I don't know why there is so much confusion on this thread. Untill Apple store started selling phone retail in the US WITHOUT CONTRACT the only way to buy one was to get in on contract from Apple/ AT&T/Airtel/Vodaphone etc or get it from ebay/craigslist from someone who's breaking contract etc.
Another alternative was to get it unlocked from countries where iPhone is selling unlocked but these are usually super expensive like $900-1000
In India unless you are buying airtel/vodaphone or getting an unlocked phone from say Hong Kong, you will have to unlock the phone to use it on your network. Previously most versions were unlockable but now new verson 3.1.3 software there is some delay but it will be out.
Currently the cheapest way to get a 3GS is to wait for 3.1.3 unlock and get a friend to pick it up from Apple store US for $599 plus taxes. 3G is available for $499, and 3GS 32GB for $699.
This was previously not possible just 2 months ago, so all the process of getting a friend to buy it on contract in US, then break contract and pay etf or pick it up from craigslist is unnecessary.
Another alternative was to get it unlocked from countries where iPhone is selling unlocked but these are usually super expensive like $900-1000
In India unless you are buying airtel/vodaphone or getting an unlocked phone from say Hong Kong, you will have to unlock the phone to use it on your network. Previously most versions were unlockable but now new verson 3.1.3 software there is some delay but it will be out.
Currently the cheapest way to get a 3GS is to wait for 3.1.3 unlock and get a friend to pick it up from Apple store US for $599 plus taxes. 3G is available for $499, and 3GS 32GB for $699.
This was previously not possible just 2 months ago, so all the process of getting a friend to buy it on contract in US, then break contract and pay etf or pick it up from craigslist is unnecessary.