An unlocked mobile phone is a phone that is not locked into using a specific network provider, and can instead be used on any mobile network.
This means that you can buy an unlocked Android phone and use the handset with your existing provider by simply inserting your current SIM card into the unlocked phone.
Currently the only Android powered mobile phone available is the T-Mobile G1. If you are a software developer, you can buy an unlocked G1 handset to test your software applications whilst avoiding entering into any unnecessary service contracts with the T-Mobile network.
The beauty of buying unlocked phones that are powered by the Android platform is that you gain access to each new handset that is released without having any mounting month network contracts to pay.
The next Android powered phone is scheduled for release in April and will be available exclusively on the Vodafone network. Unlocked HTC Magic handsets will be available during that period, enabling fans of the Android platform and the HTC Magic to buy the phone without the need for a monthly contract with the Vodafone UK network.
The main benefits of buying an unlocked mobile phone include:
- The ability to use your existing SIM card
- Keep your existing telephone number
- You won't be tied to a 12month or 18month service contract from the mobile network
- You will have the ability to use local SIM cards if you travel abroad
- The ability to buy the latest Android phones when they are released without having to worry about monthly
- contract bills.
