[CutYourSim] Permanent Alternative to Unlock the iPhone?

There has been a lot of chatter recently about a new permanent unlock solution for the Apple iPhone 4 and other iPhone models. It works pretty much like any other standard cell phone unlocking service — you pay a fee and send over your IMEI, and a code is then generated that you input into your device. 

However, with Apple, things don’t quite work that way. The unlocking is done directly through iTunes, and while we’re not sure how third parties are adding IMEIs to Apple’s system, we have confirmed first-hand that the service does work flawlessly. Of note: just as someone can add an IMEI to the database to whitelist your iPhone, it can also be removed just as easily, which will then re-lock your iPhone as soon as it’s connected to iTunes. Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment

CutYourSim is offering a permanent and "legit" remote unlock for any iPhone on any carrier for $169.99.

"We are now able to offer the first permanent remote iPhone unlocking solution. It is very easy, and can be done with three simple steps.

Our turnaround time is typically anywhere from 2-5 days for the iPhone. It may be quicker, but please expect this time frame.

The solution we offer is a permanent solution. Jailbreaking, or unauthorized hacks are NOT required. This unlock will carry on forever, you can now update your phone to the newest version without worrying about waiting for an unauthorized unlock to be released.

The unlock will work with any iPhone version, and any baseband version, no need to worry about updating to the latest version anymore, your phone will be unlocked forever!!!!!

We offer great support, we will help you with the unlocking process with our outstanding support response time. Buy with confidence!

100% Guaranteed to Work! This method is 100% Guaranteed, and the only time we will offer a refund is if you provide video proof that the phone did not get permanetly unlocked with our method.

This does NOT affect your warranty status, because this is an official iPhone unlock.
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Chronic tweets, "it's actually legit, they are somehow whitelisting the IMEIs, not totally sure how it works... iPhone is being repaired now so can't test, but I know @CutYourSim is legit thru past dealings. I'm positive his unlock offerings are legit."

MuscleNerd notes, "The well-established online unlockers for other cellphone brands are suddenly today selling iPhone unlocks..obviously something opened up. This "grey market" access into Apple's database has been around (in the UK for instance) for a while, but typically only brick&mortar stores"

Update:

Which services are offering the permanent unlock?
People are using these four services on the internet -
Negri Electronics ($174.50)
Supper Paddy ($175)
Cut Your SIM ($169.99)
Official Unlocks ($180)

Why should you try these services?

• If you’re ready to pay the above charges, go ahead.
• It’s an official unlock. (We’re not sure about it.)
• It doesn't void the warranty of iPhone devices. (Again, not sure.)
• You don’t need any jailbreak tool.
• It works on iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS and iPhone 4.
• Turnaround time is fast.
• Those who have used it are satisfied with the results.

Note: Try it at your own risk!

[via][via]