O2 have just announced what seems like a fairly magnanimous gesture, in preparation for the launch of the iPhone on other UK carriers.  This marks the end of O2 iPhone exclusivity that has been in place since 2007.  It means that O2 customers who want to take their business elsewhere can have their phones unlocked as early as today, since November 10th is the stated launch date for Orange UK’s iPhone offerings. 

Orange UK, Vodafone and T-Mobile* have reached seperate agreements with Apple to bring iPhone 3G and 3GS to UK customers later this year.  Although dates and pricing are not yet clear for Vodafone and T-Mobile.  

*The iPhone 3GS is not available on T-Mobile