When you buy a cell phone from a carrier, it is usually locked, which means it has a programming code that ensures that your phone can only connect to one network and that you cannot receive or use a signal from any other provider.
If you unlock your phone, you can change carriers if you’re unhappy with the service, move to a new location, go on a trip, or want to keep your previous device when you switch networks.
Whether you want to move networks or simply increase the value of your phone when selling it, unlocking is essential. Don’t worry; it’s perfectly legal.
While most mobile phone companies provide unlock services after you’ve paid for your phone and all payments or your contract has expired, it doesn’t always happen automatically.
Unlock services are available from AT&T, Boost Mobile, Sprint, T-Mobile, Verizon, Virgin Mobile, Xfinity and many more. With Android phone unlock by carrier, you can change carrier if you are unhappy with the service, move to a new location, travel, or want to keep your previous device when switching networks.
We have broken down the steps for each of them because the procedure can be time consuming and depends on the provider. When your phone is no longer under contract, it’s a good idea to unlock it.
On Apple’s side, if you paid in full for your iPhone at the time of purchase, it’s certainly already unlocked. Unlocked phones are often more valuable than locked ones.
What will you need
Unlocking an expired phone should be second nature to you, and you’ll find it’s well worth the effort. The complexity of unlocking a phone varies by carrier, and what is a simple process for one carrier may be a challenge for another.
It is recommended that you unlock your phone before you leave your current carrier, no matter how difficult the unlock method may be, because once your contract expires, it will be much more difficult.
Even if you don’t intend to use your old phone before you leave, you never know when you might need it. Although the methods vary, there is a list of information required to unlock your phone that you should have on hand before you begin.
- The name and account number of the account holder.
- The IMEI number of your device.
- Please provide your phone number.
- The password or social security number of the account owner.
- Signed contract and/or equipment payment plan.
- Military personnel who wish to unlock their phones before the expiration of their contract can obtain travel documents abroad.
- How can the carrier unlock an Android (Verizon) phone?
- How can a carrier unlock an AT&T phone?
- How can a carrier unlock a T-Mobile phone?
- How can a carrier unlock a Sprint phone?
- How do I unblock a subway operator with a T-Mobile phone?
- How can an operator unlock a Boost mobile phone?
- How can an operator unlock a cell phone in the US?
1. How to unlock Android (Verizon) phone?
Verizon smartphones are locked for a limited period of time. Verizon’s policy is to tether newly purchased devices to Verizon’s networks for 60 days after purchase to help prevent theft and other fraudulent activities. The lock is automatically lifted after 60 days and applies to prepaid and postpaid devices.
This means that, unlike most other carriers, there is no set of criteria that must be met in order for your phone to be unlocked. Military members are exempt from this restriction and may request an unlock by calling Verizon Customer Service at 800-922-0204.
Although SIM-enabled Verizon phones can be used on AT&T, T-Mobile, and other GSM carriers, GSM roaming radios are required to make calls and send text messages in the United States.
While most current Verizon devices work correctly on US GSM bands, LTE compatibility depends on your location. International devices may still need assistance, so you can contact Verizon Support at 800-922-0204.
Phone-in-a-Box prepaid 4G devices are tethered to the network for the time indicated on the box. To begin the unlock process, you may need to call Verizon Prepaid Support at 888-294-6804.
Third party lockpickers
You can always try one of the many third party lockpicking firms if you don’t want to wait 60 days. These companies use the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number to unlock your phone and provide fast and efficient service.
Of course, choosing a firm with care is critical. We offer UnlockBase or UnlockUnit as reliable providers. Third party lockpicking services typically cost less than $100.
2. How can an operator unlock an AT&T phone?
Unlocking an AT&T phone is a little more difficult than unlocking a Verizon phone. Even though you’ll have to jump through a few extra hoops, it shouldn’t be too difficult. Below is a list of requirements to unlock an AT&T phone.
- The gadget must be compatible with AT&T networks.
- If you are an existing customer, you must pay off the contract or payment plan in full (including early termination fees). If you don’t have a plan, pay early and wait 48 hours before making a request.
- It cannot be reported as lost, stolen or used in fraud.
- The account must be in “good standing”, which means that it has not been associated with fraudulent activity.
- It must not be active on another AT&T subscriber’s account.
- It must be on a postpaid plan for at least 60 days, with no “overdue or unpaid amount”.
- If it is an AT&T prepaid device, it must have been in use for at least six months.
- If you update too early, you’ll have to wait 14 days of “buyer’s remorse”(or 30 days for corporate customers) before unlocking your latest phone.
- If it’s a business gadget, you’ll need your boss’s approval.
- For military personnel, email TCS or PCS (Temporary/Permanent Station Change) documentation to AT&T to unlock your account before contract or payments expire.
You can fill out an online unlock request form at AT&T. Enter your AT&T phone number or, if you’ve already switched, the IMEI number of your AT&T device. You will have 24 hours after submitting this form to click the link in the confirmation email you receive.
Within two business days, AT&T will provide you with instructions on how to unlock your phone via text message or email. AT&T no longer has a strict yearly unlock limit, so don’t worry about being identified as suspicious unless you send hundreds of unlock requests every month.
You can check the progress of your unlock request on the AT&T Unlock Status website to make sure it was successful. The network also offers limited phone unlocking through its helpline at 800-331-0500, but does not officially unlock phones.
AT&T provides different unlock methods and codes depending on the device. An unlock code is not required for Apple iPhone. Instead, simply remove your AT&T SIM card and insert your chosen carrier’s SIM card to begin the setup process after you receive an email allowing the unlock request.
Military personnel, even those with installments, can unlock the iPhone, but they must register their active duty status on AT&T forms.
Third party lockpickers
You can take a different approach if you are not eligible for a carrier unlock. Many people prefer to use IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) unlock, which works similar to carrier unlock.
There are many IMEI unlock providers on the Internet, but it is always preferable to use reputable firms such as DoctorSIM and MobileUnlocked.
3. How can an operator unlock a T-Mobile phone?
T-Mobile may be a non-carrier, but its unlock criteria is identical to other carriers. If you want to unlock your T-Mobile phone, keep the following in mind:
- It must be a T-Mobile phone.
- It cannot be reported as stolen, lost or blocked (via IMEI).
- It must be associated with the “good reputation”of the account.
- On postpaid accounts, the gadget must be fully paid and be in working order on the requested line for at least 40 days.
- Device must be topped up with at least $100 since initial use or must be active for at least a year on prepaid accounts.
- A minimum of 18 consecutive monthly payments must be paid if the device is under a maintenance contract.
- All payments must be made and the equipment must be paid in full if you use the T-Equipment Mobile installment plan or your phone is rented through JUMP! On the fly.
- You have made no more than two unlock requests per line in the last 12 months.
- T-Mobile may ask for proof of purchase.
After meeting the eligibility criteria, some Android phones from the carrier can be unlocked using the settings menu. Others like Google Pixel and older Samsung devices can use apps to unlock T-Device Mobile.
However, not all phones are compatible with these methods. The T-Mobile unlock app does not exist for the iPhone.
Once your iPhone is eligible, T-Mobile should provide you with an unlock notification and possibly an unlock code. If you don’t have this information, call T-Mobile and request it. For precise instructions on how to use your Apple device, please visit this T-Mobile page.
Otherwise, you can unlock your phone by chatting with T-Mobile customer support online, by calling 611 from a T-Mobile device, or by dialing 877-746-0909 from any other phone.
Seconded military personnel can also unlock their phones if they have a good reputation and travel documents.
Third party lockpickers
If you do not meet carrier unlock requirements, you can use IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) unlock, which is just as effective. Many IMEI unlock providers can be found online and they all work in the same way. You will receive an unlock code via email after payment (usually less than $100).
Since you will have to pay up front, you need to be sure you are using a reliable provider. There are two ways to unblock River or DoctorSIM.
4. How can a carrier unlock a Sprint phone?
Sprint is no longer an independent company following the merger with T-Mobile. Phones with domestic SIM unlock capability released after 2015 will unlock automatically when they become eligible for a postpaid account, according to Sprint.
Prior to this, Sprint phones were generally unable to unlock the SIM card. Before Sprint unlocks your phone, make sure your device and account meet the following requirements:
- It must be a Sprint device.
- It should be able to unlock internal SIMs (when unlocked in the US).
- It cannot be reported as lost, stolen or blocked and cannot be linked to fraud.
- It must be linked to an account with a “good reputation”.
- It must be in the queue for at least 40 days.
- There must be no unpaid or pending fines or payments.
If your device is inactive, you can unlock it by calling Sprint Support at 888-211-4727. Get ready to receive an over-the-air update to unlock your smartphone. You may need to submit additional verification to ensure that your device can be unlocked.
If your Sprint iPhone is still locked, your best bet is to contact customer support. If you unlock your phone for use abroad, make sure it supports international SIM cards.
If you are a member of the US military stationed overseas and have a good Sprint account, the carrier will waive some of their restrictions if you want your phone to be unlocked.
The policy applies to family members who use the same account. If you currently work overseas, you can contact Sprint Worldwide Care or call 888-226-7212 to unlock your phone.
However, there is a big problem with Sprint unlock skills. Many Sprint-branded phones will be incompatible with GSM providers due to the carrier’s adoption of a rather obscure network technology (CDMA). Before you unlock your phone, make sure it’s compatible with your new carrier.
Third party lockpickers
Don’t worry if you don’t meet carrier unlock requirements; there are alternative routes. IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) based unlocking is performed by third party lockpicking firms and is just as effective as official carrier unlocking.
You can find many such businesses on the Internet. Since most require upfront payments, it is very important to study the reviews and choose a company with a good reputation. We recommend DoctorSIM or UnlockRadar as trusted sellers.
5. How do I unblock a metro operator with a T-Mobile phone?
When it comes to prepaid services, T-Mobile’s Metro, formerly known as Metro PCS, is one of the most popular options. Even though it displays the T-Mobile logo, the prerequisites for unlocking the phone are quite different.
- It must be Metro.
- It must be in active service for at least 180 consecutive days (about six months).
- The 180-day period starts from the activation date of the original phone if you have a replacement phone under warranty.
- Military personnel are exempt from 180-day service; simply bring your deployment documents to the corporate store and a representative will offer you an unlock code for your phone.
The device unlock app, which is usually found in the Metro by T-Mobile folder on your phone, is one way to unlock it. Only a few phones are capable of this, especially the Alcatel A30, LG Aristo and Samsung J7 Prime.
If you have an Apple device, Metro by T-Mobile will immediately approve and start unlocking your device as soon as it’s eligible. To complete the unlock process on your device, make sure your device is eligible for unlocking, that it’s connected to Wi-Fi, that you’re using a non-T-Mobile SIM card in your iPhone, and that you’ve completed the first-use time.
If your device is already set up, sign in with your Apple ID using the on-screen prompts. T-Mobile’s Metro now uses the GSM network instead of the CDMA network. So your unlocked Metro phone will only work with other GSM carriers like T-Mobile and AT&T.
6. How can an operator unlock a Boost mobile phone?
After Sprint’s merger with T-Mobile, Boost Mobile users are now part of DISH Wireless. As a result, new criteria may appear compared to the past. SIM unlocking is not possible for many pre-2015 phones such as T-Mobile’s Metro. So you are looking to see if your Boost Mobile phone can be unlocked.
You must keep track of your progress as Boost Mobile will not automatically unlock your phone or tell you when you have qualified. After completing the conditions of participation, call the company’s support service at 888-402-7366 to get an unlock:
- It must be a Boost Mobile phone that can unlock SIM cards.
- It must not be declared missing, stolen or unlocked.
- The gadget has been active on the account for at least 12 months.
- The device account is active and in good standing.
Active military personnel can request an unlock with their deployment documents and current account. Sim unlocking is also available to family members with the same account. Within 12 months, each phone number is authorized for two unlocked devices.
Third party lockpickers
You can still unlock your smartphone if it was made before 2015 or doesn’t meet the criteria. You can turn to a third party lockpicking business instead of asking your carrier to unlock it.
To unlock, these companies use your phone’s IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity), which works in the same way as unlocking the official carrier.
You will have to pay up front if you hire a third party lock picker. The price varies depending on the provider, but usually does not exceed $100. Make sure you have done your homework before choosing a firm.
Unfortunately, many online scammers seek to trick you into paying money. Check positive ratings or ask for suggestions if you want to be on the safe side.
We offer two apps MobileUnlocked or UnlockBase.
7. How to unlock a mobile phone in the USA?
Most US Cellular 4G LTE smartphones have been unlocked since February 1, 2016. Those purchased prior to this date may receive an over-the-air update, so make sure your device is up to date before contacting US Cellular for an unlock.
If this does not apply to your device, or if it is a 3G or 1X device, you need to call US Cellular Customer Service at 611 (from a US mobile device) or 888-944-9400 (from another device). -US Cellular device) to get the unlock code.
US Cellular’s unlocking technique, like that of other carriers, complies with CITA’s requirements for unlocking its devices and allows you to unlock phones and tablets that meet the following criteria:
- It must be a US mobile device.
- This equipment must not be lost, stolen or fraudulently obtained.
- The issued equipment must be paid in full.
To prevent theft and fraud, Apple and Samsung have implemented a 120-day lockout policy on many popular phones, both prepaid and postpaid. However, a well-established account that meets these criteria can get an early unlock.
As usual, deployed military personnel can unlock their smartphones in advance by showing their ID if their account is valid.
According to US Cellular, some gadgets cannot be unlocked due to their age or lack of technology to connect to other networks. If your device appears to be vulnerable, call US Cellular at 611 (from a US cellular device) or 888-944-9400 (from a non-US cellular device).
iPhone error message? here’s what to do
“The SIM card installed in this iPhone does not seem to be supported,” you may notice on your PC or iPhone. To activate iPhone, you must use a compatible SIM card from a supported carrier.
Please use a new SIM card with your iPhone or contact the carrier store that supports your iPhone.”If you see this notification, follow these steps:
Starting with iOS 14, you can check the status of your phone. Scroll down to the Operator Lock section under Settings > General > About. This area should not contain restrictions for the SIM card.
If you don’t see this notification, your phone hasn’t been unlocked by your carrier yet. To find out what’s going on, contact your carrier immediately.
This should be enough to unlock your iPhone, but if you’re still having issues, you may need to factory reset your iPhone and reboot from a backup.
Unlocking your prepaid or fully paid phone
Of course, there are people with prepaid and fully paid gadgets. The process of unlocking them is, for the most part, simple.
Although there was previously a broad unlocking policy, the Cellular Phone Manufacturers Association (CTIA) has proposed a set of standardized unlocking standards for phones and tablets.
If the subscriber wants it, carriers must unlock a fully paid phone or a prepaid phone that has been in use for a year. When a subscriber’s device is eligible for unlocking, cellular operators must notify the subscriber. Finally, upon request, telecom operators must unlock the phones of US military personnel.
Sprint, T-Mobile, Metro by T-Mobile, US Cellular, and Verizon were all confirmed, while AT&T’s rules were previously compliant. You cannot simply transfer your phone to any other provider after it has been unlocked.
While some modern phones are designed for this type of flexibility, others are still tailored to a particular carrier’s networking capabilities and features.
Most carriers have an online Bring Your Phone tool to determine if your unlocked phone will work on their network. To receive an immediate receipt, simply enter your smartphone’s IMEI number.
Using third party lock crackers
If the official carrier doesn’t work, you can still use IMEI Unlock which works like the official carrier unlock service. Several IMEI unlock services are available.
However, it is recommended to stick with reputable firms such as Express Unlocks (for iPhone), DoctorSIM, MobileUnlocked, UnlockBase, MobileUnlock, UnlockUnit, Unlock River, and Unlock Radar.
Before you make your final choice or pay, check out review sites like Trustpilot. Your carrier determines the cost to unlock your iPhone. Lock picking services support models from the latest iPhone series up to iPhone 4.
Most third-party unlock services work in a similar way. You can purchase an email unlock code from their website for various prices, usually around $100. Most of them require money up front. Customer service lines are available from reputable unlock vendors and codes are delivered quickly.
- DoctorSIM
- Express Unlock (iPhone)
- MobileUnlocked
- UnlockBase
- Mobile phone unlock
- UnlockUnit
- unlock river
- Unlock radar
Buying Unlocked Phones
When all is said and done, most consumers will find that buying an unlocked phone is a better alternative than figuring out how to unlock it. First of all, it saves you from having to unlock it.
Second, you can choose from a variety of cellular services, including prepaid, postpaid, and hybrid options. It’s a big commitment, and if you already have a phone it can be a bit of a pain, but being able to switch carriers at a moment’s notice is worth it.
Unlocked phones are sold by retailers like Amazon and Walmart, but they come with a large upfront cost. However, there are deals to be found if you know where to look, such as built-in unlocked Amazon Alexa phones. These phones are significantly cheaper but come with Amazon services pre-installed.
Except for certain carrier financing options, every iPhone purchased from Apple—either online or in the Apple Store—is unlocked. You can use any carrier with an unlocked iPhone. Follow these steps to get started with your new carrier.
- Turn off your iPhone.
- Remove your former carrier’s existing SIM card.
- Replace your old SIM card with a new one for a new carrier.
- Your phone must be restarted.
- To set up your phone, restart your phone and follow the on-screen instructions.
You can also get a SIM-free iPhone, which means it doesn’t come with a carrier SIM card and allows you to use any compatible carrier’s SIM card. Of course, you will have to pay in full for the new phone in advance.
If you can’t pay in full, try Apple’s iPhone Upgrade Program, which allows you to purchase an unlocked iPhone just like a SIM-free alternative, but with a credit check.
Not only will you save money up front, but you will also be able to pay in monthly installments and be eligible for renewal after 12 payments. Includes AppleCare+ Protection Program and AppleCare+ Add-on with Theft and Loss Protection for $4.17 per month.
Conclusion
Being tied to one carrier can be an aggravating circumstance. Thankfully, most carriers are becoming more permissive and will unlock your phone under certain circumstances.
You can always turn to a third party lock hacking business if your phone is not suitable for official carrier unlocking. Even if you have to pay, you will receive fast and efficient service.
We hope this post made it clear how the unlocking process works and what requirements you have to meet.
FAQ
Can you unlock a carrier-locked phone?
You can change providers without buying a new phone by unlocking it. All operators must allow you if you have paid for your phone. Many smartphones are compatible with any US carrier. You can find out if your phone is compatible.
Can you unlock your phone by yourself?
Inserting a SIM card from another network into your phone will confirm that it needs to be unlocked. A notification will be displayed on the home screen if it is locked. To unlock your smartphone, call your ISP and get a Network Unlock Code (NUC).
Can I unlock my phone online for free?
Unlocking your phone is completely free if you are qualified! According to the FCC: “If a device is eligible for unlocking, participating carriers cannot charge an additional fee to existing or former consumers. Non-customers and former customers may be charged for unlocking eligible devices.”