T-Mobile officially welcomes unlocked iPhones, HSPA+ compatibility coming soon
Ever since the release of the first iPhone, Apple fans who didn't much like AT&T have been unlocking their GSM iPhones for use on T-Mobile. The carrier was always supportive of these defectors (as long as they hadn't broken their contract) but users were still forced to use only T-Mobile's 2G data because of the difference in AT&T and T-Mobile's wireless bands.
Now that the iPhone is on three different carriers, most AT&T deserters can simply get the iPhone on Verizon or Sprint. However, that also makes T-Mobile the only carrier without the device, and as a result they are actually trying to get iPhone customers to switch to their network. In a statement made to 9to5Mac, a company spokesperson said this.
"In order to set up an unlocked iPhone on T-Mobile’s network, customers simply need to purchase a microSIM card and select a T-Mobile Value plan that suits their needs.
In addition, we will continue to deliver more value to customers as we expand and modernize our 4G network. Beginning this year, we will introduce HSPA+ service in our 1900 MHz PCS spectrum. When we do, our 4G network will be compatible with a broader range of devices, including the iPhone."
Taking advantage of AT&T's new policy of unlocking iPhones for any customer in good standing, T-Mobile is clearly attempting to draw users of Apple's flagship device to their network. Not only does the company think that its value plan will save consumers money, they are also rolling out iPhone compatible HSPA+ that will allow iPhone owners to use faux-4G in addition to 2G (and sometimes 3G).
Although it may be a small carrier, I like that T-Mobile is welcoming unlocked iPhones and likely the service problems that come with them. T-Mobile does have some of the cheapest plans available as well, so iPhone users may want to consider them as an option as well when buying their device.
[9to5Mac]
