Buying a new phone

bluesa1

If I purchase a new phone, I assume that I can use the sim card of any company that I choose, is this correct.

Also, when I have chosen a supplier and have inserted their sim card into my phone, does it automatically 'lock' itself to that network or, will it remain an 'unlocked' phone enabling my to switch networks as and when I wish

Many thanks.

sagaris99

It depends where you buy the phone from

Generally speaking, buying a phone with contract or pay and go from an operator will mean that it'll be locked to their network initially. It is possible to unlock it in the future, but there may be a wait for this (eg Three force you to wait 6 months).

If you buy the phone outright from John Lewis or suchlike, it will be Unlocked. You can put any sim card in at any point, and the phone will not lock to that network. It is yours to use as you see fit. This also applies for Carphone Warehouse, or any operator you can buy the phone as SIM FREE.

If buying through ebay or similar, sellers should advertise as Unlocked/Locked to XXX which should help you.

Any others q's just shout

bluesa1

Thank you sagaris99, that's splendid news.  I have been looking at contracts but I think that I am more than likely going to buy a phone outright and sim free.

Thanks again.  very much appreciated.