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Unlocked GSM Phone

Started Mar 12, 2021 | Questions thread
Patrick T. Kelly Veteran Member • Posts: 4,629
Re: Unlocked GSM Phone
1

I'm no engineer but I believe AT&T uses GSM bands and Verizon doesn't. Verizon uses CDMA. Locked or unlocked isn't the issue. When you get a discounted device because you contract with a specific carrier it's "locked" to that carrier until your contract expires. Some devices use GSM and other use CDMA and must use a carrier that recognizes that band.

For example, here's the warning on a Sony Xperia 1 II International Model.

"Compatible with most GSM carriers and will NOT work with CDMA carriers."

Unlocked does not mean compatible with all carriers. Your best bet is to ask the service provider you're planning on using. If a service provider is selling a locked version of the phone then clearly it will work with the bands.

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Patrick T. Kelly
Oaxaca, Mexico

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