[Golfinsocal]

Perhaps unlocking would allow uses beyond current locked abilities...abilities that put Americans at risk, the National Security kind? Just a thought.

[Abby4116]

As I read this, unlocking a phone allows one to use a sim card from another carrier (T-mobile and Net10 are 2 that advertise "bring your phone"). Their service is much cheaper than the major carriers.

As far as I can figure, you can still buy an UNLOCKED phone and buy a sim card from one of the pay as you go carriers (no contract). You will pay more for the phone upfront but save on monthly charges for the life of the phone.