Network Locked Phone

Usually get my phones from exCellular and I see they don't list the X2-02 in their catalogue, maybe the locking legislation we think exists doesn't apply to phones only available from the networks?

Be good to have some clarity on this legislation assuming it exists.
 
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MickZA said:
Usually get my phones from exCellular and I see they don't list the X2-02 in their catalogue, maybe the locking legislature we think exists doesn't apply to phones only available from the networks?

Be good to have some clarity on this legislation assuming if it exists.
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ICASA gazetted draft regulations to prevent networks from locking their phones, MTN were the only ones to have an issue with this as far as I can find from the responses issued by the networks. Can't find anywhere that states that the draft regulations were actually passed.
 
Aharon said:
100% - I wanted to use 8ta and Vodacom...

I'll keep this thread updated with any / all news as it materialises.

Any additional info / advice always appreciated
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Did you manage to get the phone unlocked?
 
Sadly not - I couldnt ask more shops or people at the call centre. Nobody knew what i was talking about :(
 
I was under the impression that devices could no longer be locked based on past ICASA legislation, I'm too surprised by this. Did any of the documents / conditions prior to your purchase state the device would be locked ? I assume this would have to be the case in terms of the CPA?
 
more importantly was the phone purchased on contract or prepaid - the suggestion that it was bought at Ackermans makes me suspect it is prepaid. MTN alleges that they network lock contract phones for the duration of the contract of 24 months - thats in their FAQ - if it is prepaid lodge a complaint with MTN and then lodge a complaint with ICASA.
 
Mine was a prepaid at Edgars. MTN says it's not illegal. I tried giving ICASA a call but they proved impossible. Edgars however refunded the purchase because the sales person told me it was unlocked.
 
Aharon said:
MTN - It's a dual sim phone. It has the promary sim under the battery and the secondary sim on the side of the phone. You can put anything in the side sim slot but as soon as you put anything but MTN in the primary sim slot it locks and asks for a restriction code.
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I thought South Africa was not allowed dual-card sims?
 
As this problem comes over again, I suggest to check immediately after purchase if phone is network locked by inserting a SIM for another network. If it is prepaid, use CPA and return the phone saying, you haven't heen informed that phone was network locked. They can't sell the same package as a new one, if they get many returns they will have to adjust.
 
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