New generation of iPhone has been officially available and it comes in two versions this time, the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus. Apart from considering between a 4.7-inch and a 5.5-inch iPhone, consumers also have to deal with choosing among different models, including A1549, A1586, A1589, A1522, A1524 and A1593.
I see a lot of people buy iPhone 6 in the U.S. or on eBay with global shipping but many of those phones couldn’t work in their countries because there are some iPhone models manufactured for different wireless carriers and markets. They have almost the same tech specs but there are some differences in cellular connectivity. The situation is much better this year as the new iPhone 6/6 Plus features new VoLTE (Voice over LTE) technology, which means you can buy a GSM version and still can use a full range of services on CDMA networks. For example, you can buy a sim-free T-Mobile phone and completely avoid CDMA to use it on Verizon. Some carriers offering VoLTE are T-Mobile, AT&T and Verizon in the US; Hutchinson Telecom (3), CSL and SmarTone in Hong Kong; SK Telecom, KT and LG U+ in South Korea and StarHub in Singapore.
Read also: Differences between iPhone 6S Models (A1633, A1634, A1688 and A1687)
As VoLTE hasn’t become popular worldwide yet, I’d recommend you to check carefully so that you can purchase the most compatible one. The model numbers of iPhones can easily be found on the box or on the back cover. The amount of iPhone 6’s model numbers is less than iPhone 5S’, then it is much easier for us to pick the right one. So, what are the differences between those iPhone models? Let’s check them out.
iPhone 6
Buy Factory-Unlocked Apple iPhone 6 on Amazon
The 4.7-inch iPhone 6 comes in 3 model numbers, which are iPhone A1549 (GSM), A1549 (CDMA) and A1586. Here are details of those models:
1. A1549 (GSM): This model is compatible with 4G LTE networks on some major carriers in the US and Canada like AT&T, T-Mobile, Rogers (Fido). It supports following LTE bands: 1 (2100 MHz), 2 (1900 MHz), 3 (1800 MHz), 4 (AWS), 5 (850 MHz), 7 (2600 MHz), 8 (900 MHz), 13 (700c MHz), 17 (700b MHz), 18 (800 MHz), 19 (800 MHz), 20 (800 DD), 25 (1900 MHz), 26 (800 MHz), 28 (700 APT MHz) and 29 (700 de MHz). Besides, the GSM version also works on UMTS/HSPA+/DC-HSDPA (850, 900, 1700/2100, 1900, 2100 MHz) and GSM/EDGE (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz).
Read also: iPhone 6 A1549 (T-Mobile) Review
Below are some part numbers of the model:
United States:
iPhone 6 16GB Gold (GSM) T-Mobile MG562LL/A
iPhone 6 64GB Gold (GSM) T-Mobile MG5D2LL/A
iPhone 6 128GB Gold (GSM) T-Mobile MG592LL/A
iPhone 6 16GB Space Gray (GSM) T-Mobile MG542LL/A
iPhone 6 64GB Space Gray (GSM) T-Mobile MG5A2LL/A
iPhone 6 128GB Space Gray (GSM) T-Mobile MG572LL/A
iPhone 6 16GB Silver (GSM) T-Mobile MG552LL/A
iPhone 6 64GB Silver (GSM) T-Mobile MG5C2LL/A
iPhone 6 128GB Silver (GSM) T-Mobile MG582LL/A
iPhone 6 16GB Gold (GSM) AT&T MG4Q2LL/A
iPhone 6 64GB Gold (GSM) AT&T MG502LL/A
iPhone 6 128GB Gold (GSM) AT&T MG4V2LL/A
iPhone 6 16GB Space Gray (GSM) AT&T MG4N2LL/A
iPhone 6 64GB Space Gray (GSM) AT&T MG4W2LL/A
iPhone 6 128GB Space Gray (GSM) AT&T MG4R2LL/A
iPhone 6 16GB Silver (GSM) AT&T MG4P2LL/A
iPhone 6 64GB Silver (GSM) AT&T MG4X2LL/A
iPhone 6 128GB Silver (GSM) AT&T MG4U2LL/A
Canada:
iPhone 6 16GB Gold Unlocked MG3D2CL/A
iPhone 6 64GB Gold Unlocked MG3L2CL/A
iPhone 6 128GB Gold Unlocked MG3G2CL/A
iPhone 6 16GB Space Grey Unlocked MG3A2CL/A
iPhone 6 64GB Space Grey Unlocked MG3H2CL/A
iPhone 6 128GB Space Grey Unlocked MG3E2CL/A
iPhone 6 16GB Silver Unlocked MG3C2CL/A
iPhone 6 64GB Silver Unlocked MG3K2CL/A
iPhone 6 128GB Silver Unlocked MG3F2CL/A
2. A1549 (CDMA): This is considered as the world phone version. It supports all the same spectrum frequencies as the A1549 (GSM) and also includes CDMA EV-DO Rev. A and Rev. B (with 800, 1700/2100, 1900 and 2100 MHz bands). Besides, it works on UMTS/HSPA+/DC-HSDPA (850, 900, 1700/2100, 1900, 2100 MHz), GSM/EDGE (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz) and 4G LTE bands include bands 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 29. The model is compatible with Verizon and Cricket in the US. However, if you buy an unlocked Verizon phone, you will be able to use it on any other GSM networks like T-Mobile and AT&T as well. Here are some part numbers of this model:
United States:
iPhone 6 16GB Gold (CDMA) Verizon Wireless MG5Y2LL/A
iPhone 6 64GB Gold (CDMA) Verizon Wireless MG652LL/A
iPhone 6 128GB Gold (CDMA) Verizon Wireless MG622LL/A
iPhone 6 16GB Space Gray (CDMA) Verizon Wireless MG5W2LL/A
iPhone 6 64GB Space Gray (CDMA) Verizon Wireless MG632LL/A
iPhone 6 128GB Space Gray (CDMA) Verizon Wireless MG602LL/A
iPhone 6 16GB Silver (CDMA) Verizon Wireless MG5X2LL/A
iPhone 6 64GB Silver (CDMA) Verizon Wireless MG642LL/A
iPhone 6 128GB Silver (CDMA) Verizon Wireless MG612LL/A
3. A1586: This version is sold locked on some CDMA carriers in the US like C Spire, Sprint and US Cellular. This is the most versatile version but you won’t be able to unlock it easily in the US. Therefore, you have more chances to buy the factory unlocked A1586 in Asia or Europe. The unlocked version is also available on Amazon through some retailers. The model works on CDMA EV-DO Rev. A and Rev. B (800, 1700/2100, 1900, 2100 MHz), GSM/EDGE (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz), UMTS/HSPA+/DC-HSDPA (850, 900, 1700/2100, 1900, 2100 MHz) and TD-SCDMA 1900 (F), 2000 (A). Compatible 4G LTE bands are FDD-LTE (Bands 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 29) and TD-LTE (Bands 38, 39, 40, 41 which are corresponding to frequencies 2600 Mhz, 1900 Mhz, 2300 Mhz and 2500 Mhz).
Along with the iPhone 6 Plus A1524, this model supports both TD-SCDMA bands of China Mobile and band 39 for TD-LTE. The bands 38 and 40 are also available, so you absolutely can use LTE in Europe, Asia, and Latin America. The LTE will work on China Mobile Hong Kong, CSL, Hutchison, SmarTone in Hong Kong, Deutsche Telekom, O2, Vodafone in Germany, Optus (Virgin), Telstra, Vodafone in Australia, and 3, EE, O2 (Giffgaff), Vodafone in the UK. Below are part numbers of this model.
United States:
iPhone 6 16GB Gold (CDMA) Sprint MG6C2LL/A
iPhone 6 64GB Gold (CDMA) Sprint MG6J2LL/A
iPhone 6 128GB Gold (CDMA) Sprint MG6F2LL/A
iPhone 6 16GB Space Gray (CDMA) Sprint MG692LL/A
iPhone 6 64GB Space Gray (CDMA) Sprint MG6G2LL/A
iPhone 6 128GB Space Gray (CDMA) Sprint MG6D2LL/A
iPhone 6 16GB Silver (CDMA) Sprint MG6A2LL/A
iPhone 6 64GB Silver (CDMA) Sprint MG6H2LL/A
iPhone 6 128GB Silver (CDMA) Sprint MG6E2LL/A
iPhone 6 16GB Gold Sprint Factory Unlocked MG492LL/A
iPhone 6 64GB Gold Sprint Factory Unlocked MG4J2LL/A
iPhone 6 128GB Gold Sprint Factory Unlocked MG4E2LL/A
iPhone 6 16GB Space Gray Sprint Factory Unlocked MG472LL/A
iPhone 6 64GB Space Gray Sprint Factory Unlocked MG4F2LL/A
iPhone 6 128GB Space Gray Sprint Factory Unlocked MG4A2LL/A
iPhone 6 16GB Silver Sprint Factory Unlocked MG482LL/A
iPhone 6 64GB Silver Sprint Factory Unlocked MG4H2LL/A
iPhone 6 128GB Silver Sprint Factory Unlocked MG4C2LL/A
4. A1589: This version is available exclusively on China Mobile and you should only buy it if you don’t plan to use it on any other carrier. The iPhone 6 A1589 is compatible with TD-SCDMA 1900 (F), 2000 (A) as well as TD-LTE bands 38, 39, 40, 41, and GSM/EDGE (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz). Notably, the model also supports UMTS (WCDMA)/HSPA+/DC-HSDPA (850, 900, 1700/2100, 1900, 2100 MHz) and FDD-LTE (band 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 29) but they apply only to international roaming. That means 3G and 4G LTE of this phone won’t be compatible with China Telecom and China Unicom.
iPhone 6 Plus
Buy Factory Unlocked Apple iPhone 6 Plus on Amazon
At the moment, the 5.5-inch iPhone 6 Plus has 3 model numbers, which are A1522 (GSM), A1522 (CDMA) and A1524. Basically, the A1522 (GSM) bands are the same as iPhone A1549 (GSM), A1522 (CDMA)’s bands are the same as A1549 (CDMA), A1593 is the same as A1589 and A1524 is corresponding to the A1586. Details are shown below.
1. A1522 (GSM): This is the popular iPhone 6 Plus version that can work properly on most GSM carriers over the world, including United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. Its compatible bands are GSM/EDGE (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz), UMTS/HSPA+/DC-HSDPA (850, 900, 1700/2100, 1900, 2100 MHz) and LTE (Bands 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 29).
Read also: iPhone 6 Plus A1522 (T-Mobile) Review
Here are some known part numbers of the model:
United States:
iPhone 6 Plus 16GB Gold (GSM) T-Mobile MGC12LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 64GB Gold (GSM) T-Mobile MGC72LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 128GB Gold (GSM) T-Mobile MGC42LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 16GB Space Gray (GSM) T-Mobile MGAX2LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 64GB Space Gray (GSM) T-Mobile MGC52LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus128GB Space Gray (GSM) T-Mobile MGC22LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 16GB Silver (GSM) T-Mobile MGC02LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 64GB Silver (GSM) T-Mobile MGC62LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 128GB Silver (GSM) T-Mobile MGC32LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 16GB Gold (GSM) AT&T MGAN2LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 64GB Gold (GSM) AT&T MGAW2LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 128GB Gold (GSM) AT&T MGAR2LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 16GB Space Gray (GSM) AT&T MGAL2LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 64GB Space Gray (GSM) AT&T MGAU2LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 128GB Space Gray (GSM) AT&T MGAP2LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 16GB Silver (GSM) AT&T MGAM2LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 64GB Silver (GSM) AT&T MGAV2LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 128GB Silver (GSM) AT&T MGAQ2LL/A
Canada
iPhone 6 Plus 16GB Gold Unlocked MG9P2CL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 64GB Gold Unlocked MG9W2CL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 128GB Gold Unlocked MG9T2CL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 16GB Space Grey Unlocked MG9M2CL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 64GB Space Grey Unlocked MG9U2CL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 128GB Space Grey Unlocked MG9Q2CL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 16GB Silver Unlocked MG9N2CL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 64GB Silver Unlocked MG9V2CL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 128GB Silver Unlocked MG9R2CL/A
2. A1522 (CDMA): This is the world phone version of the iPhone 6 Plus, it is the one you get when you buy it through Verizon. As all Verizon iPhones are factory unlocked, it can work on most CDMA and GSM networks in the world. To know if it is compatible with carriers in your country, check out its radio frequencies: CDMA EV-DO Rev. A and Rev. B (800, 1700/2100, 1900, 2100 MHz), GSM/EDGE (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz), UMTS/HSPA+/DC-HSDPA (850, 900, 1700/2100, 1900, 2100 MHz) and LTE (Bands 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 29). Some known part numbers are listed below:
United States:
iPhone 6 Plus 16GB Gold (CDMA) Verizon Wireless MGCM2LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 64GB Gold (CDMA) Verizon Wireless MGCU2LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 128GB Gold (CDMA) Verizon Wireless MGCQ2LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 16GB Space Gray (CDMA) Verizon Wireless MGCK2LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 64GB Space Gray (CDMA) Verizon Wireless MGCR2LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 128GB Space Gray (CDMA) Verizon Wireless MGCN2LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 16GB Silver (CDMA) Verizon Wireless MGCL2LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 64GB Silver (CDMA) Verizon Wireless MGCT2LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 128GB Silver (CDMA) Verizon Wireless MGCP2LL/A
3. A1524: The model is available via Sprint in the US and it is sold locked to the CDMA carrier. However, you can buy the unlocked iPhone 6 Plus in some countries in Asia and Europe like Singapore, Hong Kong, or Japan. It has a wide range of spectrum frequencies and technically it is compatible with any GSM or CDMA operator. However, the problem is that you won’t be able to buy the version easily in the US. If you want to buy the factory unlocked iPhone 6 Plus A1524 in the US, you can look for it on Amazon.
Following are its radio frequencies: CDMA EV-DO Rev. A and Rev. B (800, 1700/2100, 1900, 2100 MHz), TD-SCDMA 1900 (F), 2000 (A), GSM/EDGE (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz), UMTS/HSPA+/DC-HSDPA (850, 900, 1700/2100, 1900, 2100 MHz), FDD-LTE (Bands 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 29) and TD-LTE (Bands 38, 39, 40, 41). You will be able to use LTE in Europe and Asia including countries like China, Hong Kong, Japan, France, Germany, Singapore, Australia and the UK. Listed below are some part numbers:
United States:
iPhone 6 Plus 16GB Gold (CDMA) Sprint MGCX2LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 64GB Gold (CDMA) Sprint MGD42LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 128GB Gold (CDMA) Sprint MGD12LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 16GB Space Gray (CDMA) Sprint MGCV2LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 64GB Space Gray (CDMA) Sprint MGD22LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 128GB Space Gray (CDMA) Sprint MGCY2LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 16GB Silver (CDMA) Sprint MGCW2LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 64GB Silver (CDMA) Sprint MGD32LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 128GB Silver (CDMA) Sprint MGD02LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 16GB Gold Sprint Factory Unlocked MGAA2LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 64GB Gold Sprint Factory Unlocked MGAK2LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 128GB Gold Sprint Factory Unlocked MGAF2LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 16GB Space Gray Sprint Factory Unlocked MGA82LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 64GB Space Gray Sprint Factory Unlocked MGAH2LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 128GB Space Gray Sprint Factory Unlocked MGAC2LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 16GB Silver Sprint Factory Unlocked MGA92LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 64GB Silver Sprint Factory Unlocked MGAJ2LL/A
iPhone 6 Plus 128GB Silver Sprint Factory Unlocked MGAE2LL/A
4. A1593: This version is distributed exclusively by China Mobile, the largest carrier in China. Therefore, you shouldn’t buy it if you want to use on other carriers. It supports TD-SCDMA 1900 (F), 2000 (A), TD-LTE (bands 38, 39, 40, 41) and GSM / EDGE (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz). Some bands of UMTS(WCDMA) /HSPA+/DC-HSDPA (850, 900, 1700/2100, 1900, 2100 MHz) and FDD-LTE (band 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 29) are also available but they can’t be used inside mainland China, they work only for international roaming purposes.
Leave a comment below if you have any issue picking a suitable iPhone 6 or iPhone 6S model. I’d love to help.
Disclosure: We might earn commission from qualifying purchases. The commission help keep the rest of my content free, so thank you!
Elizabeth C says
Hi,
Here is where I am struggling. I live in England and am moving back to the US in June 2015. I would like to get the unlocked iPhone 6 Plus here in the UK and then be able to use it when I am back in the US under AT&T as a carrier. My concern is will this phone work in the US if bought from the UK and will LTE be an issue once I come back. From what I have read if I get model A1524 (which how do I know which model I would get?) will it work on AT&T’s network, will there be an issue of LTE not working to its’ full capacity if at all? I am beyond perplexed, any help would be appreciated.
Thank you!
Elizabeth
Tuan Do says
Hi Elizabeth,
If you buy the sim-free iPhone 6 Plus in the UK, you can be confident that it will be fully functional in the US, either on AT&T or T-Mobile.
If you buy the sim-free version in the US (A1522 GSM), some LTE bands aren’t cover and you may lose 4G signals sometimes. So, go for it.
Hope it helps.
Anthony says
It appears that it USED to be the case that some LTE bands weren’t covered but it seems that that’s no longer the case. If I’m reading this correctly, ALL LTE bands are covered with all models. It’s just the CDMA functionality that’s included with the Verizon versions. Do I have that right?
Tuan Do says
Hi Anthony,
Yes it will be alright if you use it in the US but as some countries in Asia and Europe are using TD-LTE, only the iPhone 6 A1586 or iPhone 6 Plus A1524 has the full compatibility.
robert says
Tuan,
can I use a recently purchased iphone 6 from Usa VERIZON in brazil to given as gift and all features work?
Many thanks
your too kind!
Elizabeth C says
Hi Tuan! Thank you so much for your help. I have one more question and then I hope this will put this to rest. Say if I buy the phone over here in England, how will I know beforehand if it is the A1524? Is the A1524 the only version that England will have?
You are a gem!
Thank you!
Elizabeth C
Tuan Do says
Hi Elizabeth,
I contacted sales team of Apple UK and they have no idea what is the model they will sell on September 19. So I’m not really sure if it is A1524 or A1522. It could be A1522 because the website stated “Unlocked iPhone isn’t tied to one network, so you have the freedom to choose any supported GSM network worldwide.”
I only can confirm my guess after the official release.
NP says
Hi Tuan/Elizabeth,
First I thank you for writing this article. It’s a nice piece of information that connects with the pieces I read from where else.
You probably know this by now–The 6+ GSM sold in the UK is A1524 GSM.
To Elizabeth, yes it will work fine with your US carrier (AT&T) assuming your phone is unlocked.
Cheers,
Antonio says
Dear tuan do,
I bought a sim free iphone 6 16gb in uk from dixons, would I be able to use it in Italy on italian providers such as vodafone,tre,tim ??
Thanks
NP says
Hi Antonio,
First, you didn’t say if your phone is CDMA or GSM. You need to check that first. (If you bought it in the UK, chances are it’s a GSM.) Then, check with your Italian providers if they’re CDMA or GSM. Assuming you’re unlocked, if matched then it will work fine.
Cheers,
steve says
Tuan Do,
I bought an A1524 from Japan (MGAH2J/A) sim free from the Japan apple store.
Will I be able to get T-Mobile LTE when I visit the USA?
Arigato.
NP says
Hi Steve,
Upon my research about iPhone 6/6+ I can confirm that your A1524 (sim free/unlocked) will work fine with T-Mobile LTE in the US.
Cheers,
Sharad says
Hi tuan
I think u r the best person who can help me with my question,
Kindly advice, which model of iphone6 plus cdma work for india.
Awaiting ur reply, rgds
BN Reddy says
I, think A1522(GSM) IPhone 6+ is the best phone to use in the world including India
Please confirm Mr.Tuan
Cheers
bn
vivi says
am planning to buy iphone 6 plus from US to use in india. as far as my knowledge, A1524 works well. but it is hard to find in US. so still confused whether to buy the unlocked T-mobile A1522 ( GSM ) or A1522 ( CDMA ).. any help would be very much appreciated.
Amir says
Dear Guys
I am a UAE citizen, which always traveling between UAE to Japan, USA, China, Iran and some other European countries during each year. It is because of my job. I have decided to buy a new iPhone 6 and got confused about it. After I look around and found this webpage, I have decided to ask a question. Which model of iPhone would be suitable for some body like me that always traveling too many countries? Please help me to find the exact model. Of course I have not any type iPhone model before and this is m first time I used to have apple products.
Sincerely yours
Amir
Ang says
Quick question, i bought an at&t iphone 6 on contract in the USA, but i am plsnning to shift to india soon, so will it work in India with 3G netwrk if not 4g?
Imma says
Wich model is better for MALDIVES
Kürşat says
Hi Tuan if i buy iphone 6 64 gb a1586 or 1589 in the us and if i come to Turkey does that phone work properly?What do you think of it?
Alexandros C says
Hello i am planning to get an iphone 6 16gb from bahrain. Will it work in Europe and more specifically in Cyprus?
Thank you
James says
HELLO Guys, i saw many spam so i have to fairly share you my experience, I know there are many unlock providers are scam on the net cos im a genuine iphone hacker, the best permanet unlock service between many unsuccesfull tries with other sites was MOBILEUNLOX they have the ability to unlock any iphone 3g, 3gs, 4,4s,5,5s also included the newest iphone 6 and 6+ in around 24h.
Skis says
Um, mobileunlox is a scam. A VERY brief internet search came up with some of the victims you should probably reimburse.
Marshall says
Yes it will work. I have this model (iPhone 6 Plus, Gold, White, Model A1524, 64GB). It is unlocked and I have used it on AT&T for the past 2 years. No problem. I plan to post it for sale on eBay the week of October 5th – 12th 2017
Marshall
Chhabila Kumar sahu says
I insert my sim not work or not network in my mobile please help me
Elizabeth says
Hi, I’ve heard that the LG technology makes one less safe and more exposed. Presently I have AT and T but use the phone about once a week at the most, so I’m thinking about bying a new phone (mine is old an alcatel and also to move to Consumer Celullar just because I don’t use the phone more than perhpas 5 to 10 minutes a month, when I use it. However, I would like to know if I should buy the IPHone 6 A1549 (GSM): I think this model and any model comptabible with AT and T will do or the IPHone 6s which I heard is bigger (which I like) but it is also more vulnerable to intrusion. I confess that even though I rarely use the cell phone, I’m a privacy freak that is terrified of globalism (I must just say it).
I guess it is risky to buy a used phone, correct?
Thanks
Elizabeth ( the one from US)
paul says
Hello
what is the best model for europe?
Thank you
Tuan Do says
A1586 for iPhone 6 and A1524 for iPhone 6 Plus.
Joan says
Hi Tuan!
I am from Spain, and I am going to live in the US for a short time. My planning is to buy there in the US an iPhone 6 sim-free to use it in Barcelona afterwards. Is it possible, when buying it, to ask for the A1586 unlocked? or I have to go for the A1549 (CDMA) unlocked?
Just in case… I am using Telefonica as my carrier, both A1586 and A1549 (CDMA) would work?
Thanks in advance!
Tuan Do says
Hi Joan,
The iPhone A1586 is available on Sprint only and I guess you won’t be able to buy an unlocked A1586 in the US. You have to be an active Sprint customer for at least 90 days to unlock it. Here are their requirements:
1) The device be currently active on an active Sprint Account for 90 days
2) The account be at least 90 days old
3) The account not be delinquent
4) The account not be on an Account Spending Limit
So, you can buy the A1549 GSM at Apple Store or A1549 CDMA at Verizon.
I just searched for Telefonica in Spain, is it offering GSM 900/1800 MHz and using the 1,800 MHz and 800 MHz frequency bands for LTE? If it is correct, you shouldn’t have any problem. :)
DK says
just bought 2 Sprint version iPhones (A1586) from the Apple Store at full retail price ($750 + tax/each) and popped in my China Mobile SIM and it worked fine. Had the two phones taken to China and they work fine too. My boss on the other hand went to a Sprint retail shop and financed five iPhone 6+ (A1524) from Sprint and took them to China too and none of them worked. I think the key was purchasing from Apple instead of Sprint and paying full retail instead of financing anything and being locked into a contract. Hope this helps others! :)
Nate G. says
Tuan Do, first off, thank you for your extremely informative article. I’m glad to see I have the most capable iPhone 6 (A1586) as I will be living in Korea for several months soon and also enjoy traveling to the UK and Europe as frequently as I can.
My question is with transfering my phone from Sprint to Verizon here in the US. Right now Verizon’s IMEI number checker shows that my device “isn’t compatable” with their network. Is this because my phone hasn’t been unlocked by Sprint yet? Or is it truely not compatable?
In addition to the four criteria you listed for having the phone unlocked, you also cannot have any financing on the phone still outstanding (hence my phone is not unlocked yet,). Once my phone is paid off and unlocked, will I be able to transfer my phone to Verizon’s service and network?
Thanks in advance for your reply.
ROGERS says
i want to know the cost of a housing modelA1586 THANKS I WILL BE GREATFULL TO HEAR FROM YOU
M says
Hi Tuan Do
But what’s the difference for Europe in general and how I choose a model? I am from Bosnia and Herzegovina. I want to take in the USA T-mobile contract free at Apple. How can I be sure it will work here ???
martin says
which version in europe? the a1586 coma or gsm?
zeynep says
If I buy an iphone 6 LTE network in Canada and have it unlocked. Than would I be able to use the phone in France? My provider is free. Please could you tell me how it works. Thank you so much.
Grant says
Hi Tuan Do,
I hope that you can help me. I currently live in the U.S. and use T-mobile, but am moving to China in a three months. I will be living there for the next five years so I would like to buy a model that is fully compatible with Chinese networks. I have a 100 dollar gift card and would like to purchase the unlocked T-mobile version of the iphone 6 while in the U.S., but am afraid of future compatibility issues upon moving to China. But I also know apple products are generally more expensive in China and don’t think I can use my gift card overseas. Should I buy now or wait ’til I’m in China?
Tuan Do says
Hi Grant,
This is not an easy decision. You will have 3 options:
1. Buy the T-Mobile version with your gift card: You still can use your phone but it won’t be able to get TD-SCDMA and TD-LTE on China Mobile.
2. Buy in China: In this case, you can’t use your gift card and as the iPhone 6’s release is being delayed in China. I’m not sure when you can buy it.
3. Buy the Sprint version: The Sprint version will have full compatibility in China, however, you will need to unlock it in the US before traveling. Sprint have some requirements as I mentioned in a comment above, you have to be active for at least 90 days. In case you want to unlock the iPhone 6 before that 90 day mark, you would need to have a case created by a Sprint agent after establishing your account. However, it will be difficult to get approved.
Hope it helps.
Grant says
Thank you very much Tuan Do for your answer. Using the T-Mobile version I know I won’t be able to get TD-SCDMA and TD-LTE on China Mobile , but would I be able to access 3G or 4G data on one of the other networks in China?
Tuan Do says
Sure,
You can’t use 3G on China Mobile because it runs on TD-SCDMA. However, China Telecom and China Unicom are using FDD-LTE on 2.1GHz and 1.8Ghz band respectively, so you shouldn’t have any problem using their 3G and 4G data.
Grant says
Thank you so much for the help! Such a great resource!
Dustin says
Hi,
All I would like to know is if China Unicom and/or Telecom also operate on FDD-LTE or TD-LTE which does not seem to be supported by the a1522 Verizon unlocked iPhone6+. I will only be able to use 3G with these networks or can I access 4G LTE?
Russ says
When I’m buying an unlocked iphone 6 from T-mobile online, how do I do which model I’m buying? For example model A1586…
thank you.
Helen says
I am in US, will be back China soon
What is the best iPhone 6 plus mobile for China mobile 4G TD-LTE?
Even if I bought locked iphone 6 plus sprint contract phone, is it work it in China ? China mobile ?
Thanks.
Tuan Do says
Hi Helen,
I answered a similar question above. Let me know if it helps.
Grant says
Hello,
I live in the U.S. but am moving to China and want to buy the A1586 because it seems that it is most compatible. Since you say the US version of the A1586 is un-lockable, should I should wait and buy in HK or Mainland China?
Thanks for the help!
Tuan Do says
Hi Grant,
According to Apple HK, The unlocked iPhone 6 will not work with CDMA-based carriers, so it can be the A1549 (GSM), so you will still have issues using it in China. I will wait until the official release in the next few days to confirm.
okas says
Pls I want to know why d camera for iphone6 designed by Apple in China assemble in China with model A1586 can’t take good pictures at night…. The picture are always dark, not colourful and I don’t like them…pls what should I do?
Sebastian says
I live in Africa and we have LTE band 3 here, I will however be moving to Germany in 2015, they also have band 3, 7, 20. So there is no problem right, it will all be compatible? However here comes the nut to crack, I will be getting my iPhone 6 or 6 Plus (haven’t decided yet) through a friend in Hong Kong. If he buys a 6/6 Plus from a legitimate Apple Store in Hong Kong, which model will they give him? Please let me know for both iPhone and 6 Plus. Thanks in advance.
Tuan Do says
You shouldn’t have any compatibility issue with the new iPhones. According to Apple HK, The unlocked iPhone 6/6 Plus will not work with CDMA-based carriers, so they can be the A1549 (GSM) and A1522 (GSM). But the A1586 and A1524 make more sense. I contacted Apple’s sales team but they don’t have this info yet. I can confirm with you after September 19.
Sebastian says
Well it would be perfect if they only have the GSM models cause they work on almost all GSM networks in the world right? Buying an iphone from Hong Kong is essentially 3500-4500 ZAR (equal to 300-400 US $) cheaper than in my country South Africa. So that would be quite convenient! Thanks for your quick reply! :)
Bastian says
Well it would be perfect if they only have the GSM models cause they work on almost all GSM networks in the world right??? Buying an iphone from Hong Kong is essentially 3500-4500 ZAR (equal to 300-400 US $) cheaper than in my country South Africa. So that would be quite convenient! Thanks for your quick reply!
Tuan Do says
Bastian,
Actually the other versions work on both GSM and CDMA, that’s why I called them world phones in the post.
Sebastian says
Ok thanks for explaining :) will you please let me know after 19 September which model will I get if I buy from Hong Kong Apple Store? Thanks a bunch! :)
Tuan Do says
I guess you will get the iPhone A1524/A1586 in Hong Kong.
Bastian says
Well i guess since these two models are considered the world models, they are the best models on the market? :D so you say I shoukd go for it and get an unlocked 6/6 Plus from Hong Kong? :)
Tuan Do says
Sure,
Go for it if you can.
Alvin Liao says
The unlocked version of 6/6+ in HK should not be the model A1549/A1522 (GSM), it should be A1586/A1524 (GSM). Since A1549 (GSM) doesn’t support TD-LTE, which comprises part of the 4G LTE network of China Mobile HK. And according to local law, unlocked iPhone must be compatible with all networks of all carriers in HK.
Tuan Do says
That’s really weird,
If it is the A1586/A1524, it should work with CDMA-based carriers. Or are they locking the CDMA portion?
I also think the A1586/A1524 will make more sense.
Alvin Liao says
There is no CDMA carrier in HK, so it’s natural that iPhones sold in HK didn’t work with CDMA before. However, it’s possible things may change from iPhone 6/6+. Apple HK website stated that unlocked iPhone will not work with CDMA, which is exactly what they claimed on other region/country’s Apple site. I guess it’s possible that Apple staffs made a mistake in this.
Plus, I heard rumors the reason why China is not among the first group of countries in which 6/6+ are sold is that Apple’s aim to push world phone strategy doesn’t meet what the Chinese government wants: promotes TD-LTE and slow, even minimize the use of FDD-LTE.
Tuan Do says
Thanks for clarification, Alvin
Your point seems valid. I tried to contact Apple sales team around the world but they have no idea what model will be sold, what a shame.
The statement stayed the same since iPhone 5S which has TD-LTE, so we can be confident that the model in Hong Kong is A1524/A1586.
Chris says
I live in the USA, but my family are in the UK and I visit several times a year. In the USA, my phone is on T-Mobile, and in the UK I use EE. If I get the MG542LL/A from Apple store, will it be unlocked and can I use it on LTE in both countries just by switching the SIM card?
Tuan Do says
Yes Chris,
The T-Mobile version is perfectly fine on EE.
Jamie says
Hi
In relation to your response. I am due to be going florida in two weeks, and would like to purchase an iPhone 6. It seems like the carrier free tmobile iPhone is my only option.
Will it work in the UK on EE, and allow me to get their 4g signal?
Many thanks
Jamie
Sunny says
A1522 (CDMA, Verizon version) is compatible with China Unicom and Telecom? Will it work on 3G & 4G in China Unicom and Telecom?
Tuan Do says
Yes it is fully compatible with China Unicom and Telecom. You just can receive 2G on China Mobile.
joel kaplan says
I apologize but i am still not clear.. i have a verizon iphone 6 plus .. is there a carrier in china that supports the A1522 for 4G, LTE or VoLTE? thanks for your confirming.. It is appreciated.
Martin says
Hi Tuan.
I got a quick question, I’m in Canada right now but sometime I travel back to China for vocation.
If I purchase the ip6s in Canada, will I still be able to have access to the 4G network in China if I use the Canadian version?
Thanks!
Tuan Do says
Hi Martin,
What is your wireless carrier in China? Are you buying unlocked version in Canada?
Martin says
Hi Tuan
I’m guess I will be using the china mobile. And for sure, I will buy the unlocked version in an Apple store in Canada.
Alvin Liao says
You can buy an unlocked 6/6+ (A1586/A1524) in Canada? I doubt that.
Tuan Do says
Alvin is correct,
If you are on China Mobile, you should buy the iPhone in China or Hong Kong.
Rita says
Dear Tuan,
If I pre-order UNLOCK iPhone6 in Canada apple store online, which model will be provided by Apple? I did not see any option in the webpage.
Thank you!
Rita says
Dear Tuan,
If I pre-order UNLOCK iPhone6 in Canada apple store online, which model will be provided by Apple?
Is the model same as the one pre-order UNLOCK iPhone6 in HK?
I did not see any option in the webpage.
Thank you!
Tuan Do says
Hi Rita,
You will get the iPhone A1549 and A1522 in Canada.
They are not the same models that you can buy in Hong Kong, the unlocked versions in Hong Kong are A1524 and A1586.
Rita says
Thank you Tuan! So, is the model buy in Canada cannot use in HK and China?
Tuan Do says
Rita,
You just can’t use it on China Mobile.
Jacques says
Living in the US I travel quite a bit for work. I travel all over the US and at times the world. I’d like to buy a 6+ outright and have whichever carrier unlock it. Being that it’s unlocked I’d also like to be able to use it on AT&T or Verizon if I decide to change carriers in the future. Currently I’m with AT&T but service where I live is sometimes not so good (iPhone 5) where Verizon seems to be better everywhere I go. Would you recommend I purchase one of the Verizon 1522 models Example:MGCN2LL/A or MGCN2LL/A? And buying it outright, will I be able to have them unlock it? For use with any carrier? (well, that it has frequencies for) ? Thanks for your help! This has been a great resource!
Tuan Do says
Hi Jacques,
If you can’t get the A1524/A1586, the Verizon version is good enough. It is factory unlocked out of the box either you are on or off contract, so you can use it with most carriers in the States.
Hope it helps.
luis says
Tuan which model will be the best choice to use with att lte in the us and in world with any sim card or factory unlocked thanks.
Tuan Do says
Luis,
All models work great on AT&T. You might need A1586 or A1524 if you travel to China.
luis says
Tuan iphone 6
osokona says
Tuan, does the T-Mobile and AT&T iphone 6 the same one (apart from carrier lock)?
Tuan Do says
Yes,
They are the same model.
Kevin says
Hi!
I live in the Us at the moment, but are going back to Norway. would the unlocked T-mobile phone work (LTE)(4g) in my country
i did not understand. i know Att phones works fine.
Tuan Do says
Hi Kevin,
I’m not sure about carriers in Norway. If AT&T phone works, so does the the unlocked T-Mobile version.
Lawrence says
Hi!
You give me a exact answer. That is awesome!
My friend want buy an iPhone 6 plus in China. He only can use the model A1586 or A1524 ?
But how to distinguish them?
Thank you very much.
Tuan Do says
Hi Lawrence,
A1586 is the iPhone 6 and A1524 is the 6 Plus with bigger screen. You can locate model number on the box or on the back cover.
rohit says
Hi im going to buy iphone 6 from US and i want to use it in india is there any problem
Alvin Liao says
Yes, you will have some issues buying an iPhone in the States and using it in India, for most of the carriers in India deploy TD-LTE as their 4G network. Unfortunately, the iPhone models sold in the US don’t support TD-LTE. You just need to buy an unlocked model, which is either A1586 or A1524, in Hong Kong or Mainland China.
vivek says
I guess A1524 of US model should work in India .. It supports –
38 (TD 2600)
39 (TD 1900)
40 (TD 2300
which will be supported by Airtel in India.
Regards
Vivek
Fullthrottle says
Hi Tuan,
I am from Brazil and will visit US in a few weeks. I think there won’t have the unlocked one till there, Does the T-Mobile contract-free works on Claro in Brazil?
Tuan Do says
Hi,
The T-Mobile version should work fine on Claro.
Fullthrottle says
Hi,
The T-Mobile Contract free is unlocked?
Tuan Do says
Yes,
It is unlocked as long as you buy it at Apple Store.
VR says
T mobile is unlocked if you buy from Apple? No need to wait 60 days and beg them for a code?
Tuan Do says
Yes,
To confirm the info, I contacted an Apple Store and they told me that the contract-free version comes with a T-Mobile SIM card but it is totally unlocked and can be used with any GSM network.
I bought the contract-free iPhone 5S last year at Apple Store and there is no need to unlock at all.
I will try with iPhone 6 in the next few days to make sure. :)
M says
I bought it last year in the United States in the Apple iPhone 5s in the Sprint network. He works in Bosnia and Herzegovina. I paid $ 700. Is it the same now as with T-mobile contract free. Is this phone unlocked in the world and that’s the difference in these models. How to choose which model to buy. Is it possible that the iPhone 6 is now cheaper than 5s? I read that you say that the A1586 best model for Europe? What does it mean?
Andrey says
Hi Tuan,
Did you buy iPhone 6 T-Mobile and tested with other countries carriers ?
Today I called Apple Store support and one lady confirmed that T-Mobile is unlocked and call was disconnected. I called 1hr later and another lady said that is locked for T-Mobile. So Apple Support ladies don’t know clear answers of their products.
I need unlocked to use any carrier as travel a lot when working.
Still looking for confirmation. Also going to contact T-Mobile and double check with them.
Thanks
Nguyễn Quốc Long says
Chào Đỗ Tuấn
Mình vừa nhờ mua Iphone 6 ( model A 1586) của mạng Sprint của Mỹ. Theo mình được biết thì model A 1586 chỉ sử dụng được đối với mạng CDMA. Nhưng ở Việt Nam hiện nay chỉ có mạng GSM. Như vậy máy của mình mang về Việt Nam sẽ không dùng được, đúng không.
Rất mong nhận được lời khuyên của Tuấn.
Trân trọng cám ơn.
N.Q.Long
sucre says
Hi tuan. Hope you will be able to help me I bought my iphone 5 model in the US I’m now leaving in south africa I don’t have a celluar network signal. What is it that I should do?
VR says
So, Tuan Do, does that mean I can just put in my AT&T sim, or any world sim?
Tuan Do says
Sure, VR
Sameer says
Hi i have ordered the T-Mobile(Contract Free) iPhone 6, will LTE work on it in India. would appreciate some help on this!
Tuan Do says
Hi Sameer,
I’m not sure about your carrier and what 4G bands it is using. You can check and compare the specs above to know exactly if it is compatible.
ofee says
Please which iphone6 do I buy dat will work wit my nigeria carrier network like etisalat, Mtn, glo and Airtel….
Alvin Liao says
I am afraid you will have some issues buying an iPhone in the States and using it in India, for most of the carriers in India deploy TD-LTE as their 4G network. Unfortunately, the iPhone models sold in the US don’t support TD-LTE. You just need to buy an unlocked model, which is either A1586 or A1524, in Hong Kong or Mainland China.
Rahul says
hey buddy can you tell me how much money did you spend to get it..bcoz i’m also getting iphone 6 model 15286 gsm…plz do tell …i’ll appreciate it
Kimmy To says
Hi Tuan,
I live in the Us but my relatives r in Vietnam..so what iphone 6 and 6 plus version should i buy when traveling back to VN??? I checked with the Apple rep..n they said their international version will be released fee months later. I also came to a Tmobile store asking if their new Iphone 6 & 6 plus r unlocked…they said they r locked n only be ulocked after 3 months…some of my friends told me to preorder Verizon. .but verizon uses CDMA network….now im confused…
Tuan Do says
Hi Kimmy,
You can be confident buying the iPhone 6/6 Plus. Both contract-free and Verizon versions work great in Vietnam. The Verizon iPhone is compatible with both CDMA and GSM networks. As popular carriers in Vietnam like Viettel or Mobifone are operating on GSM, both of the versions are perfectly fine.
Just make sure you bought the contract-free T-Mobile version at Apple Store, otherwise, you can be locked to T-Mobile for at least 40 days. I used the T-Mobile iPhone 5S in Vietnam and it is totally compatible.
Hope it helps.
Ti Hoang says
Hi a Tuan,
I just bought a contract free AT&T ip6+ several hours ago..Is it impossible to use in Vietnam? Cause I bought for my father in Vn.
Thanks,
Ti
Tuan Do says
Hi Ti,
You’d better buy the T-Mobile contract-free version on Apple Store. You will have to unlock the AT&T version if you want to use it in Vietnam.
Sue says
I have an exchange student from China. He wants to purchase an iPhone 6 but I am not sure which one will work for him when he gets back to China next year.
Tuan Do says
Hi Sue,
I answered a similar question above. Check it out and let me know if it solves your problem.
Kimmy says
Thanks so much for the reply Tuan. :) :)It does help clearing out all the confusion!!! Apple and Tmobile associates dunt even know their own products….
Have a great day!!
Mark says
Hello Tuan,
I am visiting the US next month and I want to buy an iPhone 6 plus to use back in the UK on the Three.co.uk network. Which model should i get the T-Mobile version? A?
Do you think having a US phone in the UK will cause any restrictions with other features on the phone such as that for internet or apple pay for example?
Thanks in advance
Mark
Tuan Do says
Mark,
Technically the T-Mobile version is compatible with all bands being offered by 3 UK. Just check again with your carrier if they allow to bring your own device.
To answer your 2nd question, the iPhones sold in US and UK are basically the same model and there shouldn’t be any restriction.
Best,
Tuan
Chris says
Hi, I’m also visiting the US next month and wondering what US iPhone to buy for use with the Three network in the UK. From what I understand, the A1586 model is unavailable to buy outright (contract free) in the US. So the only options I have are the A1549 model (GSM) and the A1549 model (CDMA). Will both these versions work with Three UK now and in the future? If I walk into an Apple store in the US and request a contract free T-mobile iPhone 6, which model will I get? Do I get a choice? Does it matter (for use with Three UK)?
Is it true that other than network locking, the only difference between the A1586 and the A1549 is 4 bands? (listed below)
38 (TD 2600)
39 (TD 1900)
40 (TD 2300)
41 (TD 2500)
https://www.apple.com/iphone/LTE/
Will missing these bands have an impact in the UK?
Can/will this be fixed in future with an official update/unlock?
is it true that network locking in the US will have no affect in the UK?
Many Thanks
Chris
Arsenio says
If I want to be able to switch from att to T-Mobile to verizon can I buy the att model since they all have the same model number or should I buy the Verizon model? Thanks.
Tuan Do says
You should get a Verizon model as it’s compatible with all those carriers.
Bill says
Hi Tuan. I am supposed to buy iPhone 6 for my friend in Korea. Which model is best ? In Korea some carriers are CDMA based, some are GSM based.
I got burned once before, when I bought Verizon’s iPhone 5, and then tried to use that with T-mobile. Well, it could only work with 3G data with T-mobile, not LTE, because T-moble is GSM based and my iPhone was for CDMA.
So my question is, which iPhone 6 model would work with both CDMA or GSM based carrier in Korea, without data speed degradation ?
Thanks!!
Bill says
I’m guessing I should buy Model A1586 (GSM) for GSM-based carrier in Korea, or Model A1586 (CDMA) for CDMA-based carrier in Korea. Am I correct ?
Tuan Do says
Bill,
There was a huge improvement in wireless connectivity since iPhone 5S. Now you can use Verizon iPhone 5S or iPhone 6/6 Plus on most major carriers in the States. The Verizon model works on both CDMA and GSM now. That’s great if you can get the A1586 there.
I searched for some carriers in Korea and their 4G bands are totally covered (4G LTE KT 900/1800Mhz; 4G LTE SK Telecom 850/1800Mhz; 4G LTE LG U+ 850/2100Mhz).
Andzhey says
Hello Tuan,
I visit the US next month, and I want to buy iPhone 6 plus contract-free T-Mobile for use in Russia, will it work and will not have any problems with LTE ?
Oliver says
Hi. One clarifying question. I have a iPhone 5 in korea on KT mobile. Can I pop my SIM card into the t Mobile
Unlocked gsm and have it work? Do I need new sim from carrier?
Aaron says
Tuan,
Will the T-mobile iPhone 6 work on the South Korean cell network? I read your reply to Bill’s questions but still a little confused.
Fion says
Hi Tuan,
I am from Singapore and want to buy iphone6 from apple online store later. I need one model which can use in Singapore and in China ( Unicom and Telecom) as well. I heard that i have to get Model 1586*, and I was wondering how to choose the Model which placing my order online??? As i can remember, we are not able to choose Model while placing order online. Please advise. Thanks.
Tuan Do says
Hi Fion,
When you buy the iPhone at Apple Store, you will receive the iPhone 6 A1586 or iPhone 6 Plus A1524. You can use it on any carrier in Singapore or China.
Carol says
Hi Tuan,
I read from the above article that iPhone 6 A1586 or iPhone 6+ A1524 are sell locked to CDMA carrier in US, must we unlock it to use in Singapore?
If we need to unlock it, how do we do that?
Thanks
Carol
Carol says
Hi Tuan,
Do we need to unlock the iPhone 6 A1586 or iPhone 6+ A1524 we buy in US in order for us to use them in Singapore? How do we do it if necessary?
Thanks
Carol
Carol says
Hi Tuan,
Will iPhone 6 A1586 or iPhone 6+ A1524 we buy in US be locked for use in Singapore?
Thanks
Carol
Carol says
Hi Tuan,
I though iPhone 6 A1586 or iPhone 6+ A1524 comes with contract? If we want to buy one without contract & use them in Singapore, which model should we buy?
Thanks
Carol
Ted says
If I buy the T-mobile Iphone 6+ in the USA, will I be able to use it in Singapore?
jace says
Hi, and thank you for your blog.
I’m wondering if the models sold in France are really different.
For example : MGAJ2ZD/A which is the 6+ 64Go Silver
I’ll be in the US within a month and I wanted to get one there.
But all the informations provided here show that the T-Mobile Contract free version sold in the USA won’t be fully compatible with the French bands.
Am I missing something?
Thanks
Tuan Do says
Hi Jace,
I’ve just checked the specs of MGAJ2ZD/A, this seems to be the A1549 (GSM). I see that carriers in France are using LTE bands 3,7 and 20, so you shouldn’t have any problem using it there.
jace says
I didn’t make myself clear enough, sorry.
Yes, the MGAJ2ZD/A works fine in France, it’s the one sold here.
I wanted to buy an unlocked and contract free iPhone 6+ 64 GB in the US that’s also fully compatible with the French 4G LTE bands.
And my guess is that none of the models sold in the US Apple Store meets these requirements. Am I right?
Thanks
Tuan Do says
Jace,
The contract-free version in the U.S. is fully compatible with French carriers.
Franc says
hi,
I ll be in USA in a few days. I want to buy a iphone 6 and use it in ARGENTINA.
Do you know if the T – mobile offered in Apple.com is compatible?
When the Factory unlocked will released?
thanks
René says
Hi
What model is the contract free tele mobile sold in the US apple store?
René
Tuan Do says
That’s the A1549 (GSM)
Stefanos says
Hi Tuan,
I live in Greece and I am wondering if the contract free iphone 6 edition will work fine with the greek carriers. Will there be any differences with the iphone 6 models that are going to be selled here in the future? As long for the 4g speed would it operate well here?
Thanks in advance
Eugene says
Hi Tuan,
If i buy the iphone 6 from T-mobile and get it unlocked after 90 days.can i bring it back to singapore and still be able to use?
Eugene says
Hi Tuan,
This is the specs i copied from one of singapore carrier.”4G LTE service operates on 1800MHz and 2600MHz spectrum. Hence, some overseas 4G LTE mobile devices may not be compatible with our 4G network”.so base on this,which iphone 6 model can i get if i am buying from USA and later bringing to singapore.
Giulio says
Hi Tuan,
I live in Hong Kong and will be travelling shortly to the US.
At the moment its very hard to buy any iPhone in HK as they have exusted supply or there are daily quotas and everyone is trying to buy here to sell in China.
I want to buy a 6 and 6+ [for me and my wife] in the US and bring it back to HK. In HK I currently use Smartone but I’m not tied to them and could change to any of the local carriers.
Can I buy a US iPhone to use here?
Thank you for your help.
Giulio
Tuan Do says
Sure you can use the US contract-free iPhone 6/6 Plus but your 4G LTE connection is limited to some carriers in Hong Kong. You might need to switch to Hutchison.
George Zhang says
i live in Los Angles , you can walk into Any Apple Store in the US and buy any two each time . Tmobile contract free is the choice for you , Apple store said Verizon doesn’t work in China, double check before you buy
Justin says
I feel bad for people dumb enough to buy that garbage Sprint model. Worst carrier in the country, and the only one that locks their phones with no ability to unlock after contract completion. Please Sprint, do the world a favor and go bankrupt.
Tuan Do says
According to FCC, all carriers including Sprint will have to unlock their phones starting February 11, 2015. They can’t lock the phone after contract completion anymore.
Justin says
Wow, really? Didn’t know that. Where did you hear this? If it’s true that’s great news. It’s insane there are carriers who lock out-of-contract phones. These are OUR phones, we should have the right to use them on whatever carriers we want!
Tuan Do says
It is on FCC website, you might want to read this: http://www.fcc.gov/device-unlocking-faq
Both prepaid and postpaid phones have to be unlocked.
Francesco says
Hi Tuan.
I’m thinking about asking a friend of mine to buy me an iPhone 6 Plus in USA, obviously unlocked (only T-Mobile, isn’t it?). My question is: will it works in Italy?
Tuan Do says
Francessco,
I’ve just checked the 3 Italy carrier and the T-Mobile version is totally compatible.
Hope it helps.
michelle says
Hi, I will buy unlocked A1524 iphone 6 plus in Canada. Can it be used in China under China mobile, China unicom and China Telecom (CDMA network)?
Tuan Do says
Yes it will work. How can you buy the A1524 in Canada?
michelle says
I am not sure. If not possible, can unlocked A1522 be used under China mobile, China unicom and China Telecom (CDMA network)? If it is not working for three of them, which one will be working?
Asik says
Hi tuan
Is iphone 6 plus contract free t mobile model no A1524?
Tuan Do says
No, it is the A1522 (GSM) in the US
Ash says
Hi Tuan Do,
I am a UK resident with the 02 network.
I’m going Canada and will be getting the iPhone 6.
I have two questions please:
Which iPhone model do I need for it to run on 02s 4g (LTE) frequency here? 02 have told me it’s 800mhz, 1800 and 1900. Is that correct?
I will be ordering through apple Canada website while there, how will I know they are sending me the right model?
Also, once back in the UK will the apple guarantee apply and will the apple stores here service my phone if anything goes wrong?
Many thanks!
Tuan Do says
Ash,
The Canada is selling A1549 and A1522. The version is compatible with all bands O2 UK is offering.
Apple has global warranty for its products, so you can use the service at any Apple Store.
Hope it helps.
Jim Li says
Hi Tuan,
Thank you for the great information!
I’m currently using T-Mobile in US. From your analyze and Apple’s spec page, My understanding is:
1) iPhone 6 CDMA versions have everything GSM versions have, so if I buy unlocked Verizon version, I should be able to use it with T-Mobile and have full 4G-LTE support.
2) Because Verizon version has both CDMA and GSM, I will have the best international support iPhone can offer when I travel to other countries.
Am I right?
Where do you think I can buy a full-price unlocked Verizon version? It seems Apple online store doesn’t have this option.
Thanks!
Tuan Do says
You are completely right.
You can buy that version at Verizon but you might have to wait a few weeks.