Following a class action lawsuit, AT&T has agreed to unlock all phones that they supply to customers, except Apple’s iPhone.
Customers who have purchased a prepaid handset will get their handset unlocked immediately on confirmation of proof of purchase, whilst customers who have postpaid will get their handsets unlocked after ninety days of active service.
If you have purchased a handset which AT&T are the exclusive carrier, then you will have to wait at least 10 months, at this point you can then request that AT&T unlock your handset, this applies to the iPhone which is currently exclusive to AT&T.
(1) Customers with postpaid accounts who have completed a minimum of 90 days of active service and are in good standing and current in their payments.
(2) Customers with prepaid accounts who have provided a detailed receipt or other proof of purchase of the handset.
(3) Customers who own handsets for which AT&T has an exclusive sales arrangement with a manufacturer of less than 10 months will have to wait until the 10-month period expires before they can receive an unlocking code.
Implications for iPhone Users
This could change in the near future for iPhone owners with AT&T, if Apple releases the device on other mobile carriers like Verizon then AT&T would have to unlock existing customers’ iPhones earlier. The exclusivity agreement between AT&T and Apple has been a significant point of contention for many users who feel restricted by the inability to switch carriers freely. This exclusivity has historically limited the flexibility of iPhone users, compelling them to stay with AT&T even if they were dissatisfied with the service.
Unlocking a phone allows users to insert SIM cards from other carriers, providing the freedom to switch networks and potentially save on costs or gain better service coverage. For international travelers, an unlocked phone can be particularly beneficial as it allows the use of local SIM cards, avoiding expensive roaming charges.
Broader Impact on the Mobile Industry
The decision by AT&T to unlock all phones except the iPhone could set a precedent in the mobile industry. Other carriers might follow suit, leading to a more competitive market where consumers have greater control over their devices. This move could also pressure Apple to reconsider its exclusivity agreements with carriers, potentially leading to more unlocked iPhones in the future.
Moreover, this development highlights the growing consumer demand for unlocked devices. As more people become aware of the benefits of having an unlocked phone, the pressure on carriers to provide this option increases. This shift could lead to a broader industry trend where locked phones become a thing of the past, giving consumers more freedom and flexibility.
For example, in countries like India and many parts of Europe, unlocked phones are the norm. Consumers in these regions enjoy the ability to switch carriers with ease, often leading to better deals and improved service. If the U.S. market moves in this direction, it could result in a more dynamic and consumer-friendly mobile industry.
In conclusion, while AT&T’s decision to unlock all phones except the iPhone may seem like a small step, it has significant implications for consumers and the broader mobile industry. It represents a shift towards greater consumer empowerment and could pave the way for more unlocked devices in the future. As the market evolves, it will be interesting to see how other carriers and manufacturers respond to this growing demand for unlocked phones.
via Slash Gear
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