Unlocked Galaxy S8 and S8+ are available for pre-order in the US
B&H is now taking pre-orders for the unlocked versions of the Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8+. As you may know, the two flagships are officially hitting the shelves today in the US and many other countries, but only the carrier-locked variants are currently available for purchase in the States.
The store has put a hefty price tag on the pair. The smaller 64 GB Galaxy S8 goes for $829.99, while the larger S8+ with the same amount of internal storage is at $929.99. Shipping is set to commence at the "beginning of May", which is quite early. Last year, the unlocked Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge didn't show up in the US until June.
Best Buy will also sell unlocked variants of Samsung's 2017 flagship duo. The retail chain will start taking pre-orders on May 9th and will offer the two phones at noticeably lower prices - $724.99 for the 64 GB Galaxy S8, and $824.99 for the S8+.
These unlocked versions will theoretically allow you to choose any carrier and plan (even CDMA ones like Verizon or Sprint), but keep in mind that each telecom has its own rules and regulations regarding the matter. Furthermore, both unlocked models won't have any bloatware installed which is a nice little advantage over the carrier variants.
Things that are NOT allowed: