Apple enthusiasts who are not really big fans of network contracts can now breathe a sigh of relief as the company has decided to release the unlocked iPhone 4S in November, a carrier free version of the recently released handset. But what may come as a disappointment to some is that the device will only support GSM wireless networks and not CDMA.
When announced last week, the smartphone was said to be designed for both GSM as well as CDMA networks. There was no word by the company as to why this device would be limited to CDMA bands. This network and contract free version of the handset should be most beneficial to users who travel much and would obviously prefer to use the services of local carriers. Such a target audience could opt for a micro SIM card from a local or global network to suit their traveling needs.
The iPhone 4S GSM model which is free of any carrier bindings will not vary in technical specifications from the current device being offered for pre-order from Sprint, Verizon, or AT&T. It will be available in memory capacities of 16GB, 32GB or 64GB. Although the Apple Store has confirmed the availability of this unlocked version in November, there is no word yet on the exact date as to when the device can be expected to start shipping.
The 16GB unlocked iPhone 4S will be available for a price of $649, while the 32GB and 64GB variants can be picked for $749 and $849, respectively.