pay as you go phones are locked in UK?

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).

Thread Tools	Search this Thread
Show Printable Version Email this Page	Search this Thread: Advanced Search
Display Modes
Switch to Linear Mode Switch to Hybrid Mode Threaded Mode

	(#9)
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).