Mobile phones have been a craze in this generation. It’s not only used for communication, but also for networking purposes and multimedia. This multi-functional device is useful for personal and business purposes. Millions of mobile phone units are produced annually by cellphone companies due to increased demands and technological advancement. With millions of cellphone units produced, a high percentage of these phones are locked.

Consumers are usually confused whether to buy a locked or unlocked mobile phone. Mobile phones can be used in a particular GSM or CDMA network. GSM is known as Global System for Mobile Communications. It functions with a SIM card. If a mobile phone is locked, a SIM card of another network can’t work in the device. Changing to another SIM card won’t be possible. CDMA or Code Division Multiple Access is widely used in North America especially in the United States. CDMA usage in Asia works with an R-UIM card while in the US, propriety handsets are used to enable the network. Phones with CDMA network is locked in the company’s system.

Locked phones has several disadvantages. Users can’t switch to a different SIM card during emergency cases. Unlimited call and text services are offered by some GSM networks suitable for unlocked phones. When traveling to another country, unlocked phones can still be used by purchasing a SIM card available in the destination. Locked phones are useless when traveling abroad and purchasing a new phone would be expensive. Using of locked mobile phones with a CDMA network for roaming in another country is usually charge with higher rates. Locked cell phones limit your capacity to use the device in multiple ways. Possible problems encountered can also make you stressful.

Another disadvantage of networks with locked phones is that the user is obliged to apply a contract. If a contracted phone becomes useless to you, then you have to wait for the contract to end before you can disregard it. Unlocked phones are beneficial for businessmen because of affordable call and text rates. Calling and messaging is also limited within a specific amount loaded. You don’t need to worry about an incoming bill charged by networks with locked phones. If you want to buy a new cellphone, then selling your unlocked mobile phone can be priced in a higher value due to upsurge of consumers demands. Unlocked cell phones also have disadvantages. Having multiple SIM cards can be confusing. You need to remember different numbers and informing your numbers to multiple contacts like your family and friends can be time consuming and exhausting.

Unlocking a phone is convenient, but it is important that the procedure must be consulted and done by a professional technician or a reliable online source. Increased demands of this service resulted to the appearance of several branches with expert technicians worldwide to aid users in unlocking different cellphone units. Unlocking accessories are also available depending on your cellphone model. Before unlocking your phone, you must have a backup file for contacts and important messages in case a problem occurs. Opting for an unlocked or locked mobile phone will depend on your needs. Consider the disadvantages and advantages presented.

Author Bio: Martha Pauling is a techy writer who enjoys sharing info on unlocked blackberry torch and ways to unlock blackberry pearl as well as other tweaks.

Category: Computers and Technology
Keywords: mobile phones,mobile phone,locked phones,unlocking mobile phones,locked mobile phones