2009Off Topic forum
Using unlocked iPhones on T-Mobile instead of AT&T
17 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- First and second generation unlocked iPhones will lose visual voicemail functionality when used outside their original carrier network.
- Unlocking iPhones involves a modification process that requires keeping the device on an older software version, as newer versions may patch the unlock method.
- Jailbroken iPhones must not be updated through iTunes, as doing so can reverse the unlocking modification.
- Used unlocked iPhones command high resale prices, often exceeding those of contract-locked devices.
- Turning off 3G and using EDGE network on first-generation iPhone hardware provides better coverage and approximately doubles battery life compared to 3G.
- T-Mobile operates a specialized support tier for unsupported devices that can assist with network configuration for iPhones.
- Maps navigation functions reliably on second-generation iPhones.
- An iPhone purchased directly from a carrier includes warranty coverage, specialized customer service, and the option to add extended AppleCare protection.
Depends on
- The discussion focuses on first, second, and third generation iPhones from 2009, making it potentially outdated for modern devices.
- MMS compatibility with unlocked iPhones on T-Mobile was described as uncertain at the time of discussion.
- Navigation and other features beyond voicemail were noted as untested for third-generation models.
- Unlocking methods are subject to change with each iOS update, requiring active research at the time of purchase.