there are locked, un-locked and unbranded phones. my understanding is the unbranded phones are of those sold in Europe, China. my questions:
1. for example, a phone was locked to AT&T, and was un-locked. what problem could I have if I use it for Rogers?
2. what problem could I have if I use a Unbranded phone with a company like AT&T?


another question is:
what do you think is the best TEXT-Message phone?

thanks.

I've used two Chinese phones on ATT with no problem at all. They could care less. If the phone has net capabilities you'll need a data plan in order for it to work.

I've been using unlocked and unbranded Nokias on AT&T for years. Just drop the SIM card in the phone and go. They make phones specifically designed for North America that utilize the 3G frequency bands on AT&T as well as Rogers.

The Nokia E71 is a great messaging phone but you may want to wait for the upcoming E72 in a few months. If you want cheaper then perhaps the E63 is an ideal package.

Ok as I understand it.

A locked phone can only be used on a particular network, i.e. AT&T or Rogers. An unlocked phone can be used on any compatible network. I'm using compatible to mean technology, i.e. GSM, and frequency, i.e. 850MHz or 1900MHZ.

A branded phone is one that contains software for a particular network. For example the startup screen my make reference to a carrier. There may be software for accessing a carriers store for ring tones and games.

So if you had an unbranded phone, or a branded phone from AT&T, you wouldn't be able to access the Rogers online store to download games because the phone wouldn't have the Rogers software to do that.