What the heck IS an unlocked cell phone? Why would you possibly want one and where would you get one? We cover those issues plus a few more in this article!
Hello? It's for You
The hunt for no contract cell phones for sale usually means that buyers are actually looking to purchase unlocked used cell phones. Typically, when a mobile phone is purchased the owner signs up with a new wireless carriers plan and receives a reduced rate or a free phone with the contract. These phones are what are referred to as 'locked' since it can't be used on another carriers network.
Even if the phone becomes deactivated whenever it is placed back into service, or reactivated, it remains on that specific carriers network. Should the subscriber have a need or desire to switch to another carrier then, unfortunately, they would need to also change the mobile phone as well. So, the need for an 'unlocked' phone arises. GSM phones are most popular to be unlocked as they can be used with any GSM SIM card even overseas. CDMA can also be unlocked, but, only to be used on another CDMA network.
One ringy, dingy...
Obviously, it works to the advantage of the wireless carriers to have their customers purchase locked cell phones as this is their way of keeping the customers 'locked' into their wireless service. Which is the opposite of what many users would like to do, namely keep their phones, but, have the option to switch carriers at any time. Thus the advantage of unlocked used cell phones.
Purchasing a GSM unlocked used cell phone means you just have to change the GSM SIM card in order to change the carrier service. Then the mobile phone would instantly access the new network service. CDMA mobile users can get unlocked phones, but, don't usually do it because they specifically wanted the network they chose. Places that have no contract cell phones for sale will typically offer both CDMA and GSM from providers such as Verizon Cell Phones, Boost Mobile, Alltel, Sprint, Nextel, AT&T / Cingular, T-Mobile, Ntelos, Cricket and Others.
Hello, Moto!
The greatest benefit to the unlocked mobile phone is NO CONTRACT and you actually own the phone rather than 'leasing' it. And the companies that do have no contract cell phones for sale are providing a great service to their customers. Among the brands of unlocked used cell phones available are Audiovox, Apple, Dash, Bluetooth, HTC/MDA, I-mate, LG InfoComm, iPhone, Nokia, Motorola, RIM BlackBerry, Palm/Treo, Pantech, Panasonic, SideKick, Samsung and Siemens.
So, there you have it. The what and why of unlocked used cell phones as well as who has the no contract cell phones for sale. Hope this cleared up a few things. If you need more information see my bio box below.
