Video:Getting an iPhone at Apple Store vs. Cell Carrier

Transcript:Getting an iPhone at Apple Store vs. Cell Carrier

Hi, I'm Shane Murphy, your technology Guru for About.com. Today, we'll compare and contrast purchasing an iPhone at an Apple Store versus your carrier's local retail store.

Similarities Between Apple Store and Carrier Retail Store

Your new iPhone will have the same base cost no matter where you get it from. The difference lies in the carrier subsidy you'll receive, which depends on your eligibility, whether you pick AT&T or Verizon, where you live, and other factors. You're also getting essentially the same product and same Apple Care regardless of where you purchase it. Any legitimate brick and mortar you purchase your iPhone from will also set it up for you right then and there. The procedure varies slightly across all three options, but it's all similarly painless.

Differences Between Buying iPhone at Apple Store and Carrier Store

The major difference is that only the Apple Store will give you the option of buying either a Verizon or AT&T iPhone. Unless you perform the complicated task of a "jailbreak" to open it to other carriers, the iPhone that you purchase from Verizon and AT&T stores will be locked to that carrier permanently, so if you cancel your contract, you're left with a useless iBrick. Once you decide and make the carrier commitment, you'll receive their phone subsidy, regardless of where you make your purchase. Rates vary, but the standard discount on the base model is $450. If you know which provider you're going with in advance, you're best off buying your iPhone from their store so you can get their support, get details about different plans, etc. Check out About.com's dedicated iPhone channel for more useful information on your smart phone.

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