Looking for a new, unlocked iPhone that hasn't been hacked? Normally iPhones come locked to a carrier, such as AT&T, and must be modified to allow usage with other networks. This could violate terms of service and Apple's warranty rules.

Two iPhone models that have never been locked can now be found for sale on the website Buy.com. These legally unlocked iPhones should be fully covered by Apple's warranty and make it possible to use the device on many GSM networks with no contract.

Apple has filed patents indicating the company is working on "consumer abuse detection" for devices such as the iPhone and iPod. The system described in the patent filing shows circuitry that would record information whenever the hardware is treated in a manner that is not covered under warranty or Apple Care coverage.

Shocks and impacts to the iPhone, exceeding the maximum safe operating temperature, and exposure to water are examples of events that could be recorded, along with any resulting damage to the device. During a warranty claim, the data could be retrieved to see if the device has been abused or is still covered.

Maybe the conflict between two giants was brewing in the background the whole time. The partnership between Apple and Google looks to be on edge ever since Google decided to get into the mobile phone business, launching the open source platform Android.

Apple, as we know from countless reports of application bans, rescinded approvals, and the rejection of Google Voice, keeps strict and inconsistent control of their iPhone OS. In fact, previous Google apps appearing in the App Store have had the privilege of using tools hidden from the average developer.