Recently, there has been a lot of talk about unlocked phones, so what does it mean when a cell phone is unlocked? You may be surprised, but unlocked phones can be very practical for certain users. Are you someone who would benefit from one? Keep reading for the details you need to know to help you decide.
What Is an Unlocked Phone?
Usually when you purchase a phone, it is “locked” to a specific mobile carrier. Some carriers offer unlocked versions of their phones, or you can unlock the phone yourself. Unlocking a phone typically involves entering a specific code to enable you to swap out the SIM card, or completely reprogramming the phone’s software.
So, say you want to switch service providers. With a locked phone you can’t take your phone from your current provider to a different provider and say “hey, I want your network on my phone.” You want a new network? You’ll have to buy a new phone.
But….with an unlocked phone, you can! Unlocking a phone enables you to use it with different mobile carriers. If it’s unlocked and compatible, all you have to do is purchase a plan. Some carriers even offer unlocked versions of their models up front.
Should I Unlock My Phone?
Based on your needs, an unlocked phone can be very convenient. If you plan on switching providers, unlocking your phone after fulfilling your contract obligations can save you a good deal of money in the process—no new phone costs!
Unlocking your phone can also give you more phone choices when switching carriers. With an unlocked phone, you are not restricted by a specific carrier’s phone selection. If you have a phone with compatible technology (and it’s unlocked), you can use it with the new service.
Also, unlocked phones are incredibly useful for travel abroad. If your service provider doesn’t offer coverage where you’re traveling, you are probably subject to cringe-worthy roaming charges. With an unlocked phone, you can purchase a SIM card locally, have a local number, and avoid these charges.
Another great benefit with an unlocked phone is that you can suffer fewer consequences if you happen to lose one. While losing a phone is never a pleasant experience, losing a phone on contract is even more painful than if it happens with an unlocked one. Termination fees of a contracted phone are expensive, especially if you lose a device early into the contract. With an unlocked cell phone, however, all you have to do is purchase a new phone, and the problem is solved.
Do you have questions about unlocked cell phones? Our team of experts at North Georgia Cell Phone Repair can answer your questions. Call 770-569-2002 to get the answer to your question, “what does it mean when a cell phone is unlocked?” We can fix that phone!
