Apple, AT&T put an end to contract-free iPhone 4s [u]
updated 12:30 pm EDT, Thu August 19, 2010
US amongst most restricted countries
(Update with AT&T correction) The option of a contract-free iPhone 4 in the US has vanished from the Apple and AT&T websites, reports observe. It was previously possible to buy a 16GB phone for $599, or a 32GB model for $699. In an FAQ, however, Apple now states that all US iPhones require a two-year AT&T contract, which does at least lower the hardware price. No explanation has been given for the change.
The US has become increasingly alone in terms of restrictions on buying an iPhone. Most regions with the device now have multiple supporting carriers, and in countries like Canada or France, it's possible to buy an unlocked phone compatible with many GSM carriers around the world. The situation may soon change if rumors of future Verizon support prove true.
Update: An AT&T spokesman states that the wording on Apple's website has not changed, and it should still be possible to get an iPhone 4 without a contract by going to an AT&T store.
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Buy unlocked iPhone from Canada
There is no real point in buying a locked iPhone for almost full price when you can buy an unlocked iPhone from Canada for only a little more and be able to use it with other sims around the world including SIMS you can rent from the airport in Japan.