People have been able to buy unlocked phones and use them without a service contract for over a decade in the US. In recent years, you can even change mobile networks from your couch with a few taps via eSIM.
The US has 3 mobile networks, and it’s a massive country with massive infrastructure needs. I imagine costs must be at least a little bit higher to offset the need for more infrastructure per customer.
Yes, but not everyone knows how this all works, and the barriers that are still in place do still effectively limit many from shopping around. Many people shopping for phones in the US will visit a wireless retailer and will be funneled to locked phones on contract.
The US has 3 mobile networks, and it’s a massive country with massive infrastructure needs. I imagine costs must be at least a little bit higher to offset the need for more infrastructure per customer.