Some of you have mentioned it is a good idea to get an unlocked GSM phone here in the states to bring with me when I move, instead of buying one in BA. I just want a basic phone that will call and text, and won't break on me after one month, but I don't want to pay for a data plan for email/internet/etc. (Too expensive.) I'll be doing pay-as-you-go, probably with Movistar since that sounds like the most reliable provider right now.
I'm tech savvy but not a phone expert, so can you help me with any of these questions that I'm getting stuck on?
1) If I get one here in the US, what specs does the phone need to have in order for it to work in BA & the rest of South America? (I think it has to be Tri or Quad band? And it has to take a SIM card, right? Are some phones not able to be unlocked, and some are?)
2) What are the benefits of bringing an unlocked phone versus just buying a cheap regular (locked) phone from Movistar when I get there?
3) Which brand/model of phone would you recommend I buy in the US, if I end up doing it? Ideally I'll buy one that is pre-owned, to save money, so it doesn't need to be cutting-edge...
Thank you in advance for your tips. I can't tell you how helpful it is to have your advice as I get ready to come there!
I'm tech savvy but not a phone expert, so can you help me with any of these questions that I'm getting stuck on?
1) If I get one here in the US, what specs does the phone need to have in order for it to work in BA & the rest of South America? (I think it has to be Tri or Quad band? And it has to take a SIM card, right? Are some phones not able to be unlocked, and some are?)
2) What are the benefits of bringing an unlocked phone versus just buying a cheap regular (locked) phone from Movistar when I get there?
3) Which brand/model of phone would you recommend I buy in the US, if I end up doing it? Ideally I'll buy one that is pre-owned, to save money, so it doesn't need to be cutting-edge...
Thank you in advance for your tips. I can't tell you how helpful it is to have your advice as I get ready to come there!