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View Full Version : possible to use iPhone 3Gs without cell plan?



Oats
Sep 23, 2009, 10:58 AM
Probably this question has been asked, but couldn't find anything after searching...

I am interested in an iPhone 3Gs, but don't want/need a cell plan. I only plan to use Wi-Fi, and never make cell calls (I'm a verizon customer, if you care).

Reasons the iPod touch doesn't meet my needs: no camera (and the video cam in the nano doesn't take stills). No GPS.

So in theory, could I buy a used iPhone 3Gs on craigslist sometime in the future, never use a calling plan, but continue to use the iPhone as an iPod touch BUT with GPS functionality and a camera? Would I still be able to download apps, etc, or will Apple lock it down if it's not on the cell network?


rjsmith18
Sep 23, 2009, 11:07 AM
I know that the iPhone works without the SIM card, but I don't think you would be able to do gps without a plan. I know it uses both wifi and cell towers to find its position prior to the satellite picking it up. You would also need a constant connection to wifi to see the maps.
countrydweller
Sep 23, 2009, 11:16 AM
GPS will work, you will need a wireless signal to do much. As for getting apps, that would be a no go, unless you have a friend who would use their sim to get them for you, that might work.
stridemat
Sep 23, 2009, 11:21 AM
you wouldn't need a wireless signal, if you can access the app store you could purchase a 'sat nav' app which has all the maps already installed.

This has been discussed (http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=525134) here before, just took me awhile to find it.

Looks like it can be done!
Oats
Sep 23, 2009, 11:57 AM
As for getting apps, that would be a no go, unless you have a friend who would use their sim to get them for you, that might work.
Why? Are you sure I can't use the App store just over Wi-Fi?
alent1234
Sep 23, 2009, 12:00 PM
as far as i know apple will have your SIM card info and it's required for activation
countrydweller
Sep 23, 2009, 12:17 PM
Why? Are you sure I can't use the App store just over Wi-Fi?

No, not sure, but payment is usually tied to an account, you wouldn't have one.
bstpierre
Sep 23, 2009, 12:39 PM
No, not sure, but payment is usually tied to an account, you wouldn't have one.

Payment for apps is tied to your iTunes account, nothing to do with your AT&T account or SIM card.