When Microsoft first announced the Lumia 650 almost a month ago, they said it would be coming to select European markets. It was discovered almost immediately that there was a user manual online for a Cricket Wireless variant, implying a US release.
Today, Lumia US had this to say on Twitter:
Obviously, they have something to say. There have been other sightings of the Cricket Wireless model; however, it"s entirely possible that Microsoft could be planning on offering the device unlocked in Microsoft Stores as well.
That does seem to be the trend, as that"s what they"ve done with the Lumia 950 and 950 XL. Older models, such as the Lumia 640, were carrier exclusives in the US, not even offering an unlocked model.
Since there have been issues with Windows phones not being available on certain carriers, Microsoft had confirmed to me some months back that they were planning on focusing on unlocked models for those that aren"t on the chosen carrier but still want the device.
We"ve been reviewing the Lumia 650 for the past week and we"re excited to see it come to the US. You can check out our first impressions, second impressions, and comparison with the Lumia 640 right here.