PrePaidGSM.net Forum (Archived) - View Single Post

nix · 10-07-2007, 13:13

A PAYG phone will usually be branded, definitely firmware, but often the case too. A sim free phone doesn't have any branding on, and is always more expensive as the operators in the UK subsidise their phones (contract phones attract a higher subsidy, which is why many phones are free on contract).

As the firmware has been modified, some features may be added/removed. Usually the added part is usually java games and preconfigured web access, custom icons (with possibly some off-line content on the service).
An example of removed features is on the Nokia N95 where the VoIP features have been removed on some networks.

Unlocking a phone will not add/remove any features - it simply turns off the sim-lock. Features may only be disabled if you flash the phones firmware (e.g. to replace the customised with the manufacturers original version).

Some phones can have their sim-lock removed by entering a code, others by a program when the phone is connected by a data cable (e.g. USB one that may come with the phone), and others may require a specialist unlock clip. Most Nokia phones (except the high end newer ones) can simply be code-unlocked and there are a few free websites set up where people can do it themselves.

I've unlocked two of my phones freely by cable (motorola V3 and Samsung E900).

	(#8)
nix (Offline) Junior Member Newbie Posts: 8 Join Date: 06 Jul 2007 Country:	10-07-2007, 13:13 A PAYG phone will usually be branded, definitely firmware, but often the case too. A sim free phone doesn't have any branding on, and is always more expensive as the operators in the UK subsidise their phones (contract phones attract a higher subsidy, which is why many phones are free on contract). As the firmware has been modified, some features may be added/removed. Usually the added part is usually java games and preconfigured web access, custom icons (with possibly some off-line content on the service). An example of removed features is on the Nokia N95 where the VoIP features have been removed on some networks. Unlocking a phone will not add/remove any features - it simply turns off the sim-lock. Features may only be disabled if you flash the phones firmware (e.g. to replace the customised with the manufacturers original version). Some phones can have their sim-lock removed by entering a code, others by a program when the phone is connected by a data cable (e.g. USB one that may come with the phone), and others may require a specialist unlock clip. Most Nokia phones (except the high end newer ones) can simply be code-unlocked and there are a few free websites set up where people can do it themselves. I've unlocked two of my phones freely by cable (motorola V3 and Samsung E900).