Act For Change is calling on consumers to write Apple’s Steve Jobs to free the new iPhone from locking in exclusively with ATT as the sole provider. I agree and think it’s a really bad deal for consumers and a bad precedent for democracy, especially considering ATT’s track record with civil liberties. Monopoly cell contracts have been the bane of my existence and to many around the world. It is disappointing that Apple will contribute further to this uncouth business model. Sign the petition here, and read below for more details.

Take Action: Tell Steve Jobs: Unlock the iPhone!:

On Friday June 29, Apple will release the iPhone, with 3 million units available — seemingly more than enough to match the endless hype. However, if you want to purchase one, you’ll be stuck using it on AT&T. It doesn’t matter that the iPhone could work on other networks — Apple refuses to let that happen.

The iPhone uses technology (known as GSM) that should allow it to work on other wireless networks, including overseas. But Apple has configured the iPhone so you’re forced to use it on AT&T. An iPhone purchased in the U.S. will only work on the AT&T network, regardless of what SIM card is placed in it — it cannot be taken to another GSM network such as T-Mobile.

So, if you’re interested in an iPhone but are turned off by AT&T’s corporate policies — such as turning consumers’ information over to the National Security Agency without warrants, their efforts to wipe out net neutrality, or the close-to-100% Republican giving of their new chairman — you’re out of luck.

It is in fact perfectly legal, according to a recent decision from the U.S. Register of Copyrights, for American consumers to unlock their phones for use on whatever network they would like. Apple is trying to take away that right by locking the iPhone to AT&T’s network.

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