Taiwan could source ‘grey market’ iPhones

iPhones from Taiwan could be sold on the international ‘grey’ market after users discovered no SIM-lock on the handset.

The 3G iPhone has only just made it to Taiwan, and as in all other countries, it is only available on one network – Chunghwa Telecom (CHT).

CHT said the iPhones would be SIM-locked to only work on the CHT network.

SIM-locking is standard practice around the world with iPhones, and is usually demanded by iPhone maker Apple.

However, users in Taiwan have found that SIM cards from other networks – including international carriers – are fully functional inside iPhones distributed by CHT.

The only limit when using a non-CHT SIM is lack of access to CHT’s Hami value added internet services.

However, international customers wanting to buy an unlocked iPhone from Taiwan will pay a hefty premium on standard iPhone prices.

CHT charges NT$26,600 ($800) for the 8GB iPhone 3G and NT$29,900 for the 16GB model.