iPad Mini: Are UK contract iPad minis unlocked?

[dopeytree]

I have an iPad mini from three on contract just wondering if it is unlocked?
It is brand new never been unwrapped from plastic so not activated etc.

How do I tell without swapping in another SIM card?

[j_maddison]

It will be locked to the network.

Unless the device is subsidised well, or it offers a better payment option for you as opposed to paying upfront, then I'd always buy from Apple or a third party as opposed to directly from the network. They might unlock it for a free

[Gav2k]

Unlocked.

I say this as several people at work took advantage of 'deals' 3 orange and tmobile and there all unlocked.

[j_maddison]

Originally Posted by Gav2k

Unlocked.

I say this as several people at work took advantage of 'deals' 3 orange and tmobile and there all unlocked.

Well I'm amazed! When my friend had his for his wife from 3 it was locked.

[Gav2k]

Originally Posted by j_maddison

Well I'm amazed! When my friend had his for his wife from 3 it was locked.

May be hit and miss

[j_maddison]

Originally Posted by Gav2k

May be hit and miss

Or a customer complaints issue, usually the networks don't do something unless they have to

Then again, if you're tied into a 24 month deal, they'd be getting their money regardless, so perhaps they've just stopped locking them