My friend gave me an old ATT Razor phone and he said this should work in Europe. After I charged it, it said something like "install SIM card". Does this mean that it's unlocked and all I need is to buy the SIM card when I get there? I just wanted verification from the phone savvy folks out there because I don't want to find out that the phone still needs unlocking when I get to Italy and try to install the SIM card. Thanks!
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32349 posts
Claudette,
As the phone is an AT&T model, you might stop by one of your local T-Mobile stores, and see if one of the helpful "sales associates" will lend you a SIM for a minute or two.
If you insert the SIM and the phone switches on normally, that's a good indication that it's unlocked.
Also, be sure to check the specifications on the Charger, to ensure that it's designed for "world operation" (220 VAC electrical systems).
Cheers!
Posted by
San Francisco, CA, USA
97 posts
Ask a friend with a T-Mobile phone (the other GSM carrier in the US) to pop out her SIM and put it in your phone. If your phone is unlocked, it'll show that it's connected to the T-Mobile network, and you'll be able to place a call. If it's locked, it'll say something like "invalid SIM" or "network not found" and you won't be able to place a call.
Posted by
Houten, Utrecht, Netherlands
73 posts
I haven't checked it, but I believe not all North American RAZR phones can operate in Europe. The quad bands will, triple bands may, but dual bands will not work. So you may want to check what you've got.
Posted by
OP
Huntington Beach CA
1162 posts
Thanks for the advice. It looks like I have some homework to do to figure out if i can use this phone but it'll be worth it so I can keep in touch with my kids while I'm gone.