What can a unlocked iPhone do for you?

Ever since the iPhone was released, people have complained about Apple’s restrictions. While many see the iPhone as a “walled garden” that’s easy to use without any errors, others see it as a prison. They look at the outside world where mobile devices can multitask and run apps that aren’t approved by Apple, and they want to break free. Those who wish to escape Apple’s restrictions have taken to unlocked cell phones, opening up a whole new world of apps and possibilities. The following are a few of them.

1.) iPhonemodem

iPhonemodem is an app that turns your iPhone into a modem for your laptop. It’s great for long road trips and business on the go when you don’t have a good wifi signal. Plus, if you’re already paying for 3G on your iPhone, why should you pay for it twice on another portable device? When you look at the savings, unlocking your iPhone to get this app just makes good economic sense.

2.) Custom Themes

You may have noticed that the iPhone isn’t all that customizable. Sure, you can switch out the background image, but that’s not the same as being able to control the complete look and feel. After you jailbreak your iPhone, you get access to a ton of custom themes to suit your style. Consider it a fashion upgrade.

3.) Free custom ringtones and notification sounds

Yet another way you are unable to customize a standard iPhone. With an unlocked iphone, you can download as many of these custom sounds as you want.

4.) Using VOIP over a 3G connection

Due to Apple’s contract with AT&T, it’s bad business for Apple to allow you to use VOIP over a 3G connection. When you unlock your iPhone, you bypass this restriction altogether. If you change some of your calling habits and decide to only place calls using VOIP, you can save a ton of money on your next phone bill.

5.) It’s a necessary precursor to unlocking your phone

Or you can go one step further and unlock your phone completely. Jailbreaking gives you the tools to do this and use whichever carrier you want. Also, if you plan on reselling your iPhone, you’ll be happy to know that unlocked iPhones have a higher resell value.

If there’s one big reason to unlock your iPhone, it’s because it will save you money. When you aren’t chained to AT&T, you get better service and the ability to make VOIP calls over a 3G signal. Imagine only having to pay your Skype bill every month, not AT&T’s. On top of that, you get custom themes, apps, and ringtones. There are a few risks involved in the process. You will void the warranty, and there is a very small chance of irreversible damage. We still think that when you weigh all the risks and the huge benefit you get on the other end, unlocking your iPhone is definitely worth it.