“Why is it $139.99 more to purchase the phone and have it locked to AT&T than to just purchase it unlocked from Best Buy?”
Answer This Question
1-2 of 2 Answers
In addition to what Scott mentioned, the AT&T/Verizon phones also support mmWave signal which the unlocked ones don't. Hence the price difference. See the table on g.co/pixel/networkinfo. You will be able to see the difference. Buy the phone directly from AT&T if you don't mind the installment plan over 3 years and you'll get it for $15/month for 36 months. That adds up to $540 but ties you to AT&T. For me personally WiFi calling is a must because many places don't have good cellular coverage indoors and the ability to not make WiFi calling is a deal breaker. Go with whatever suits your need.
Sorry, there was a problem. Please try again later.If it's anything like previous Pixels, only the AT&T version will give you wifi calling and HD calling functionality. If neither of those is important to you, and you don't need the payments spread over 3 years on your bill, then get the unlocked version. Now the limitations I mentioned may no longer be the case, and it may now just be AT&T trying to squeeze money out of people who have to rely on carrier financing for a new phone, but I do know Pixel 4 owners were having that issue.
Sorry, there was a problem. Please try again later.