GSM phones/service question. Can an unlocked phone be "accidentally" locked by the provider?

[AnyMal]

So our Verizon contract is up at the end of June and we decided to switch to Cingular. I am planning to buy our phones elsewhere so we won't be locked in a two year contract. I plan to buy unlocked tri-band or quad-band phones so we can use them oversees as well.

My question is, when I sign up with Cingular they will provide me with a sim card, right? Is there a possibilty it could lock our unlocked phones.

Also, any recommendations for a tri-band flip phone in as close to $100 as possible?

 

[rudeguy]

no they cannot lock your phones through the SIM. However you will have fun if you want to use the internet on your phone.

 

[AnyMal]

Nah, I do not care for Internet on the phone.

 

[AnyMal]

anybody else?

 

[Viper GTS]

No a SIM won't lock your handset.

$100 won't buy jack sh!t in unlocked handsets, do you have any idea how large the typical handset subsidy is?

Viper GTS

 

[AnyMal]

Originally posted by: Viper GTS
No a SIM won't lock your handset.

$100 won't buy jack sh!t in unlocked handsets, do you have any idea how large the typical handset subsidy is?

Viper GTS

I know. I am also willing to buy used. Ebay is awash with unlocked phones for under $100.00 I just don't know which one to purchase.