Consumers who want a new iPhone 6 or iPhone 6 Plus but do not want to be tied to a plan can now get the latest smartphones unlocked. Although unlocked smartphones are nothing new, this is the first time that Apple itself is offering the unlocked device. The price of the unlocked variant is the same as the off-contract price of the handset.

The unlocked iPhone 6 has a model number "A1586" and the iPhone 6 Plus has a model number "A1524." The 16 GB iPhone 6 costs $649, while the 64 GB and 128 GB versions cost $749 and $849, respectively. The 16 GB iPhone 6 Plus costs $749 and the 64 GB and 128 GB models have price tags of $849 and $949.

According to the Apple Store, "The unlocked iPhone includes all the features of iPhone but without a wireless contract commitment or a carrier installment plan. You can activate and use the unlocked iPhone on the supported wireless network of your choice, such as AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, or Sprint in the United States." 

Managing Director at Rutberg & Co Rajeev Chand talked to CNBC and said that Apple benefits in releasing the unlocked version of the iPhones. The company gives the users the freedom in selecting which carrier they want to receive service from. This will also allow users to switch carriers as they wish.

Prior to this offer, users had to go to specialists to unlock their iPhones since the smartphone always comes under a carrier. 

Meanwhile, International Business Times claims that the release of the unlocked iPhones kills the hope for the iPhone 6S, which is purported to be Apple's budget smartphone that has similar specs with iPhone 5S. According to rumors, the handset will sport a 4-inch screen display and slightly lower specs and features. Cowen and Company analyst Timothy Arcuri also said that Apple is working on a 4-inch smartphone that is bound to be launched in the spring. However, Apple has not confirmed the rumors about a smaller iPhone 6.