IPhone 3G- Can I buy it but only pay for just the internet but not for phone service?

Question

Can I use the iPhone as an iPod Touch? Meaning can I only pay for the internet fee and not activate any phone service. I am moving to Japan and want to buy a Japanese cell phone but also want to use the iPhone for the internet. I like the iPhone's interface better. Thanks!!

Answer 1

You CAN do what you are trying to do, but you'd have to buy the iPhone from someone other than Apple or ATT because when you get it from them you have to get the cellular service at same time.

Try checking craiglist or something for someone selling an unlocked iPhone, just be careful who you buy from and make sure you pick it up in person and test the iphone to ensure it works right.

Only real advantage that I see an iPhone having over an iPod Touch is the built in camera and speaker. aside from that, i'd buy the iPod Touch if i were you.

FYI, for those folks who travel a lot and want high speed "3G" internet access while on the road for their laptops or their gadgets like an Apple iPhone or iPod Touch, or a Sony PSP/Mylo/PS3, or Nintendo Wii/DS or Nokia 770/800/810 tablet, an Archos 605 WiFi, or even the Chumby... take a look at this article:

http://www.evdoinfo.com/ipodtouch

its also a good way to get "3G" speeds on any iPhone! and faster than AT&T!

Answer 2

I've got myself a 3G iPhone at this site, also bought a nice case for it there...Take a look, it might get you an answer.

http://buy-3g-iphone.com

Regards, Ivan

Answer 3

Thats a stupid idea dude i would just get a ipod touch youll have to pay monthly anyway for the iphone internet

Answer 4

You're better just getting an ipod touch. I had the same predicament, i went for the touch a week ago and i love it.  I have a n95 anyway, so a iphone would be a downgrade for me. If you insist on having the iphone for it's 3g capabilities and not just wireless, you would have to buy it without contract, which will set you back a lot more money.

Answer 5

Buy an iphone touch.  That way you'll get the free internet.

I have an iphone and have moved abroad and unlocked it.  I do not get free access to cloud hotspots any more