Description
Samsung A197 Black, A Grade carrier return, AT&T GSM unlocked
Samsung A197 Black AT&T GSM Unlocked A- Stock is a carrier-return lot of the black SGH-A197 clamshell, tested and graded A Grade by TG Wireless, GSM unlocked on 850/1900 MHz with no 3G or LTE. Exporters assembling basic 2G flip lots take graded carrier returns as a clean, unlocked alternative to sealed units at a lower step.
The Samsung SGH-A197 is a 2010 AT&T GoPhone clamshell: a compact flip with a 1.8-inch 128 by 160 color screen, no camera, Bluetooth, and messaging that covers SMS, MMS, mobile email, and AOL, Windows Live, and Yahoo instant messaging. It was sold as a prepaid pay-as-you-go handset and runs on dual-band GSM 850/1900 with GPRS data only, no 3G or LTE. The A197 is a voice-and-text phone and nothing more, which is exactly why it still has a market.
TG Wireless sells the A197 to exporters of basic flips for live 2G markets, to collector and prop buyers, and to parts resellers.
Key specifications
| Model | Samsung SGH-A197, AT&T GoPhone |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Network status | GSM unlocked |
| Released | 2010 |
| Form factor | Compact clamshell |
| Network technology | Dual-band GSM 850/1900 with GPRS; no 3G, no LTE |
| Display | 1.8-inch 128 x 160 color display |
| Camera | None |
| Messaging | SMS, MMS, mobile email (Yahoo, AOL, Windows Live), AOL/Windows Live/Yahoo IM |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, WAP browser |
Condition: A Grade
A Grade (A-Stock) units are lightly used, fully tested, and working, and may show very minor nicks or scratches. Units are supplied as graded; ask your account manager about packaging (original box, accessories, or handset only) when you request a quote.
Network and compatibility
This is a 2G GSM phone with GPRS/EDGE data and no 3G or LTE radio, so it cannot register on any US carrier: AT&T closed its 2G network in 2017, the US 3G networks shut in 2022, and T-Mobile retired its 2G GSM layer on August 3, 2026; see the network status line in the table. GSM unlocked units still work on live 2G networks abroad. In the US, treat it as export, collector, prop, or parts stock.
Resale fit
- Export to Latin America, Africa, and Asia, where 850/1900 MHz GSM service is still live and basic carrier handsets sell at a low ticket.
- Collector shops and film and TV prop houses that want period-correct AT&T handsets from the late 2000s.
- Parts and refurbishment stock for the Samsung SGH A-series.
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.
