Anyone else surprised there wasn't an unlocked iPhone 5 announced this time?

[meder87]

It was done for the 4S but not the 5. Although the 5 uses LTE, wouldn't the hardware used in the 4S to make it a world phone also make the 5 a world phone? Maybe I don't fully understand the technologies. If there isn't one coming now, I assume the 5S will get the unlocked version. I apologize if this has been discussed before. Couldn't find anything about it and someone else's thread about not being able to really use 5 over seas useless.If there isn't LTE in the area, wouldn't it revert back to 3G speeds or 4G.

 

[mohsy90]

Likely had to do with supply and demand. All the major carriers worldwide got an allocated stock. 90% of buyers will be buying through a contract but you can still expect unlocked versions to be released within the next 1-2 weeks.

And yes, it is still a world phone and you wont need to wait for a 5S.

 

[southfrisco]

They did announce pricing for an unlocked iPhone 5 already

But they did not announce a release date.

http://appleinsider.com/articles/12/09/13/apple_reveals_unlocked_iphone_5_prices_in_us_canada

 

[jdblas69]

On the Canadian apple store unlocked is the only option you have to purchase, Iam not sure if you will be allowed to buy unlocked at the retail store though