: If you choose to finance your iPhone specifically through an AT&T Installment Plan at the time of purchase, the device will arrive locked to AT&T.
In almost every case, purchasing an iPhone directly from an or apple.com guarantees you receive an unlocked device . This "factory unlocked" status means the phone is not restricted to a specific network and can be used with any compatible carrier worldwide.
: It will remain locked for the entire term of the installment agreement (typically 36 months) until the device is fully paid off.