SIM card hack now available to unlock iOS 4.3
updated 01:25 am EDT, Thu March 24, 2011
Hardware hack has drawbacks, but works
A wafer-thin SIM interposer card from a company called Gevey is available which purports to unlock the (AT&T model) iPhone 4 running the latest iOS 4.3 software and baseband, Gadgets DNA is reporting. The SIM, which fits alongside an actual carrier SIM card together in the tray, uses a hardware hack to make the iPhone 4 available to non-AT&T GSM carriers, and supports iOS 4.0 and up along with baseband versions 1.59 and higher.
The SIM costs around $70 plus shipping, and only unlocks the iPhone rather than jailbreaking it as is normally necessary for a software unlock. At present, no software solution exists for unlocking the latest iPhone 4 OS and baseband.
The SIM does not work automatically; users must still follow a procedure which includes dialling an emergency number and hanging up (which may be illegal in some areas), then turning "airplane mode" on and off. If successful, the iPhone 4 simulates the effect of a "factory unlock" and becomes a "world phone" capable of accepting the SIM of any GSM provider.
The procedure has to be repeated each time the iPhone 4 is reset or loses all battery power. The website Applenberry.com of Oakland, California lists itself as the "exclusive distributor" but is seeking other distribution partners, though notably it does not offer a guarantee. [via Gadgets DNA]
