Learn how to unlock your phone for use with other carriers. First, check if your phone meets the unlock criteria. Then, contact your carrier for a code or use a third-party service, though be aware that doing so may violate your carrier’s terms of use.
Unlocking Your Phone Through Your Carrier
Step 1: Check for Existing Unlock
Before diving into the unlocking process, verify if your phone is already carrier unlocked. Phones from Verizon and most Androids are typically unlocked upon purchase. Additionally, your carrier might unlock it once you meet their criteria.
Step 2: Confirm Carrier Criteria
Ensure you meet your carrier’s specific unlocking requirements. Different carriers have varied criteria:
- Verizon: Most modern phones are unlocked, but if not, contact customer support.
- Sprint: Active for 50 days, fully owned, not reported lost or stolen.
- AT&T: Paid off, on the network for 60 days, not reported lost or stolen.
- T-Mobile: Not reported lost or stolen, up-to-date payments, specific conditions for pre-paid and payment plan users.
If you’re in the military and need a deployment-related unlock, provide your paperwork to your carrier.
Step 3: Check IMEI/MEID
Locate your phone’s IMEI or MEID number. On iPhone, find it in Settings > General > About. On Android, go to Settings > About phone > Status.
Step 4: Gather Account Information
Have your account details ready before contacting your carrier.
Step 5: Obtain the Unlock Code
Call your carrier, request a phone unlock, and provide the necessary information. Your carrier will supply a code if you’re eligible. Some carriers offer online retrieval options.
Note: There might be a fee associated with unlocking your phone.
Step 6: Identify Cellular Type
Determine if your phone operates on CDMA or GSM standards. Know your phone’s compatibility before proceeding.
Step 7: Acquire SIM Card
Purchase a SIM card from your preferred carrier, ideally from their store for proper assistance.
Step 8: Insert New SIM Card
Turn off your phone, replace the current SIM card with the new one, and turn it back on.
Step 9: Enter Unlock Code
After restarting, enter the provided unlock code. If needed, unlock your phone’s screen with your passcode.
If the unlock code fails, contact your carrier for further assistance.
Unlocking Through a Paid Service
Step 1: Obtain IMEI Number
Begin by checking your phone’s IMEI number. For a third-party unlock service, provide your phone’s IMEI or MEID number. Locate the IMEI number on iPhone through Settings > General > About or on Android through Settings > About phone > Status.
Step 2: Choose a Service
Explore online services that offer unlock codes for a fee. Ensure the service is legal in your region and avoid scams, particularly those requesting completion of surveys or offers. Only use sites with a secure “https://” prefix.
Step 3: Research Thoroughly
Before committing, research the chosen service extensively. Read user reviews and consult phone enthusiast forums. Be cautious to avoid scams, and rely on browser safety alerts.
Step 4: Input IMEI Number
Enter your IMEI number in the service’s “unlock” section. Some services may require additional information or account creation before providing an unlock code.
Step 5: Make Payment
When prompted, pay for the service using secure methods like PayPal or Venmo. Prices vary, ranging from a few dollars to over $20. Ensure accurate information to receive a functional unlock code.
Step 6: Retrieve Unlock Code
Wait for your unlock code, which may take hours to days. Some services provide it immediately after payment. Once received, proceed to unlock your phone.
Step 7: Identify Cellular Type
Determine your phone’s cellular type—CDMA or GSM—before proceeding. Ensure compatibility with your preferred carrier.
Step 8: Purchase SIM Card
Acquire a SIM card from your chosen carrier. Opt for their store for assistance in selecting the correct SIM card.
Step 9: Install New SIM Card
Turn off your phone, replace the current SIM card with the new one, and power it back on.
Step 10: Enter the Unlock Code
Upon restarting, enter the unlock code when prompted. Your phone is officially unlocked. Some devices may require entering your passcode before unlocking.
If the unlock code proves ineffective, contact your carrier for further assistance.
