Originally Posted by
gfunkdave
There are a few different ways, none of them ideal. Apple is very good at making sure that only carriers can unlock iPhones.
The most common way is to jailbreak the phone and unlock it. Jailbreaking is the process whereby you take advantage of bugs in the operating system to wrest control away from Apple. This allows you to install apps that Apple hasn't approved - including apps that can remove the SIM card lock.
Not sure what physical changes the guy you talk to had in mind -perhaps something like the Gevey SIM.
Another option for your son would be to get a cheaper Android phone. Android is functionally equivalent to iOS and you can get an Android phone for less that would do the same things that an iPhone can. Just a thought - an unlocked iPhone from Apple starts around $700 I think.
OK, so following your advice, and googling around, I think I figured out the details of how to do what you suggest:
1. Jailbreak by using a program such as jailbreakme.
2. Install Cydia
3. Install an app such as UltraSn0w
4. The phone should be unlocked and ready for the Italian SIM.
5. No need for the Gevey SIM card?
Does this sound right? Is there a risk of "bricking" (a term I just learned) by doing this? The material I read about jailbreakme claims that there is no danger of bricking as you can restore the phone anytime.
Thanks