Will my U.S. handset function as an international cell phone?
Verizon and Sprint use CDMA technology, which is incompatible with GSM networks used in much of the world. If you have a service with GSM networks T-Mobile and AT&T Wireless then you might be in luck if you have a World Phone, otherwise known as a tri-brand (or quad-band) phone. However, if you have a dual-band handset operating on the standard U.S. 850/1900 MHz frequencies, you won’t find a signal in Europe. You will need to upgrade to a handset that works on the International 900/1800 MHz frequencies. So I have a World Phone—Am I set to go? Most phones sold by GSM providers are locked. Carriers do this intentionally so that the discounted handsets they provide can’t be easily switched over to a rival company’s SIM card. That also applies to International SIM cards. The simple solution is to call up your provider and ask for their help in unlocking your phone—they are usually accommodating for a small fee. If you don’t have a tri-band phone and must source a new handset for your trip
