DVD Jon whips up a way to activate iPhone without AT&T
By Ryan Block 
posted Jul 4th 2007 12:28AM
posted Jul 4th 2007 12:28AM
Ok, so apparently the phone still doesn't work (we wonder if there isn't some kind of mechanism that binds the iPhone to select AT&T SIMs), so it's not like it's an unlocked device, but at least you can now use it as "the best iPod [Apple's] ever made." We've yet to confirm the method though -- anyone want to give it a shot? Let us know in comments.
[Thanks, Justin and Gordon]
My understanding is that for the iPhone to work properly it requires Apple network infrastructure installed within the carriers network/switches.
R is correct...its not the carrier slowing down the activation. remember carriers activate phones everyday not apple. apple's itunes keeps you from activating your phone
R wasn't referring to activating the phone. He's saying that in order for it to have functionality, it must have a network to operate on.
Although, I believe that some functions will work, some will not.
I assume you probably can't, but has anyone been able to activate an iPhone for just the $20 data with no phone usage?
i dont believe that would be possible.
at&t billing systems start off with a Price Plan. then under that you add Features.
the $20 is a Feature. you cant even put it on an account without a compatible Price Plan to house it.
I'd definiatly try this. I have an american iPhone sat with me right now, in Manchester, England. And whilst I have fully accepted that it will not work as a phone until a carrier picks it up, I'd love to start using it as an iPod in the mean time.... Let me know.
Grant
Why would it require special network apparatus? Doesn't it have a regular GSM-radio? I understand if certain features (visual voicemail) don't work but certainly calls, SMS and data should work.
data may not until a hack is figued out as im sure the data settings are preconfigured on it (i dont own one, so i dont know for sure. but i would be surprised otherwise)
AT&T has to squeeze every last penny it can get out of service contracts since they are getting taken to the cleaners by Apple for the exclusive iPhone rights. Hence, a simple $20 service plan for the phone is understandably not happening.
www.iphailure.com