SEOUL (dpa-AFX) - Samsung Electronics Co. (SSNLF.OB, SSNNF.OB, SMSN.L) has launched network unlocked versions of the Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge in the U.S., giving customers the freedom to choose their plans, switch carriers and avoid pre-installed carrier apps.
Starting today, the unlocked phones will work on most U.S. GSM and CDMA networks. The phones will be available for purchase direct from Samsung, or retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Ebay, Sam's Club, and Target.
The devices are also available from four distributors, including Ingram Micro Inc., Synnex Corporation, Tech Data, and Vertex Wireless.
On Samsung.com, the unlocked Galaxy S7 is available at $669.99, while the unlocked Galaxy S7 edge is priced at $769.99.
Tim Baxter, president of Samsung Electronics America said, 'The unlocked Galaxy S7 and S7 edge offer more U.S. customers a way to join the Galaxy family, giving them access to a portfolio of seamless mobile experiences including connectivity to wearables, making payments right from your phone and even virtual reality worlds.'
The unlocked versions will enable customers to change carrier at will and also come free of carrier apps. Customers of the unlocked phones can choose whether they want Samsung's calculator, email, internet browser, or other apps to be installed on their devices.
The unlocked versions of the S7 and S7 Edge being sold in the U.S. have the same hardware features as their carrier-locked counterparts. They are also water as well as dust resistant, and feature fast wired and wireless charging, Always-On Display, and Samsung KNOX.
Customers will also have access to Samsung applications and services like Samsung Pay, Samsung+ and the ability to explore 360-degree content through Samsung Gear VR, in addition to full manufacturer warranties.
This is not the first time that Samsung is offering unlocked versions of its phones in the U.S. Last year, the company offered an unlocked version of the Galaxy S6 for sale in its online store.
Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX