SIM UNLOCK:
The good folks at Gizmodo did some homework and answered a question that immediately came to my mind during the press conference and thankfully they found the answer. Most of you already know T-mobile has a standing policy that after 90 days of service a customer in good standing may request a sim unlock code. Nothing new or surprising on that front. However, the question arose because of the high profile of the G1 and the heavy subsidy for T-mobile, there was some debate as to whether or not sim-unlock would be allowed.
“T-Mobile branded phones operating on the T-Mobile network may only use T-Mobile SIM cards. To use a T-Mobile branded phone on another wireless carrier’s network with a non-T-Mobile SIM card, you must first request a “SIM Unlock” code from T-Mobile. Conversely, if you have a phone from another North American wireless carrier, you may need to request a “SIM Unlock” code from that carrier before being able to use a T-Mobile SIM card on the T-Mobile network.
* SIM Unlock Codes will only be provided after your account has been active for 90 days. Only one unlock code may be provided per customer every 90 days.”
New Data Rules:
Yesterday the blogosphere blew up with some concerns over the 1GB limitation on data. Turns out T-mobile took heed and re-worded their data policy today to allow for a looser interpretation. The important thing is they got rid of the 1GB specific rule. This is why we love our magenta.
“3G coverage is available only in certain markets. See coverage map. To provide the best network experience for all of our customers we may temporarily reduce data throughput for a small fraction of customers who use a disproportionate amount of bandwidth. Your data session, plan, or service may be suspended, terminated, or restricted for significant roaming or if you use your service in a way that interferes with our network or ability to provide quality service to other users. Some devices require specific data plans; if you do not have the right plan for your device, you may not be able to use data services. Additional charges may apply. Domestic use only.”
Update: Engadget just posted a statement from T-mobile,
“Our goal, when the T-Mobile G1 becomes available in October, is to provide affordable, high-speed data service allowing customers to experience the full data capabilities of the device and our 3G network. At the same time, we have a responsibility to provide the best network experience for all of our customers so we reserve the right to temporarily reduce data throughput for a small fraction of our customers who have excessive or disproportionate usage that interferes with our network performance or our ability to provide quality service to all of our customers.
We removed the 1GB soft limit from our policy statement, and we are confident that T-Mobile G1 customers will enjoy the high speed of data access over our 3G network. The specific terms for our new data plans are still being reviewed and once they are final we will be certain to share this broadly with current customers and potential new customers.”