Jailbreak, flash allows CDMA iPhone on unofficial carriers
updated 01:40 pm EST, Mon March 7, 2011
Device not hard-locked to single network
The CDMA version of the iPhone 4 can be made to work on unsupported carriers, evidence has uncovered. While the device is only officially intended for Verizon at the moment, one person claims to have got it working on budget carrier Cricket Wireless. Likely preventing widespread switching is the need to jailbreak an iPhone, install third-party MMS software and then find someone from Cricket willing to perform a flash.
Carrier hacks for CDMA phones are relatively rare. GSM is the more common cellular standard, and every phone based on the technology is equipped with a SIM or micro SIM slot which makes it easier to switch carriers, whether officially or unofficially. An AT&T iPhone for instance must still be jailbroken and unlocked to be used elsewhere, but going to T-Mobile simply involves paying for an appropriate SIM card and smartphone plan.
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Joined: May 2002
Huh?
I've used both Bell Canada and Altel branded phones that I got off of eBay with Verizon. No jailbreaking or other hacking necessary. Not sure MacNN understands what's involved for CDMA switching of carriers. As long as the new carrier is willing...