Cupertino confirms that Canadian residents can now get a contract-free iPhone 4

Jul 27, 2010 10:23 GMT  ·  By
Apple confirms 'commitment-free' initiative for iPhone 3GS and iPhone 4 customers
   Apple confirms 'commitment-free' initiative for iPhone 3GS and iPhone 4 customers

Apple’s iPhones are generally sold with a contract, but some territories are being shipped factory-unlocked devices which support any carrier actively providing services in the area, as long as the SIM card matches the phone’s hardware. In the case of iPhone 4, Canadian residents have a choice, but only as long as their preferred carrier offers micro-SIM cards.

Over at its Canadian online store, Apple is offering up some valuable information for those planning to purchase their new iPhone, saying they have a choice of carriers in the territory, by opting for the “commitment-free” method. Carriers including Bell, Rogers and TELUS have confirmed support for the micro-SIM standard, and, implicitly Apple’s new smartphone. As spotted over at store.apple.com/ca, Apple’s confirmation goes (also available in the image above):

Buy your iPhone from Apple commitment-free.

It works with the carrier of your choice.

Buy your iPhone from the Apple Online Store and choose your own GSM carrier. You can change carriers at any time. It’s easy to set up.

Get a compatible SIM (iPhone 3GS) or micro-SIM card (iPhone 4) and select a plan from the carrier of your choice. Then insert the card and set up your iPhone using iTunes on your Mac or PC. With a few clicks, you can start making calls. It works internationally.

Because this iPhone is commitment-free, you can purchase a micro-SIM or SIM card and service from a local carrier at your destination. Or check with your home carrier regarding international roaming charges.

Featured FAQs are also available to visitors of Apple’s Canadian online store. Questions like “Does iPhone work with any SIM card or carrier worldwide?” and “How do I activate my iPhone to start getting and sending calls?” are answered there, including instructions on getting a SIM card.

While an iPhone 3GS costs $549 to purchase unlocked and ready to use on any operator’s network, iPhone 4 will be priced at $659 for 16GB, and $779 for 32GB when it becomes publicly available in the territory.