Unlocking iPhone for use in Russia?

I currently live in Russia, but will be coming home to America in July to visit, and am thinking of buying a new iPhone when I'm there.

I currently have an iPhone 4s that works in Russia (not in America of course) because it has a Russian sim card in it.

Is it really impossible to use an iPhone if it's not unlocked? The unlocked ones are so much more expensive. Is it expensive/problematic to have a phone unlocked?

Any recommendations on my best option?

Yes. 2 things: 1. You want an unlocked iPhone to use back in Russia. Why? Unlocked means it hasn't been locked for use on a certain carrier in a certain country. The radio bands inside are open for use with any sim or carrier you choose. That's why they are very expensive. Honestly that's the true full price of the phone. 2. If you do buy used make sure it's legit and has a clean valid, serial number (IMEI) and also does NOT have the old user's iCloud account still on there. That's a security feature that is virtually impossible to remove and renders the phone useless-unlocked or not. Consider selling/trading in the 4s on the sale when you get here to cut down some of the dollar amount. And try to activate for back home while you are here if possible. Be careful in your search and you'll be fine. Best luck.

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