I think it's fair to say that you can get better value in the long-term if you buy SIM-free, then shop around for your own call and data deal, which is why it's frustrating that SIM-free stock of the Nokia Lumia 800 has been held back into 2012.
That's according to the blog of retailer Clove, which says that the Lumia 800 will not be available on the launch date in SIM-free form, that launch date being 16 November. So if you want one of the Windows Phone 7.5 handsets right away, you'll have to sign a contract. It seems Clove has done swift business with the Lumia 800 so far, which is good news for both Microsoft and Nokia. However, it might well have been popular with the networks too, hence the lack of available stock. If you want one SIM-free, January 2012 is being provisionally talked about for a new date.
As for contract stock, T-Mobile and Vodafone are taking pre-orders, as is Orange, which is offering a free Xbox 360 as an added incentive. As a halfway house between the two, the Three network is offering the Lumia 800 on pay-as-you-go, which will set you back around £399.
Not seen anything of the Lumia 800 so far? Don't worry, as we have a hands-on with the phone here, as well as a video of the phone in action. Also check out the official launch details for a breakdown of all the features.
