Pros vs. Cons of an Unlocked 6 Plus

[2ndAmendNut]

I have decided to treat myself to a 6 Plus. The problem is I still have another 12 months on my current VZN contract so I'm paying full price. We have been talking about moving over to another carrier at the end of this contract so I was thinking of getting an unlocked phone.

So what are the pros and cons of an unlocked phone?

 

[vjh425]

The Verizon iPhone 6 Plus is GSM unlocked so you can get the Verizon model and switch with that phone later.

 

[21stNow]

The factory unlocked version comes with some additional LTE bands that may be helpful if you travel to certain specific countries. The unlocked model may also have a slightly higher resale value because of that.

If you don't travel or sell your phones, then there is no added value for you to get the factory unlocked version versus the Verizon Wireless version, which is also unlocked as vjh425 said.

 

[2ndAmendNut]

Thanks so much for the response. I'm curious, what does it take to connect an unlocked phone to a cellular service?

 

[anaphora68]

You take a SIM card and put it in the phone. Everything should be automatic from there, provided the phone works on the same GSM bands.

 

[kch50428]

what does it take to connect an unlocked phone to a cellular service?

Install a SIM that's been activated by the carrier of your choice... and if activating a Verizon device on Verizon... the MEID will need to be put on your number on your account for legacy CDMA support...

 

[2ndAmendNut]

That's it? I Assume the Apple Store will have SIM cards for whichever carrier I choose?

 

[That70sGAdawg]

For those on AT&T not yet eligible for an "upgrade"- Don't buy under the NEXT program unless you are low on cash. It's the full price of the phone (over 20-24 months) and it's still locked to AT&T only!! I would buy an unlocked iPhone if you are paying full price anyways. it will be an easier resale and bring a higher price down the road..

 

[kch50428]

That's it? I Assume the Apple Store will have SIM cards for whichever carrier I choose?

That I'm not sure about... you can buy the unlocked, sim free device from Apple and go to a carrier store for a sim...

 

[2ndAmendNut]

Can I pull the Sim card out of my Verizon 5S and here is it?

 

[zerog46]

Yes, thats what I did when i upgraded. Just pop in the sim.

 

[kch50428]

Can I pull the Sim card out of my Verizon 5S and here is it?

That will work - but just double check via customer service or your MyVerizon page that the new device's MEID is in Verizon's systems for legacy 3G/CDMA support.

 

[anaphora68]

That's it? I Assume the Apple Store will have SIM cards for whichever carrier I choose?

ONLY if it is for a major carrier. If you are going with a smaller carrier, regional, or prepaid, you will need to obtain a NANO SIM.

 

[ritesh]

Decide on your new carrier. See which band of LTE he operates on and accordingly choose your unlocked phone. No point in buying a phone, which won't be compatible with your future carrier.

https://forums.imore.com/e?link=htt...ww.apple.com%2Fiphone%2FLTE%2F&token=yEpuXySI

 

[2ndAmendNut]

I just went with the current carrier, Verizon, since we likely won't be switching next year anyway. Btw, LOVE this 6 Plus!


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