Expert: DebiN - 1/26/2010

Question
Hi,

I have a question about unlocking a phone.

Phone:  Blackberry Tour 9630
Carrier:  Verizon

Ive never done this before so would like to know what to expect.  I will be going to Australia next month.  I know it is better to get a local SIM card as the other option would be expensive.  How does this work?

When I get a local sim card Im assuming it will be a local number, but I can still access my number/voicemail if need be.  

When I get back to the US, would all I have to do is put in my original sim card from Verizon and should be ok?  Is there anything I would have to do (where I unlocked the phone) so my phone can work when Im back in the US again?

Any help would be apprecaited.
Thank You,
Michelle

Answer
First, I would not attempt to unlock your phone. It will invalidate your warranty. Contact Verizon and ask them if they can provide you with the unlock code. If they do this, then you are good to go. Otherwise, do not mess with the phone yourself.

Is it cheaper to use a local SIM? Yes, for making calls within the country you are in, but no to anything else. You cannot access your local voicemail without incurring high charges because a call to your voice mail would be an international call (whether you have a local SIM or are using Verizon service). Whenever you are out of the country, calling your voice mail is an international roaming call.

Your SIM card from Verizon is kind of irrelevant. It's used for traveling abroad and when in the device, likely prevents it from showing that it is missing a SIM card, but it is not used except when traveling. your ESN number is coded to your wireless number and that's why it works.

You would not be able to use any of your data features abroad with a local SIM since you are associated with Verizon's BlackBerry server.

I don't know how long you are going for, but if it's a week or two, I might recommend just getting the discounted international roaming from Verizon (if they have a roaming agreement where you will be traveling to) and only using your phone in emergencies or to occasionally check voice mail (knowing you will incur charges). If you feel that you really need a phone, then get an inexpensive disposable one when you get to Australia to use for local calls or in an emergency. I really wouldn't bother with unlocking the device. I hope this helps. Thanks. DebiN