The iPhone X is now also being sold as a SIM-free version Stateside, with prices starting at $999. Unlocked versions of the handset have been available, but only via Verizon and Best Buy for a $100 additional fee for its carrier-free status. The SIM-free option is listed among the other carrier variants on the US Apple site.

While a SIM-free version of Apple phones is nothing new for the States, what makes this variant different is that users will not require an account listed with the carrier they are purchasing from in order to qualify. It's unclear why Apple has made the slight change to its policy, but the new option should appeal to users that like to bounce between different networks.

SIM-free offerings is something that has been available to local consumers for some time, and with the iPhone X, it is currently available on pre-order for a post-paid price of R20 999. The device's shipping date, however, has not been detailed, with only a mid-December window being mentioned.