[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.