Before we begin I feel that it is important to explain that only some kinds of phones can be unlocked. Specifically phones that are compatible with the GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) network and have SIM Cards. GSM phones contain a small, removable card, known as a SIM (Subscriber Identity Module). This SIM Card is programmed with your carrier's subscription information and it stores your phonebook information. A SIM card can be removed and placed into another GSM phone, allowing you to quickly switch handsets while keeping your contacts and carrier's subscription information.

Now that we have cleared that up and you find that you fall into the proper category to be a candidate for an unlocked cell phone read on…

If you are a customer of any of the many wireless carriers that are using GSM SIM Card technology, including but not limited to such carriers as AT&T/Cingular, T-Mobile and Alltel, and your contract is expired or about to expire you might be hesitant to take the leap of signing a new 2 year contract just to get a small discount on a new phone (or perhaps a really cheap free phone).

Ask yourself this "Am I ready to commit to another 2 year contract just to get a discounted cell phone? or would I rather buy an unlocked phone and have my freedom back?" and let's face it, the discounts given on new phones simply do not justify a new 2 year commitment. Why not look into getting yourself an unlocked cell phone.

You might be wondering "Are unlocked phones as good as the phones I get from my carrier?", the answer is Yes, in fact when originally manufactured, all GSM SIM Card cell phones are unlocked. That means they can be used with any SIM card from any cell phone service provider, as long as they use the same frequency bands and they usually do. But your service provider locks them in order to lock you into their service. The cell phones you purchase unlocked are the same cell phones just without the restrictions!

"Are there other benefits of buying an unlocked cell phone?" Yes, you can also use unlocked cell phones Worldwide. As we all know when a phone is locked the wireless carrier that locked it forces you to pay what are usually very high roaming charges when you take your phone out of their network and use it elsewhere in the world. However, with an unlocked cell phone, you can travel anywhere in the world and simply buy a pre-paid GSM SIM Card from that location. After purchasing your GSM SIM Card you can then simply place it into the cell phones GSM SIM card slot (replacing your previous GSM SIM Card) and use the phone Worldwide without the ultra high costs.

So when it comes to cell phone and the question to commit or not to commit to a new 2 year cell phone contract? We strongly vote again it! Just say no and get your freedom back.