PORTLAND, OR, United States – Nokia has long sold mobile phones that allow consumers to have choice and openness. Unlocked devices make you able to utilize your device wherever you decide to go and not to worry about compatibility, connectivity and other silliness.

In Europe, consumer choice reigns when it comes to mobile communications in a way we don’t have here in the United States. In France, UK, Spain and other European countries, mobile phones are typically sold unlocked and can be moved between carriers by just swapping out a SIM card.

Also, because Europe mainly uses two main frequencies – 2100 and 900Mhz – phones bought on one network can be utilized interchangeably between carriers. However, because of many factors here in the United States, it’s a very different situation.

Unfortunately for American mobile consumers, there is a key element that frustrates us no end. Phones bought on our major carriers cannot be easily swapped between networks. So, for example, if you buy a phone on T-Mobile USA, you cannot use the device to it’s full potential should you decide to switch to AT&T.

This is because of carriers and the fact that they utilize different spectrum ranges for 3G data connections. T-Mobile USA uses 1700Mhz and AT&T utilizes a blend of 850 and 1900 Mhz. This minor difference leads to confusion because while voice and SMS traffic will work just fine, the highly desired 3G data connection won’t work on most phones when going between carriers here in the US.

That is, unless, you have a recent phone from Nokia. The latest batch of phones out of Nokia feature are pentaband WCDMA devices, meaning the Nokia N8 and E7 both feature the 850/900/1700/1900/2100 Mhz ranges. So, no matter whether you are a T-Mobile or AT&T customer, using one of these devices from Nokia means you will have high-speed data connections on either mobile network.

Also, should you decide to travel to internationally to Europe or other regions of the world, if you’re armed with the N8 or E7, you’re also covered as your beloved mobile device will work marvelously on the 900 and 2100 Mhz bands, offering full 3G goodness.

Whether you’re a traveler who likes to have options when you choose a carrier in the United States, or perhaps a pre-paid customer who doesn’t want to buy a phone that pigeon-holes you into one specific carrier, these Nokia models are a fantastic choice. The Nokia N8 will cater to anyone looking to grab sharp images and video as it is a multi-media powerhouse. The newly released E7 is a business person’s dream device that features a 4-inch touch screen with slide-out keyboard.

Is unlocked freedom a factor that sways your smartphone buying decision?

image credit: losmininos