INDEX // mb Ideas on Publishing Books in Canada (and other attempts to write good)

Bell Mobility: Unlock Em If You Got Em

On Off Topic | 7 November 2009 with 1 comment

The latest Bell Mobility ads have an interesting disclaimer in the small print. Phones on their new HSDPA network must be “compatible on bands 850 MHz and 1900 MHz frequencies” and must be “unlocked”. Last time I checked “unlocking” phones was a divisive intellectual property issue: protected in the US but a potential legislative item in Canada.

Here is the complete phrasing: “Devices must be unlocked except when purchased from Bell and must be UMTS/HSPA compatible on bands 850 MHz and 1900 MHz frequencies. Excludes devices operating on Bell’s or other carrier’s CDMA networks. Some services (e.g., some e911) may not be available. … Unlocking your device may void manufacturer’s warranty and Bell may not provide a replacement warranty.”

The shoe is now on the other foot as Bell is desperate to steal customers from Rogers.

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