How well would iPhone 5 function?

[rui no onna]

So you can pay nothing for 6 months and then unlock it? Can it be country unlocked too?

No. If you want to be able to unlock, you need continuous 6 months paid service. SIM unlock opens use for all compatible carriers both domestic and international.

You can, however, use the SE without service like an iPod Touch. It does need an activated SIM with compatible carrier but that comes with the package/kit and you can activate the SIM card without paying for service.

 

[cleanair]

How can you activate the SIM card without paying for a service?
What would be the cheapest amount you could pay for 6 months of continuous paid service?