[krn]

> I am really conflicted about cellphones. I was unhappy with the crap ware preloaded on my Verizon Android phones. I am happier with a Verizon iPhone, as far as not having a lot of junk preinstalled.

I personally prefer SIM-free Android One smartphones[1], which come without any bloatware and with monthly security updates.

Not only they offer the best price / performance ratio, but they are also easy to keep private by uninstalling / disabling those few apps that come with the device.

[1] https://www.android.com/one/

[mark_l_watson]

And then I could install a Verizon SIM card myself? Sounds much better. I am stuck with Verizon because they have the best coverage in the mountains of Central Arizona.

[krn]

I am not sure how the mobile operators work in the US, but I was able to install a local SIM card in every country I have been to for more than a few days, which saved me hundreds in mobile data fees across the world.

[josteink]

Yes. SIM = freedom.

SIM-free sounds like something you are given in oppressive regimes with one state-controlled telecom actor.

Can’t see why anyone would want it.

[josteink]

> I personally prefer SIM-free

If I can’t insert a SIM card of my choice, how do I choose or switch provider? Is it hard coded to whatever Google prefers?

I’m open to lot of things with phones, but you can take the SIM-slot from my cold, dead hands. That thing is not going.

[krn]

From the FAQ of the UK-based Carphone Warehouse[1]:

"What is a SIM free phone?

SIM free phones are sold without any SIM card or network attached to them. Normally, people buy the phone and then choose a SIM only deal for their calls and data. All SIM free phones come unlocked, so you can choose whichever network you like.

What are the benefits of buying a SIM free phone?

Normally, people buy a SIM free phone when they want to own the handset outright and take out a SIM only deal. This reduces the cost of a monthly plan as you are only paying the network for your minutes, texts and data allowance. SIM only deals aren’t only less expensive but they can be more flexible, as 1-month rolling contracts and 12-month contracts are common place."

[1] https://www.carphonewarehouse.com/mobiles/sim-free.html

[josteink]

If so the established term is “unlocked” (which is the default), making you free to use whatever SIM/provider you choose.

As such SIM-free is a terrible and confusing name making it sound like they are taking SIM-based freedom away (Kind of like Apple’s headphone jack-free phones).

[krn]

> If so the established term is “unlocked” (which is the default), making you free to use whatever SIM/provider you choose.

"SIM-free" means "bought without a contract". In my country, even devices with contracts come unlocked, making this term useless.