Unlocked phones are not specific to any particular network technology, such as CDMA or GSM. Instead, the term “unlocked” refers to a phone that is not tied to a specific carrier or contract. This means that an unlocked phone can be used with any carrier that is compatible with the phone’s network technology.
To understand the difference between CDMA and GSM, it’s important to note that these are two different types of network technologies used by carriers to provide cellular service. CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) and GSM (Global System for Mobiles) are two different ways of transmitting and receiving signals.
CDMA technology is typically used by carriers like Verizon and Sprint in the United States. On the other hand, GSM technology is used by carriers like AT&T and T-Mobile in the U.S. and by most carriers worldwide.
In terms of compatibility with unlocked phones, GSM is the more widely adopted technology. Most unlocked phones are designed to work on GSM networks, as it is the global standard. This means that if you have an unlocked phone, it will likely work on carriers that use GSM technology, both in the U.S. and internationally.
Some popular U.S. carriers that use GSM networks include AT&T, T-Mobile, Cricket, MetroPCS, Simple Mobile, and Tracfone. These carriers allow customers to bring their own unlocked phones and use them on their networks.
It’s worth noting that not all unlocked phones are compatible with all carriers, even if they both use GSM technology. This is because different carriers operate on different frequency bands, and a phone must support the specific frequency bands used by a carrier in order to work properly on their network.
To ensure compatibility, it’s important to check the specifications of the unlocked phone and compare them with the frequency bands used by the carrier you intend to use. This information can usually be found on the carrier’s website or by contacting their customer service.
Unlocked phones are not inherently CDMA or GSM. They are simply phones that are not locked to a specific carrier. However, most unlocked phones are designed to work on GSM networks, which are used by a majority of carriers worldwide. It’s important to check the compatibility of an unlocked phone with a specific carrier before purchasing or using it on their network.