14 DAY TRIAL // Apple’s US store customers can now buy an official, factory-unlocked iPhone 5 from the company’s web store by simply scrolling over the three wireless operators to a drop-down menu that opens access to three choices with three different price tags.
US Apple customers can now have the iPhone 5 shipped to their door in a week’s time, which is a great improvement compared to October when you couldn’t get one delivered to your address in less than 3 weeks.
Buyers can also opt for the unlocked version of the handset, which comes free of any operator ties.
The unlocked iPhone sold in the US Apple online store only works on supported GSM networks, such as AT&T. Those roaming the CDMA airwaves of Verizon are out of luck.
“When you travel internationally, you can also use a micro-SIM card for iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S or a nano-SIM card for iPhone 5 from a local GSM carrier,” Apple says.
“The unlocked iPhone will not work with CDMA carriers such as Verizon Wireless or Sprint,” the company confirms, adding that only two orders can be placed per customer.
“The unlocked iPhone includes all the features of iPhone but without a wireless contract commitment,” Apple clarifies.
The company advises customers who don’t want a multiyear service contract to opt for the unlocked iPhone. For those who prefer to use a local carrier when traveling abroad, the unlocked iPhone is “the best choice,” Apple states.
The company also explains that these iPhones don’t come with a micro-SIM or a nano-SIM card, “so you’ll need to get one from any supported GSM carrier worldwide.”
“To start using it, simply insert the card into the slot on your iPhone and turn it on by pressing and holding the On/Off button for a few seconds. Then follow the onscreen instructions to set up your iPhone,” says Apple.
Customers can also opt to buy their unlocked iPhone with financing.