Exactly, its a horrible policy. I can't believe it even exists. Imagine if Gas companies lock you into using only certain brands of cars. OR If your computer comes locked with Comcast internet access only!

Makes perfect sense. What if the gas company knocked 3/4th off the cost of the car but you could only buy their gas at an inflated rate? Same thing. After buying an unlocked phone at full price and using a pre-paid plan, I am never going back to the "buy the phone from the wireless carrier" plan. I am saving a ton of money, can easily use it internationally and I can easily resell the phone when I upgrade.

Or, you know, just buy an unlocked phone.

Not too hard. Of course, if you want the latest bells and whistles you'll have to pay, but it's not hard to get a phone for cheap.