iPhone 7 for AT&T, T-Mobile is limited to GSM networks


From Apple's iPhone 7/iPhone 7 Plus FAQ:

If you buy iPhone with AT&T or T-Mobile, it will not work on Sprint or Verizon Wireless.

[...]

If you buy an unlocked iPhone with Verizon or Sprint, it will work on AT&T or T-Mobile.

Recode reports that this is due to Apple splitting component vendors for the iPhone 7 modem. The Qualcomm modem works on CDMA (Sprint, Verizon) and GSM (AT&T, T-Mobile) while the modem supplied by Intel only works on GSM. So, if you buy an iPhone 7/7 Plus for AT&T or T-Mobile, you'll likely be getting an Intel modem that won't work on CMDA networks.

This essentially means if you buy an iPhone for a GSM provider, you can't switch over to a CDMA provider. Assuming of course your phone is unlocked.

Likely not a big deal for most users, but it something to consider for resale value. If you're set on a GSM provider, you may want to consider a trade-in program rather than reselling your device for your next upgrade.