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iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max to be Available SIM-Free at Launch
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In this scenario, I think the SIM free option is for a new line, where picking AT&T will have your phone already ready to be activated on the network when it arrives. Both options will be unlocked.
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I think big reason sim free phone is available is because the modem is the same in all. Apple does not have to worry about limiting Qualcomm models.
It’s about time. Had a huge fiasco last year when I couldn’t preorder a Vz phone because I’m on ATT, then they screwed my order up so my ship date never changed and I ended up camping out and buying a Vz phone in person. Don’t know why they’ll let you buy a Vz phone in person w/o a contract but won’t online.
But all of this doesn’t matter now because I can buy a sim free off the bat.
But all of this doesn’t matter now because I can buy a sim free off the bat.
What is the difference between buying a sim free and putting att sim vs buying with att sim at msrp.
That might well be the case, though the U.S. has been the odd man out for many years now. New iPhones have been available SIM-free for years in most countries from day one. It thus could also be that Apple is merely less accommodating to U.S. carrier wishes this year. Though a faster international rollout might also have something to do with it as SIM-free phones available from day one in the U.S. can serve as a supply line for countries in which the phone launches later.
Guessing this means supply is plentiful (i.e. they produced enough of the Xs's). The Xr does not have that option displayed at this point - its only tied to a carrier (presumably because they are behind in production on it - which rumors forecasted).
Yes, the SIM free option is available for pre-order on both the Xs and the Xs Max. Seems the XR doesn't have a SIM free option as of right now.
Thanks. Just realized I skimmed through the main article too quick. So glad they finally offer this!
Well in the 7/8/X, Apple split the Modems between Qualcomm and Intel. So the Sim free had the Qualcomm modem with CDMA (required for Vz and Sprint) and the ATT had an Intel modem. While I am on ATT, I buy whatever is most compatible with every carrier for better resale.