Andre Yoskowitz
5 Jan 2012 13:17
Government regulators in Chile have mandated that all phones sold in the country must be unlocked.
Having an unlocked phone means the device can be used on any GSM carrier and not be locked down. The rule is now in effect but will become mandatory on January 16th.
Even if you purchased your phone before the new law, the government will make available a new website to help you unlock your device. Add your device info and IMEI number and the site will send you an unlock code.
Chile is now the third country to have such a law. Singapore and Israel have both banned locked handsets.
Hopefully this will be a trend that catches on around the world.