What Is Unlocking

What Is Unlocking:

Most network carriers "lock" the phones they offer to work ONLY with their branded SIM card (the removable chip in your handset) which contains a serial number that identifies your device to the network carrier. An attempt to use a competitor's SIM card in a locked phone will result in an error messages (e.g., "SIM Card Not Accepted"). Unlocking a mobile phone enables a user to switch service from one network provider to another without having to purchase a different phone unit.

What is Jailbreaking?

In order to "unlock" a device for use on a different wireless network, it must first be "jailbroken". Jailbreaking is the act of installing an alternate operating system (OS) on an iPhone, iPod touch or iPad than the preinstalled software issued by the manufacturer. In addition to freeing users to select a wireless carrier of their choice, jailbreaking also makes it possible to install and run programs ("apps") that are incompatible with the original OS.

What cell phone services can I use an unlocked iPhone with?

Many services are available to use with the iPhone as long as they use the same GSM Network such as T- Mobile, Verizon, Cingular, Sprint, Rogers, Nextel, and many more. Please Note: T-Mobile USA users must disable 3G before proceeding to unlock iOS 4.0 on iPhone 3G & 3GS.

What is a Baseband?

"Baseband" refers to the internal components of the iPhone that process phone calls and Internet access--the phone's internal modem. It runs software, separate from the main operating system (OS), that you will ocassionally be prompted by your wireless service provider to download the latest update over the phone network.

What is Firmware?

Firmware is computer programming stored in a semi-permanent state on a Read Only Memory (ROM) chip. Once installed, it remains in place even when power is turned off. It enables hardware to function properly and allows software applications to run on the hardware. It is called firmware because it’s not software (i.e., the programs that users run on the computer), but it’s also not hardware (the physical objects that make up the computer). On the iPhone, firmware is the set of operations and tools that sit between the hardware that the phone uses and the software that runs on the phone. It enables features, fixes bugs, and attends to the functioning of the phone. Periodically, Apple releases firmware updates to add new functionality to the iPhone, correct problems with it, and close security holes.

What is Cydia?

Cydia is a software application (app) that allows you to install apps to your iPhone or iPod Touch that are not available through the Apple app store. Through Cydia you will have access to an entire universe of freeware and shareware that is not supported by the original operating system that came with your device(s).