Apple starts selling unlocked iPhones in US

Apple on started selling "unlocked" iPhones in the US for the first time, allowing owners to switch carriers to a limited extent and save money when traveling. Apple is selling them on its websites and its store for $649 and $749 depending on how much memory they have. They're identical to the versions sold for use on AT&T Inc.'s network, but don't require a two-year contract. The buyer will separately have to buy a Subscriber Identity Module, or SIM card, from a carrier to activate the phone. Many overseas carriers are fully compatible with the phone, so international travelers can switch out their US. SIM card with one from the local country to avoid AT&T's international roaming fees. Apple already sells unlocked iPhones in all other countries where the phone is available