Since cell phones have become standard communication devices, many cell phone service providers have obtained deals with equipment manufacturers for exclusive rights to certain equipment models. Even as there are more equipment choices for consumers to consider, in reality, these deals considerably restrict consumers' freedoms. To counter such limitations, some quite intelligent and innovative consumers have figured out how to unlock cell phones from being bound to specific equipment carriers and networks. Still, since equipment technologies are always changing, there are many people that have no clue that cell phones can be unlocked.

Gone are the days when consumers could only buy from four or five equipment models; there are now countless cell phones with different capabilities, with service available through many different providers. The problem is, however, most of these phones are designed to work only on certain equipment networks, according to the agreements between manufacturers and service providers. On the other hand, a equipment that has been unlocked can function on any network anywhere in the world. Being able to unlock cell phones gives consumers the freedom to choose any phone they wish knowing they will not be restricted to only one service provider.

It is important that consumers have freedom in the cellular choices because different phones and service providers each have their own advantages and shortcomings. The cellular companies that have the best and most reliable networks do not always have the best phones. A consumer that has just bought a phone from one service provider may discover that another company has better priced plans. With an unlocked phone, consumers are essentially able to tailor their cellular service, matching any phone with any plan they wish.

It is an even greater benefit when consumers can take advantage of different carrier's special offers and deals all without having to give up their current phones and purchase new ones. Sometimes employers may offer free cellular service from a provider with inferior cell phones; employees with unlocked cell phones can make use of this benefit without having to give up better phones. For students studying abroad, people on extended international business trips, or people relocating overseas, being able to unlock cell phones lets them use their favorite device regardless of where they are in the world. Consumers will have greater freedom to move around in the world, knowing they can potentially use their unlocked equipment on any network.

While it is understandable that the exclusive deals manufacturers and network providers are good business, unlocked phones actually make both cell phones and the cellular networks more functional than they currently are. Greater consumer freedom and convenience, the benefits of unlocked cell phones could change how the cellular industry does business.