iBookstore approved for Canada, Rogers to unlock iPhones
The Canadian government approved the Apple iBookstore today, paving the way for Canadian authors to offer their books for sale on the iOS platform. Apple's iBookstore launched internationally on May 28, but the Canadian government had concerns about the cultural effects of this Apple product. Instead of the full version, Apple rolled out a limited version of the iBookstore, populated with select U.S. and public domain titles. Meanwhile, the government scrutinized Apple's iBookstore to confirm it helped to advance Canada's cultural heritage and national identity. After several months of review, the government reached a deal with Apple to bring the full iBookstore to Canada. The Canadian version will be used to promote Canadian and Aboriginal authors and publishers, both in Canada and internationally. Apple will also help Canadian authors and publishers with the eBook creation process.
Today brings more good news to Canadians who have a contract-free iPhone on the wireless carrier, Rogers. According to a report from iPhone in Canada, Rogers is reportedly unlocking iPhones for customers who have finished out their contract or bought their handset at the unsubsidized price. To be eligible for this unlocking, customers must be up-to-date with payments and contract-free for at least 30 days before unlocking. A $50 fee is required for the unlocking and the iPhone must be in Rogers equipment history (i.e., you cannot walk into a Rogers store with a random iPhone you bought off the street and expect the carrier to unlock it). This report has not been confirmed by Rogers, so you may want to give your local store a call before you start to dream about using your iPhone on another carrier.
[Via AppleInsider]
