SIM-free iPhone 7 with US Carrier

[incoherent_1]

I'm considering purchasing a SIM-free iPhone 7 in cash just swapping SIM cards (I currently have an AT&T SIM). I've read something about carriers locking new phones based on the first SIM that's inserted into it, but that's only for carrier-specific phones on a monthly payment plan -- correct?

Don't want to pay $750 for a brand new phone only to have it lock onto AT&T.

 

[Shadowbech]

I'm considering purchasing a SIM-free iPhone 7 in cash just swapping SIM cards (I currently have an AT&T SIM). I've read something about carriers locking new phones based on the first SIM that's inserted into it, but that's only for carrier-specific phones on a monthly payment plan -- correct?

Don't want to pay $750 for a brand new phone only to have it lock onto AT&T.

Sim-Free iPhone 7 purchased at Apple store will remain unlocked permanently regardless if you activate it with an AT&T sim. You can always insert a different sim and it will still work. However, I read that the iPhone 7/7 Plus purchased at Target, Best Buy, Walmart, etc are also sim-free but they are locked to that carrier once it's activated and thus is advisable that a verizon sim card is used before turning on the phone for the first time.

 

[jav6454]

I'm considering purchasing a SIM-free iPhone 7 in cash just swapping SIM cards (I currently have an AT&T SIM). I've read something about carriers locking new phones based on the first SIM that's inserted into it, but that's only for carrier-specific phones on a monthly payment plan -- correct?

Don't want to pay $750 for a brand new phone only to have it lock onto AT&T.

Even paying for an AT&T iPhone full price at an Apple Store guarantees it's unlocked.

 

[benzslrpee]

the sim free phone will remain unlocked