The iPhone 4S is what’s called a world phone. Apple has officially announced that starting November 2011 they will offer unlocked versions (contract-free) of iPhone 4s.

Unlocked iPhones 4S will work only on HSPA networks, no support yet for Sprint and Verizon’s CDMA networks. The good thing is that you can take your phone around the world and use it with pre-paid microSIM card and use without worries. Most international mobile carriers support HSPA network as well as microSIM and it means that you will be able to save money by using local mobile operator services.

Obviously prices are much higher than with 2 year contract but they feel reasonable if you are traveling a lot and want to be free of contract obligations The iPhone 4S prices in US without contract are as fallowing $649 for the 16GB model, $749 for the 32GB and $849 for the 64GB.

The iPhone 4S price internationally starting at £499(€580) for the 16GB model in black or white, £599(€700) for 32GB or a whopping £699(€800) for the 64GB version. Internationally you can get new iPhone 4S without contract right away, but all those in US will have to wait till November.

The question is: would you rather spend at least $649 and be free of contract commitment? Or would you rather be get it cheaper upfront and be tied to pay thousands of dollars over a two year period?