Go to the Continent to buy an unlocked iPhone

on 21-11-2007

Well well, it seems there is finally a bit of justice in this world! A German court has reportedly forced T-Mobile to sell unlocked iPhones as well in their stores, after Vodafone's German subsidiary pushed for an injunction. That means that just like Orange in France, T-Mobile are no longer able to force customers to buy their contracts in order to get their hands on an Apple iPhone.

We have to say we like the approach some of our continental neighbours are taking with these issues. As a customer, you don't necessarily have to buy a T-Mobile or Orange contract to get an iPhone. The other great news for people who bought an iPhone initially (with a contract) is that they can get it unlocked for free by T-Mobile.

The catch? It will cost you €999 (that's $1,478 in today's money) to get an unlocked Apple iPhone in Germany! Wow. At that price, most people may still prefer to get a contract (€399 plus a minimum 2 year contract with T-Mobile)!

Still, we think this creates a good precedent and should be the start for a fall in prices for the iPhone hopefully in the next few months. Definitely a "coup" from Vodafone in Germany, they must be rubbing their hands with glee!

You can find out more about this story on the FT website.

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I hope they do this in the UK soon!

By: Isabella () on 21-11-2007

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I hope they do this in the UK soon!

By: Isabella ( IP 78.86.13.28) on 21-11-2007

:grin LOL I think this is great, it's really unfair that you're forced to be locked into a really long contract with an operator you don't necessarily like! That should force them to be a bit more competitive. My god, at that price though you have to really want one! Where can I win one again?

Dear O2, when are you going to sell unlocked iPhones in the UK? Maybe Vodafone can take them to court as well, that would be funny! :zzz