At 16 Apr 2008 19:05:46 -0700 SMS wrote:

> > Which is fine domestically, but this will allow jailbroken iPhone users
> > to call via WiFi overseas, reducing roaming charges or the need to
> > deal with the hassle of local prepaid SIMs.
>
> Perhaps, but just as in the U.S., Wi-Fi isn't sufficient for adequate
> coverage. It's actually worse overseas where there isn't nearly as
> much free Wi-Fi.

Understood- I'm not talking about an Oxford-like ubiquity, I just mean the
ability to make or take VoIP calls back at the hotel. Fortunately or
unfortunately I'm not "important" enough to need 24/7 access. When
traveling, just catching up with voicemail and e-mail daily is adequate for
my needs.

> With some free Wi-Fi networks requiring Microsoft
> SideKick to work, this further lessens the value of Wi-Fi. You really
> need a prepaid SIM overseas if you're going to have even moderate
> use. Which of course rules out the iPhone unless you have it unlocked.


I would assume anyone who's jailbroken their iPhone is also likely to have
unlocked it, although I could be wrong.

> Where I'd like an iPhone size device is at the hotel to use the hotel's
> Wi-Fi rather than haul along a laptop. Alas, many hotels still have only
> wired access, including the last hotel I stayed at in Asia.

I believe Larry is now selling N800s door-to-door... ;-)

> So I'd have to
> also haul along a pocket router to use a device without wired capability.


There's one packed in my travel kit just for that eventuality.


> > For short trips, buying a $30 SIM to avoid $30 in roaming charges is a
false economy.
>
> Yes, this is true. At least in Taiwan the local SIM is not $30, it's
around $10.

There are certainly bargains to be had in some countries. For $10 I'd
probably buy one just for giggles.