Description
Samsung A157 AT&T 3G, Carrier Returns, GSM unlocked
Samsung A157 AT&T 3G GSM Unlocked is a carrier-return SGH-A157 flip that has been unlocked, running on quad-band GSM and UMTS 850/1900 with no LTE, tested and graded by TG Wireless on receipt. Unlocked carrier returns are the practical choice for exporters shipping to markets with live 3G, because the phones go straight into service without an unlock step.
Samsung's SGH-A157 is the 2012 AT&T GoPhone clamshell: a small, light flip with a 1.8-inch screen, speakerphone, basic web browser, SMS and MMS, 256 MB of storage, and an 800 mAh battery, running on quad-band GSM and UMTS/HSDPA 3G at 850 and 1900 MHz. It has no camera and no LTE. AT&T sold it in large numbers through prepaid retail, which is why clean carrier-return stock is still available.
TG Wireless sells carrier-return A157 units, tested and graded on receipt, in locked and unlocked lots to exporters supplying simple 3G flips to markets where UMTS and GSM remain live, and to prop houses and parts buyers.
Key specifications
| Model | Samsung SGH-A157, AT&T GoPhone |
|---|---|
| Network status | AT&T, GSM unlocked |
| Released | 2012 |
| Form factor | Compact clamshell |
| Network technology | Quad-band GSM 850/900/1800/1900 with UMTS/HSDPA 850/1900 (3G); no LTE |
| Display | 1.8-inch TFT, 128 x 160 pixels |
| Memory | 256 MB internal, not expandable |
| Battery | 800 mAh removable; up to 5 hours talk, about 10 days standby |
| Features | Mobile web browser, SMS and MMS, speakerphone, AT&T mobile care app |
| Camera | None |
| Port | Micro-USB |
| Size and weight | 97 x 47 x 16.5 mm, 85 g |
Condition: Carrier Returns
Carrier return units come back through a carrier channel and are tested and graded by TG on receipt. Expect a mix of open-box and lightly handled units; cosmetics and packaging are confirmed per lot by your account manager.
Network and compatibility
The Samsung A157 is a 3G UMTS and quad-band GSM phone with no LTE, so it has no service path on US carriers today: the national 3G networks were retired in 2022 and T-Mobile's 2G GSM on August 3, 2026; see the network status line in the table. Its UMTS 850/1900 and quad-band GSM still give it voice and text in export markets where those networks remain live, and AT&T-locked units need an unlock first. Domestic uses are collector, prop, offline, and parts.
Resale fit
- Export to markets with live GSM or UMTS where a compact, low-cost flip for voice and text sells to prepaid customers.
- Prop houses and collectors who want a recent-era AT&T GoPhone flip.
- Parts and refurbishment stock for the A157 line.
Ordering from TG Wireless
TG Wireless sells to the trade. Pricing is shown to approved dealer accounts, and your account manager confirms availability, quantities, and grade mix before invoicing. Orders typically ship within 24 hours of order placement by FedEx, UPS, or DHL, within the United States and internationally. TG Wireless's 12-month warranty applies, with coverage and RMA handling per your order documentation. Resellers with a valid resale certificate are not charged sales tax. The FAQ covers account setup and shipping questions.
