O2’s chief executive Matthew Key has confirmed that O2 will offer an unlocking service for the Apple iPhone. Customers whose contracts are up will be able to have their iPhone unlocked for free, whereas pay-as-you-go customers will have to cough up a fee of £14.97 and will be able to unlock their iPhone after 12 months.
“There is absolutely no truth in that rumour. Once the iPhone becomes available on other UK networks, we will allow O2 customers to unlock their iPhones, although of course they will still need to honour any outstanding contract period they have. At the end of their contract period, they are entirely free to move to another operator – though naturally we hope they won’t want to!”
I have just spoken to O2, and they have confirmed that the unlocking service will be available from tomorrow, the 10th of November.
Unlocking Your iPhone: What You Need to Know
If you want to unlock your iPhone with O2 to use on any mobile network, your existing contract will have to be up, or you will have to pay the remainder of your existing contract. This move by O2 is significant as it provides more flexibility and freedom for iPhone users who may want to switch to another network without being tied down by their current contract.
For pay-as-you-go customers, the process is slightly different. They will need to wait for a period of 12 months before they can unlock their iPhone, and there will be a fee of £14.97. This fee is relatively modest compared to the benefits of being able to use the iPhone on any network of their choice.
Why Unlocking Your iPhone Matters
Unlocking your iPhone can be particularly beneficial if you travel frequently. An unlocked iPhone allows you to use local SIM cards in different countries, which can save you a significant amount of money on roaming charges. Additionally, an unlocked iPhone can be more attractive when it comes to resale value, as potential buyers are not limited to a specific network.
Moreover, the ability to switch networks can be advantageous if you find a better deal or if another network offers better coverage in your area. This flexibility ensures that you are not stuck with a network that may not meet your needs.
O2’s decision to offer an unlocking service comes at a time when the iPhone is becoming available on other UK networks. This move is likely a strategic one to retain customer loyalty while also providing a service that meets the evolving needs of their customers.
“At the end of their contract period, they are entirely free to move to another operator – though naturally we hope they won’t want to!”
This statement from O2’s chief executive highlights the company’s hope that customers will choose to stay with O2 even after their contracts have ended. By offering the unlocking service, O2 is providing a valuable option for customers, which could enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.
In conclusion, O2’s new unlocking service for the iPhone is a welcome development for many users. Whether you are a contract customer nearing the end of your term or a pay-as-you-go user willing to wait 12 months, the ability to unlock your iPhone opens up a world of possibilities. From avoiding roaming charges to finding better network deals, the benefits are clear.
via Pocket Lint
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