Question about smartphones, unlocked PPC's, and carriers

[Joelacrane]

Ive been poking around on ebay, looking at smartphones. Ive seen some that are "unlocked". Whats it mean, and can i use an "unlocked" smartphone with any plan and any carrier? Ive never had a cell phone myself, so i have no clue how everything works. thanks!

[Darius Wey]

Ive been poking around on ebay, looking at smartphones. Ive seen some that are "unlocked". Whats it mean, and can i use an "unlocked" smartphone with any plan and any carrier? Ive never had a cell phone myself, so i have no clue how everything works. thanks!

These usually refer to phones on a GSM network (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GSM). If they're unlocked, it means you can use it with any carrier - that is, just insert the SIM, choose a plan, and you're good to go. If they're locked, it usually means you have to use that phone with a SIM provided by a certain carrier, at least until your contract expires.

[Sven Johannsen]

If you've never used a cell phone before, be aware there can be a significant amount of setup reguired on an unlocked phone for the data connectivity. The phone stuff will just work. Some PPC/Smartphone vendors of unlocked phones have files you can run to set everything up. Sometimes you just have to dig around the internet to get the right values. The tech supports have no issues about providing you the settings, but it is not uncommon to get a tech that hasn't got a clue.

Beyond that the unlocked phone will likely cost you more as the Carrier isn't subsidizing the cost by signing you up for a contract. Not trying to cause you concern, but you might be better off for you first cell phone with a carrier supported one.

[Joelacrane]

Thanks for the information guys! I am now looking at buying a new HP iPaq rz1955 (WM5), but i am still considering a smartphone.