking is that it could save you a lot of money in the long run. For instance, if you were an avid traveler and wanted to save money on international phone rates, you could change your service. If you kept the same service, you would be charged for roaming fees, thus leaving you with an unnecessary bill. By unlocking your cell phone, you could spend more money on other features!

The greatest part about mobile phone unlocking is that is simple to access! Surprisingly, there are cell phone unlock codes you can use to do this procedure. Many websites online offer such codes that usually are quite affordable, ranging from $5-$10. However, some phones may need more than a cell phone unlock code. For instance, if you have a certain Motorola model, a data plug may have to be used to connect to a programming unit. This will reprogram your phone and allow you to pick another service.

Although mobile phone unlocking is a great way for people to switch services, not all phones can be unlocked. The only phone companies that have this feature are AT&T, Cingular, and T-Mobile. If you are not using a GSM company, chances are your phone has no ability to unlock. Nevertheless, if you have the opportunity to unlock your mobile phone, and you want to change services, then it is a wonderful opportunity. We now have the freedom to do what we want, when we want it. Cell phone companies are no longer holding us with these plans that cannot be changed. We finally have realized the secret and for that reason, cell phone unlock codes will always be our favorite feature.

Natalie Aranda writes on culture and technology. The greatest part about mobile phone unlocking is that is simple to access! Surprisingly, there are cell phone unlock codes you can use to do this procedure. For instance, if you have a certain Motorola model, a data plug may have to be used to connect to a programming unit. This will reprogram your phone and allow you to pick another service.

Unlocked Phone FAQ:

Question: What do I need to make an unlocked phone work?
I don’t really know much about unlocked phones. Assuming I currently have absolutely no phone service, what steps would I have to take after buying this phone to have full service? What kind of plan would I have to get? Somebody told me that unlocked phones already have free talk, so you only need to get a data plan.

Answer: “Someone” is wrong. You need voice service and a text plan if you plan to text. Go visit AT&T and T-Mobile to see what they offer. T-Mobile generally has less expensive plans but service can be spotty. If you sign a contract, you will probably get a free phone that you can sell. However, you can go month to month if you choose.

Question: Can I use an unlocked phone on my current t-mobile plan?
I currently have a plan on t-mobile with a blackberry with unlimited minutes and text messaging. But I want to get an unlocked phone “XPERIA”. Could I just pop out the sim card in my blackberry and just put it in the xperia? Would I still get the unlimited minutes/messaging on the xperia?

Answer: Yes you can put your sim in an unlocked “XPERIA” & yes you will still get your unlimited minutes etc as all the info on your account is on your sim card not on the phone.

Question: Does buying an unlocked phone effect how my phone works?

Answer: Generally, no. If your provider includes software on their locked phones (like an email reader or IM client) you may lose those, but other than that you should be fine.

If you are having issues connecting to the internet (WAP) or texting, its usually because you have wrong settings in your phone for the provider you are using. Technical support from your cellular provider should be able to remedy that.

Question: Can you lock a phone after its been unlocked?
I have an unlocked phone made for t-mobile that I used when I had cingular but now I’m with T-mobile and I was just wondering if I can lock it again so I will be able to send picture texts and stuff.

Answer: When they unlocked your phone did they just remove the network lock and leave the t-mobile branded software in the phone? If so you should still be able to see the tzone icon and you would be able to connect on the internet send pics etc.
If the t-zone and all other t-mobile branding of your phone is gone you will need to reflash the phone with a t-mobile monsterpack of software for your phone.

Question: Do carriers care if you have an unlocked phone?
I want to contact fido support but I have an unlocked phone, and I’m afraid they’ll refuse service to me or something because I bought an unlocked phone. Do they care at all?

Answer: I know at T-Mobile we don’t. I mean, some things we can’t help with because we don’t know about that phone’s specifics, or because it’s not covered under warranty, but we still try to help. Unless they have a rule specifically forbidding the use of other phones, I doubt they’ll care.

I can see when my customers are using non-T-Mobile phones, there’s a tool to see what phone models they’ve used. I don’t know if all carriers have a tool like that.

Question: Does any sim card work in an unlocked phone?
My phone company doesn’t have any phones with a qwerty keyboard, and I’m locked in with that company for at least 2 years, so i was thinking of buying an unlocked phone on ebay (like a Samsung U740 or an LG rumour) and just putting my SIM chip in – would that work?

Answer: That’s what they say. When you get an unlocked phone, it’s supposed to work with any SIM.

Question: Will my cellular one SIM card work on a unlocked phone?
I wanted to know if my Cellular one SIM card will work on a unlocked blackberry pearl phone, I tried it but when I get a call I can hear the other person but they cant hear me?? Should I get a T-mobile sim card?

Answer: It should still work, maybe try a tmobile sim card in the phone and see if it works if not call cellular one and tell them you are having a problem with people not hearing you. Sometimes it can be a problem with the sim card.

Question: Does a SIM card from other phone work in an unlocked phone?
I have an unlocked motorola L6 phone and I’m planning to buy a cheap GoPhone (AT&T) and put that SIM card into my unlocked phone. would that work?

Answer: Any SIM will work with an unlocked phone.

The PDA, or Personal Digital Assistant, is a coined name give to handheld computers. Many of these PDA devices are being combined with cell phones and sold as single units. The PDA/cell phone combines all of the characteristics of a mini-computer with a state of the art GSM cell phone to give you the best of both worlds in the palm of your hand. Unfortunately, the PDA cell phones also come with a common and controversial problem common to GSM phones. The cell phone service provider often locks the cell phone with an internal blocking program that does not allow a SIM card from another service provider to be used. This prevents the owner of the phone from exercising his free choice to change providers or to purchase pre-paid SIM cards for use in traveling. This especially restricts the use of your phone when traveling in another country.

The good news is that the PDA cell phone can be easily unlocked to allow the use of alternate SIM cards. It is going to be necessary to engage the services of a cell phone unlock service to do this correctly. The unlock service can be located on the Internet. They will be able to assist in the unlock process in two different ways. The first is to send you via email a software program that can perform the unlock process. You will need the USB cable that connects your PDA cell phone to your personal computer and is usually provided when the cell phone is purchased. You will also need the software CD that was provided with the PDA phone. How to unlock a cell phone if you do not have this equipment is not a major problem. The unlock service provider will be able to perform the unlock for you if you send the phone directly to them.

It is interesting that most unlock services will actually charge less to physically unlock the phone and send it back to you than they will charge for the email containing the code. This is because they must pay a royalty fee every time they send a code and this cost is passed on to you. The only advantage to doing the unlock your self is that it can be done quicker if you do not have to send the phone in to the unlock service. The unlock service does not need your SIM card to perform the unlocking procedure. You can remove the SIM card and use it in a back up cell phone until your unit is returned.

Natalie Aranda writes about technology. The cell phone service provider often locks the cell phone with an internal blocking program that does not allow a SIM card from another service provider to be used though many consumers prefer unlocked cell phones. This prevents the owner of the phone from exercising his free choice to change providers or to purchase pre-paid SIM cards for use in traveling. The good news is that the PDA cell phone can be easily unlocked to allow the use of alternate SIM cards. It is going to be necessary to engage the services of a cell phone unlock service to do this correctly.

Unlocked Phone FAQ:

Question: What are my chances with an unlocked phone?
I’m looking for a phone on ebay but I keep seeing one’s that say unlocked. Should I get an unlocked one or are they bad?

Answer: There’s absolutely nothing wrong with getting an unlocked phone. They can accommodate any carrier that requires a sim card to use their service. You can even set up features like the internet on them too.

Question: How do you get Internet on an Unlocked phone?
I want to send pics and check email and stuff, how do I get internet on my unlocked phone?

Answer: Make sure that it has the correct bands for data. Edge and gprs should all be quadband anyways, but 3g should be 2100 if you live in europe and 850/1900 in the us. Other than that, you must order a data plan from your provider.

Question: Can an unlocked phone become a prepaid phone?
I have an unlocked AT&T Blackberry Pearl and was wondering if there is anyway I could make it a prepaid phone.

Answer: I know that Cricket Communication will do it but I am not sure about any other company.

Question: How do I connect a bluetooth headset to a unlocked phone?
I have a Samsung SCH-V890 and I want to connect to it a Bluetooth which is Motorola. The phone is for Cingular and I unlocked it for T-Mobile. Does that have to do with any Bluetooth connecting to it? The reason being is that I can connect my phone to other phones but just not to a headset.

Answer: It shouldn’t matter. It sounds like your phone is saving the bluetooth connections that your making. You might need to clear out those saved connects to make room for the new headset.

Question: How do I use an unlocked phone I bought on ebay?
I bought a motorola a630 off of ebay that is unlocked. When I received the phone, it says t-mobile on it but I was assured that it would work with other companies, including cingular. However, when I put my sim card in, I can send and receive text messages but I can not make or receive phone calls. What should I do?

Answer: Call cingular and ask them to register your phone. Get the IMEI from the device. Very easy … enter *#06# and you will get a 15 digit number. Give it to them and they will add that to your profile and it should be fine.

Also, if your “new” cell phone is not capable of 911, no company will register it and allow it onto the network. All older phones without 911 capability are being gradually phased off the system as people replace them.

Question: Can I use an unlocked phone with a prepaid service from a major carrier?
I do not like the limited choices that T-mobile gives with its prepaid plans. Can I choose an unlocked phone and use T-Mobile’s pay-as-you go plan?

Answer: Yes you sure can! You can use any phone you wish as long as it is unlocked!
Just put your T-mobile sim card in any T-mobile branded phone, or in any unlocked cell phone and it will work fine!
You may have to have T-mobile send you their “wap” setting if you plan on using the internet on a phone that isn’t theirs, but they will send it to you without a hassle…just call them up, give them your make and model of your phone, and they send it via text message…that’s it!

Question: Can I buy an unlocked phone and use it in a different country?
I’m not quite sure how this stuff works, but if I were to buy an unlocked phone here in Canada would I be able to use it in New Zealand… by getting a sim card there or something? Or what is the best thing for me to do?

Answer: Yes, unlocking a phone will allow you to use it with a SIM card from another provider, even in another country. There are a couple of things to check on when you choose the phone, beyond being unlocked.

One is to make sure you’re buying a phone that actually takes SIM cards. In Canada, Rogers does use SIM cards, but Bell Mobility and Telus do not, for example.

Another is to make sure the phone can access the same frequency bands used by the provider in the other country. GSM 1900 is one most commonly used in North America, though many phones can access 3 or all 4 of the frequency bands. I think you’d likely want 900 or 1800 for New Zealand. If you make sure you’re getting “quad-band” then you’re covered for sure.

Question: If I buy an unlocked blackberry phone from a different carrier than mine, will the t-mobile data plan still work with the unlocked phone?

Answer: It should work without a problem. However, if you happen to buy a phone with a PIN (blackberry data network identification for each phone) that is not working, you’re out of luck.

This was especially a problem with preproduction blackberry bolds that people were selling. Research in Motion (RIM) removed the pins from their networks and so people who bought the preproductions ended up losing all access to data.

Make sure you buy from someone who is reliable, otherwise your data services may not work.

If a new cell phone purchase is in your future, you might consider purchasing an unlocked cell phone that you have been hearing about.

Three primary reasons exist for wanting to have an unlocked phone instead of a locked one. Many cell phones contain a small card called a SIM card. The phone is activated by the card, which lets it work as a certain number. Your address book contacts are also able to be kept on a SIM card. Wherever the SIM card goes, the phone service goes as well. Your service will not be affected if you take your existing SIM card and install it in the new unlocked phone you just purchased.

Why should you have an unlocked cell phone? If you go overseas you will need an unlocked cell phone. There are prepaid SIM cards available that will work in whatever country you are visiting. It is more reliable and less expensive than making calls from out of the country with your own cell phone carrier.

In certain instances, a free phone is offered when you enroll in a service plan and accept a contract. Once your contract expires, you will not be able to use your current phone since it is locked. With an unlocked cell phone, it is possible to change cell phone providers while keeping your phone. All you need to do is get a new SIM card from the provider and then you should have no problems with your phone. An unlocked cell phone is helpful when you have multiple phones. One example is that if you have a phone with a camera, and one that does not – you can always switch SIM cards to be able to use the phone that you need for the time. You can still get your calls on your spouse’s phone. This will also apply to cases where your personal phone and business phone use a different cell phone provider. The SIM card can easily be swapped out to be used in a phone different from the one you usually use.

Another nice thing about purchasing a cell phone that is unlocked is that it can be given away or sold if you no longer need it. If your existing phone is still in good condition but you want to upgrade it, you won’t need to just toss it in the trash. You can give your unlocked phone to your spouse or children. Try selling it and using the money for a new unlocked phone. An unlocked phone carries many benefits for the present and the future.

Unlocked Cell Phones FAQ

Question: Unlocked Phones?
Where can you go to find some cheap unlocked cell phones in the $0-70 dollar range please?

Answer: Try ebay many are listed as unlocked

Question: What does unlocked mean in reference to phones on ebay?
Im looking into buying a Sidekick off ebay and I am uncertain what unlocked means, I have cingular and there are a few phones that are compatible with cingular but there are also alot of unlocked phones. Does unlocked mean that they are compatible with different networks? If you know I would like to know as soon as possible…

Answer: What are Unlocked GSM Phones? Not network specific.
Unlocked GSM phones are either a) phones which are directly from the manufacturer which were never locked, or b) phones from a carrier which have been modified to openly work on any network.

Question: How do unlocked phones work? and a metro question?
Ok what does having an unlocked phone mean?
and what verizon/ or cingular phones are avilable to use for metro? how would i do that?
Help please?

Answer: You can only those phones that use simcards (GSM) such as phones from AT&T / Cingular or T-Mobile. Verizon is a CDMA carrier and their phones don’t use simcards so you can’t unlock those phones. AND even if the phone is GSM and is unlocked you still can’t use it with Metro because metro is a CDMA carrier. Unlocked phones only work with either T-Mobile or AT&T. You can however “Flash” a CDMA phone over to Metro and use it with them but before flashing a CDMA phone contact Metro about this and ask them if they will agree to active the phone. You can Flash phones from carriers such as Sprint, Verizon, Alltel or Cricket. Hope this helps, i know it’s a bit confusing but i made it as clear as possible.

Question: Why do my unlocked phones work with only certain providers?
i have 2 unlocked phones. 1 is a t-mobile mda and the other is a nokia 6820 and they are both unlocked. but the problem is they only work on certain companys like cingular and tmobile. and they dont work on sprint why is this

Answer: Yes. Some are that way.

Question: What carriers have unlocked phones that are compatible with Cingular?
I was wondering which networks I could buy phones from without having a contract. I would buy the phones unlocked.

Answer: T-Mobile is the only other carrier that currently uses the GSM standard.

Question: Does anyone know what unlocked phones you can buy in India?
Hey,
Im going to India this summer and I usualy pick up an unlocked phone. Does anyone know what good phones they have now?

Answer: Hey. I got my sony ericsson W580i from Pakistan and it is awesome… hope it helped

Question: Can phones be unlocked to use on the 3 network?
Seems like there is something different about 3 in the UK so that unlocked phones don’t work with them. Is this true?

Answer: nope….once unlocked it can work on any network maybe ur phone is not unlocked properly

Question: Do unlocked phones work flawlessly with any GSM provider?
Technically they should as long as they have the appropriate frequencies, but I have heard from some people that they could be a little sluggish. Is that true?

I really do not like the phones of any of the carriers in the market and was thinking of just buying an unlocked phone.

Answer: An unlocked phone will work as good as a locked phone. Most GSM phones are unlocked in Europe and Asia and they work flawlessly.