For several years, the sale of mobile phones has ceased to be exclusive to mobile phone operators, and consumers can purchase them at technology or brand stores. So, users should know the difference between buying a free mobile phone and another service provider.

For those who are going to change their mobile and are in doubt between the two options, here we point out the main differences between the two forms of purchase, which generally do not change the phone itself, but some details such as updates or payment methods.

What is a free mobile phone?

First of all, it is important to define this type of mobile, which is one whose IMEI is not linked to any phone operator, but has free bands for the user to change service providers as often as he wants.

In some countries, operators are obliged to sell mobile phones in this way, so you may be able to buy a free device in one of these places, although there are other obligations, such as permanence clauses.

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bloatware

This is one of the main technical differences between both types of mobiles. The bloatware Refers to applications that come pre-installed and are owned by the carrier or phone brand.

These types of platforms can be a problem because they are often not very functional and take up a lot of memory space, so the functionality of the mobile phone is lost from the moment of purchase, which can be annoying over time.

Not all service providers have a lot of bloatware, and there are some that don’t install anything, so it’s a matter of checking so you don’t give up storage space.

Something that doesn’t happen with unlocked cell phones that come with no pre-installed apps beyond Android apps and branded apps that can often be uninstalled.

Updates

The second point that directly affects the device is updates. There is a lot of fragmentation in Android so that each manufacturer has OS patches to their liking.

There is a significant disadvantage with mobile phones purchased from a carrier, as these companies will be the last to confirm software updates. Although freephones will be the first to disintermediate the process.

An additional step is taken with the operators, as they must confirm that these events will not adversely affect the network and other operational characteristics.

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Warranty

This is to the advantage of the operators, because when buying an unlocked mobile phone, the warranty is often directly with the manufacturer, i.e. the brand of the device. This can be a very long process, sometimes it takes time for the phone to be repaired or answered.

On the other hand, with mobile service provider companies, they have the guarantee that they are closer to the customer, even closer to the home, which makes everything more convenient.

financing

Buying a cell phone often requires an extensive payment plan because of the costs involved. In this case, the operators have a significant advantage, as many offer interest-free installments in the first months, billing linked to the mobile plan and a replacement option, in which the device is renewed at a lower price after a certain period.

Unlocked cell phones often have to be paid for in cash or using credit cards, which increase the initial price over time.

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