The leading mobile operator in India, Bharti Airtel has been authorized by Apple to ‘unlock’ and unleash its 3G iPhones in India. Apple has authorized Bharti Airtel to sell 3G iPhones, through its stores, openly to all, not exclusively to Airtel subscribers.

The global support site of Apple has confirmed that Bharti Airtel has been empowered to unlock the Apple’s 3G iPhones to sell them openly to all. Apple has authorized the 40 global carriers, including Vodafone in Australia, Orange in Austria and Movistar in Argentina, to unlock the 3G iPhones.

Bharti Airtel is the only one to get authorization in India. However, Bharti Airtel spokesperson has declined to comment on the issue.  

Currently, Bharti Airtel and Vodafone-Essar sell 8 GB and 16 GB versions of iPhones bundled with their services. The 8 GB version of iPhone is available for Rs 31,000, while 16 GB version is available for Rs 36,000 in India. Apple will launch its iPhone 3GS, touted as the “fastest and most powerful iPhone” in the next few months.