[Steve Viegas]

I don't know if you want an unlocked phone or not. Unlocked means that it is not tied to a specific carrier. Certain carriers use similar frequencies though and while a phone may be able to operate on multiple carriers, it will likely not be able to work on all. A phone that works on Verizon, for example will only work on Verizon, even it if it unlocked (but this has to do with their media access protocol).

Anyway, if you want an unlocked phone, then it will allow you to connect to a variety of carriers. If you are looking for a phone to continue your same service under, or a way to get service without a contract, then you are likely looking to purchase an unsubsidized phone. Again, you likely will want to pick your carrier, but now you do not need to extend your service for a contract period.

I hope that helped.