Unlocked 3G iPhones have started to sell in Hong Kong. This is the first time that unlocked 3G iPhones are being sold anywhere. The unlocked phones can work on any network in the world and cost HK$ 5,400 (£376) and HK$ 6,200 (£432) respectively for the 8GB & 16GB versions. When converted to US Dollars this turns out to be around $ 700 US for 8GB version & around $ 800 US for the 16GB versions. In euros this turns out to be around € 475 & € 550 respectively.
The Apple HK website mentions to interested customers -
iPhone 3G purchased at the Apple Online Store can be activated with any wireless carrier. Simply insert the SIM from your current phone into iPhone 3G and connect to iTunes 8 to complete activation.
The thing to note here is that when converted to Indian Rupees, the unlocked 3G iPhone will cost Rs.32000 & Rs. 37000 for the 8GB & the 16GB versions respectively, which is not much more than the Rs.31000 & Rs.36100 price of the 3G iPhone in India, however the 3G iPhones selling in India are locked either to Vodafone or Bharti Airtel. Aren't Indians being unfairly treated by these companies that despite paying similar amount as their counterparts in Hong Kong, they are getting locked 3G iPhones instead of unlocked ones ?
Source : Apple Hong Kong Store
