Why Are Cell Phones Locked | The Real Reasons

http://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/phone-unlocking-guide-for-all-carriers/

What is a locked phone and why do carriers lock them?

Confused about locked vs. unlocked phones? Ask Maggie explains

How to Unlock Your Cell Phone (So You Can Bring It to a New Carrier)

All US carriers now required to unlock off-contract cell phones - ExtremeTech

Locked vs. Unlocked Cell Phones | Smart Mobile Phone Solutions

Cell Phone Freedom Act - Wikipedia

Why do carriers lock the cell phones they sell you.

Technology

Comments

To Make It More Difficult To Switch Carriers

They dont want people to switch carriers.

They Feel Like They Own Part Of My Phone

Carriers are selling smartphones with MSRP of $599 - $799.

There would normally be a 33% - 40% markeup for the reseller of electronic equiptment. The carrier forgoes this profit and also kicks in some more subsidy in order to sell you a smart phone for a very low price of around $199.