We’ve all heard news of the new software that promises to liberate the iPhone from the bonds of monogamy; in fact, entering “iPhone unlock” into a standard Google search currently yields approximately 3,140,000 results (soon to be 3,140,001). As we all know, a group of software developers, the iPhoneSIMfree crew, has stated that they will begin accepting bulk orders tomorrow for a program that will allow iPhone owners to use the device on a variety of cell phone systems around the world—not just with AT&T. Los Angeles software consultant Brett Schulte, who is not affiliated with the developers, demonstrated this new software for CNN on Friday, August 31st. In this demonstration an iPhone that had the new software appeared to work on the T-Mobile system just seconds after Schulte replaced the AT&T SIM card with a T-Mobile SIM card.

While the internet is abuzz with discussions concerning the legality, functionality and economy of this software, no one seems to be talking about its potential effect on the efficacy of the iPhone as an educational or administrative tool. Does the ubiquity provided by a single carrier outweigh the convenience of multiple carriers on college campuses? What crucial educational/administrative functions might be gained or lost with the widespread unlocking of iPhones?