Are there any situations where you would need or want to do a hardware unlock instead of a software unlock?

Not really.

Now that there are software solutions of downgrading the 4.6 to 3.9 fakeblank, there is no need for it. The hardware unlock unlocked the phone with the same basic software, but that software needed two testpoints in order to operate. Now (with 3.9bl) that "testpoint" thing can be done via software. So it was basically the same unlock, just one needed dissasembly of the iPhone in order to operate.

But nowdays there is a new Anysim-type unlock for all new basebands. They come out fast, and are easily undoable.

I would not consider turbosim a hardware or software unlock. In fact its not a "real" unlock, its kinda cheating. I really like the turbosim method, no baseband modding, bricking etc. I used it all the way from 1.0.1 to 1.1.2. Now I use geo's IPSF tool on 1.1.4

So the answer: there is no difference, just one causes physical damage to the iPhone by opening it up.

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Also some hardware unlocks send illegal signals to providers.

I prefer HW unlock if u really know some HW precautions, lower ppl do it so we can charge $$$ for it. SW unlock always is free, and everyone can do it. So we cannot charge so much for a simunlock as HW one

Anyway, of course SW unlock is more safe than HW.

i wouldn't but im a jessie

And you shouldn't make a dime of it. It's not your product nor your technique.
Unlocking should be free for all. Now if you want to donate to the person making this a possiblity that is one thing, and I encourage that. But you'll never see serious hackers exploiting people.

I know that it is a stupid question. But what is unlocking, either software or hardware? Sorry to ask such a question, but i'm a novice in MAC world and specially iPhone.

Read my signature and you shall be blessed by the ancients with knowledge.

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Mandatory reading: [ALL MEMBERS] Jailbreak is not Activate is not Unlock

Thanks, the document was so useful.