UK, French, Canadian devices usable anywhere

When the iPhone 4 and 8GB iPhone 3GS launch in the country in July, Canada will finally get its first unlocked iPhones, an Apple FAQ confirms. Although people can already buy iPhones there from multiple carriers, including Bell, Rogers, Telus and Virgin Mobile, models have so far been limited to ones locked to their original vendors. The unlocked option will be available through Apple's online store.

Apple has also confirmed that the new phones will be usable with many GSM carriers worldwide, making it possible to travel with them without incurring roaming charges or paying for an international plan. People will have to swap in a SIM or micro SIM from the second carrier, and then configure an iPhone in iTunes. Similar freedom is said to be available with new unlocked phones in France and the UK, where people have already had limited opportunities to switch between providers.

by MacNN Staff