Expert: DebiN - 1/14/2010

Question
hey!  I normally don't have to ASK questions because i've always been able to google the answers i've needed... but in this case the available answers to my question are a bit too vague...

I live in Canada, and although my iphone 3gs is jailbroken and unlocked (blackra1n & blacksn0w), the unlock wasn't necessary since i'm with a legit provider... i only did it because i can and because i figured it can't hurt.  But it actually turns out to be a good thing since i've just found out that i'm moving to Florida in March.

Since Canada has so few cell providers and they all offer the iPhone, unlocking is kind of pointless and therefor there is very little info on the subject.  My question is:  Since i'm bring my phone down, what are the best and/or cheapest options for me.  Seeing as how i'm unlocked, i'm free to go with any sim-based provider.  Which company would offer me the best (most bang for my buck) option?

Basically, if At&T is actually the monster everyone makes it out to be, whats the next best option that allows me to enjoy my phone to its fullest.

Speaking of AT&T, would my Canadian Iphone even work with them or would i have to buy theirs?  (i'd rather avoid buying a new one since mine is pre-tethered)

Also, what are my prepaid options...
And lastly, i know the difference between prepaid and 'month by month', but if i bring my OWN phone to the table, do i need to sign a contract if I want a normal plan? the reason i ask is because not having a SS#, i obviously couldn't pass a credit check.

I know this is long winded, but thanks so much in advance!

Answer
So, the good news is that your iPhone will work with either AT&T or T-Mobile without issue in the US. It's the same model that is sold by AT&T and will work properly in the US. Prepaid plans from either AT&T or T-Mobile are pretty similar and you can obviously get these without having to worry with a credit check. You will not need to sign a contract to get a prepaid SIM card. Keep in mind that if you use the data in any way other than WiFi, you will rack up a lot of data usage that will go very quickly on a prepaid plan.

Since you are moving to Florida and I assume will eventually start working, you will need to get a SS# anyway and since you already have an iPhone capable of working on the AT&T network, you might want to consider getting a plan with AT&T for voice and iPhone data ($30.00 a month for unlimited data) once you have your SS#. You won't need to sign a 2 year agreement because you have your phone already, but it may be worth your while. Until then, a prepaid plan for Tracfone (who uses AT&T's network mostly), T-Mobile or AT&T will work for you without issue. I hope this helps. Thanks. DebiN