Take Xiaomi's latest flagship, for example. However, that's a trend that could be changing. MORE: Best Unlocked Smartphones - Phones Under $200, $300, $500 and operate on 3G data networks, they lack compatibility with our LTE bands - which may as well make them useless. While such devices are capable of making and receiving calls in the U.S. And even then, the functionality depends on the particular phone in question. The outlook becomes murkier for smaller companies that target specific markets, or perhaps larger organizations that don't offer the same products in all territories.
Motorola is also notable for being one of the few companies that makes a point of building both GSM and CDMA compatibility into many of its budget-minded devices - like the Moto E and G series - a practice that isn't very common in the industry. For example, Apple sells iPhones all around the world on hundreds of networks, which means you can get the appropriate iPhone for your region no matter where you live. Ultimately, a device's compatibility is determined by the region in which it is sold as well as any potential carrier partners the manufacturer has lined up. Most phone makers don't build support for every band in their products because it would be too expensive. It's why Apple makes several different models of the iPhone X, for example: one "global" version that operates on both GSM and CDMA standards, another geared only for the former and a third that picks up additional bands exclusively used in Japan. Cellular networks in different countries use different bands and technologies. The problem, in a word, lies with the carriers. Is it worth it to splurge on international shipping? Unfortunately, we can't give you a simple yes-or-no answer.
Nevertheless, if you're eyeing a handset that isn't offered in the States, like Huawei's pleasingly purple P20 Pro with its triple cameras, or the gorgeous Xiaomi Mi Mix 2S - which is currently only available in China - you might be weighing your options. But smartphones have crucial differences, and they're much more complicated. Most devices these days are functionally identical across regions, save for the type of power adapter they're packaged with. Where most tech is concerned, the danger is minimal. Huawei's newly unveiled P20 Pro doesn't sound like it's U.S.-bound.