IPhone carrier lock removal. Best 7 Free iPhone Unlock Services

Best 7 Free iPhone Unlock Services

My iPhone is added into blacklist by ATT and after that I’m unable to use it. What can I do to make it working again?

Are you in trouble with iPhone carrier’s network? If the answer is yes, then you understand the ache of carrier restriction. In that case, is there any simple solution such as free iPhone unlock service to remove the network lock on your iPhone so that you can use it on the network permanently? Actually yes! In this topic, I am going to show you the top 7 best free or paid iPhone unlock services of 2018.

Part 1. Top 7 iPhone Unlock Services to Unlock iPhone Free

iPhone IMEI

For America, United Kingdom and Canada users, we recommend this website to you. This page provides the free iPhone IMEI checker and unlocking service for you. The iPhoneIMEI team promises to unlock iPhone 6 for any carrier by whitelisting the IMEI. It is available on all iPhone models and iOS versions. After the help of this service, your iPhone IMEI is going to be whitelisted from Apple Activation Database. It’s said that the unlock service is totally legal. What’s more, you don’t have to jailbreak the iPhone. For supporting this service, you need to select your iPhone model, the carrier that lock your cell phone, and finally type your IMEI number.

Cell Unlocker

This service offers the forever unlocking solution and is able to set your SIM card free after filling out your mobile phone details. All you have to perform is to submit your IMEI and iPhone model. And then it will help you unlock iPhone(free) service, and then you plug in your iPhone with a Windows or Mac personal computer, run iTunes and your service will be unlocked successfully.

Free Unlock 24

This little site provides the free, easy and permanent method to factory unlock iPhone without jailbreaking within several minutes. After getting help from this service, your iPhone wouldn’t be locked again even though you update device in iTunes. It won’t void warranty of your phone so you can use it safely. The shortcoming is that it doesn’t support iPhone 8/8 Plus and iPhone X at present.

iPhone Full Unlock

This service provides the lifetime unlock service for your iPhone. After using this service, you are capital of changing Network Provider on your unlocked iPhone at ease, especially when you are travelling abroad and want to transfer to cheap service from another Cell Provider. You don’t have to anxious about it getting relocked after connecting with iTunes or performing a restore. It supports iOS versions from latest to lowest and even firmware version.

Global Unlock

In this page, you just have to get start using its service with 3 simple steps. First and foremost, type your iPhone information, such as country and network where it is locked. Secondly, share this website with your friends on Google, or Eventually, you are about to receive an Email with instructions on how to enter the unlock code for your iPhone.

Official iPhone Unlock

This service is based on United Kingdom but the IMEI-based SIM unlocks is working wherever you are from. It offers the official factory IMEI-based unlock for all iPhone models, iOS version and all modem firmware. By whitelisting your IMEI in Apple iTunes database, you can choose your iPhone with any LET, GSM or CDMA carrier around the world. Do not miss this iPhone IMEI unlock(free) service.

iphone, carrier, lock, removal

UnlockBoot

UnlockBoot is a worthwhile iPhone SIM unlock service that can permanently unlock iPhone X, 8 Plus, 8, 7, 7 Plus, 6, 6S, 6S Plus, 5, 5C, 5S, 4 or 4S which are locked to the ATT, Sprint, T-Mobile, Xfinity and Verizon network. Once the iPhone Unlock is done, your device will be operational on any carrier network.

Bonus Tips: How to Unlock, Remove or Bypass iCloud Activation Lock on iPhone

There are times when your iPhone is locked with Apple ID and you can’t unlock or activate it. This could happen when you forgot your Apple ID or password, or when you bought a second-hand iPhone that is linked to the previous owner’s Apple ID. So, how to unlock iCloud activation lock without Apple ID? Here you can use iCloud activation unlocker tool to remove the Apple ID without password.

UltFone Activation Unlocker is a legal tool to remove the iCloud lock. The main features of this software include:

  • Remove iCloud lock without prevous owner.
  • Turn off Find My iPhone without password.
  • Help you access your device after being hacked.
  • Support iPhone 5s to iPhone X.
  • Supoprt from iOS 12 to iOS/iPadOS 14 (iOS 14 for iPhone 6s/6s Plus/SE 1st/iPad 5th/iPad Mini 4/iPad Pro 1st).

It is worth mentioning that your iOS device will become jailbreak after using this software. And if it will be activation locked again if you restart/reset/upgrade your device after bypassing iCloud activation lock. After activation lock removal, you can access to all features in your device except for the function of phone call, cellular data and log in to iCloud of new Apple ID from Settings. However, you can sign in a new Apple ID through App Store to download apps via Wi-Fi.

Here is a guide of how to use this tool for iCloud lock unlock.

    Step 1. Download this tool to a PC or Mac computer, and connect your iCloud locked device to computer via USB cable.

Step 2. This software provides a jailbreak tool. Wait for the jailbreak tool to be downloaded and follow the onscreen instructions to complete the jailbreak process.

Step 3. When the jailbreak completes, click the Start Remove button to start removing the activation lock.

The Bottom Line

From the above words you are about to understand that unlocking iPhone immediately is easier than what you think. Hope you could master the paid or free iPhone unlock service 2023 and leave your Комментарии и мнения владельцев once you have any doubts. And for iPhone iCloud activation lock unlock, UltFone Activation Unlocker is the best choice.

  • Remove activation lock without previous owner
  • Log in App Store with new Apple ID after activation lock removal
  • Compatible with iOS devices from iPhone 5S to iPhone X
  • Fully support iOS 12.3-13.6

[Full Guide] How to Jailbreak Your iPhone to Unlock Carrier

Brandon Wood

Phone Unlock

May 22, 2023

How to jailbreak iPhone to unlock carrier is a highly sought-after question among users. It allows you to switch carriers or SIM cards if your phone has been locked to one network carrier. Apple’s tight security measures and stipulations can make it challenging to regain complete control of your device, but jailbreaking the iPhone is often considered the only way out when seeking freedom from its restrictions.

Before you jailbreak your iPhone, you will likely ask yourself a question like, does jailbreaking an iPhone unlock the Carrier? The answer is yes! Unlocking the iPhone’s Carrier through a jailbreak grants more freedom than ever. We are delighted to provide some helpful advice on methods of unlocking an iPhone by Jailbreaking. Continue reading for more information!

Part 1. The Meaning of Jailbreaking and Unlocking Carrier

Jailbreaking your iPhone is an innovative way to boost its capabilities by permitting the installation of unofficial apps. This process requires a special tool that inserts specific files into your device, thus enabling firmware modifications and ultimately unlocking amazing new features for you to explore!

The ONLY Way To Unlock Any iPhone From Any Carrier

Unlocking an iPhone is not the same as jailbreaking. By unlocking your device, you are freeing it from the restrictions imposed by a carrier. Let’s say you purchased your phone through ATT in the US or any other provider across the world; this would mean that you can’t use it with any network apart from them initially. However, once unlocked, these boundaries no longer exist, and you can access all carriers worldwide!

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Part 2. Why Jailbreak iPhone to Unlock Carrier

Why bother unlocking carrier for your device? There are several good reasons:

To Break From a Phone Contract

If you’re tied to a carrier that doesn’t meet your needs, or if the monthly charges are too high for your wallet, then unlocking your iPhone is the ideal solution. With this newfound freedom, you can switch to a better provider and save money.

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To Use an Affordable Carrier

An unlocked iPhone offers many opportunities to save money on your phone plan. You can select from a multitude of carriers that provide the same network services as your current provider to allow you to keep the same service while paying less!

To Utilize a Local Carrier After Relocating

Exploring foreign countries can be cost-effective when you use a local mobile carrier instead of your home provider. Unlocking your iPhone and inserting the locally purchased SIM card is an easy and affordable way to stay connected while on vacation!

If You Want to Sell Your iPhone

If you want to make the most from selling your iPhone, unlocking it will be beneficial. This is because an unlocked device can accommodate any network provider, thus boosting its value in the eyes of prospective buyers. (How to erase iPhone data before selling?)

Part 3. Does Jailbreaking an iPhone Unlock the Carrier

Jailbreaking and unlocking are two separate processes. It’s crucial to understand that jailbreaking provides the phone owner unrestricted access to the kernel of their device’s operating system. Therefore, you must begin by breaking through limitations found on your phones with a process called jailbreaking. After doing this necessary step, you can proceed to the next phase of unlocking your device’s Carrier.

To free yourself from your current network provider, the first step is jailbreaking your iPhone. But what does it take to do so? In this article, you’ll learn about the process of jailbreaking an iPhone for Carrier unlocking in detail.

Part 4. The Risks of Using Jailbreak to Unlock Your SIM

Does Not Provide a Permanent Solution

One of the drawbacks of jailbreaking a phone is that it isn’t permanent. The minute you decide to upgrade your system, any jailbreak features go away. If you’ve opted for another SIM card, it will fail to work, meaning you’ll be back under the thumb of the Carrier whom you were desperate to escape from!

Quite Risky

In this era of digital technology, failing to upgrade your iOS devices is equivalent to leaving the front door open in a high-risk area.

You Lose Your Device’s Warranty

Although jailbreaking might be tolerated in some sense, Apple does not endorse it. If you decide to do so, your phone will no longer qualify for warranty coverage, which could be costly if something goes wrong with an expensive device like the iPhone. Therefore, think twice before jailbreaking and consider what’s best for your wallet!

Lack of Applications

Numerous superior and important application companies decline the use of their applications on jailbroken phones since they are unusually vulnerable to hacking. This makes you depend upon amateur-made apps, which may put your device in peril.

Part 5. How to Unlock iPhone with Jailbreak

Method 1. Jailbreaking Your SIM Card Via Carrier

Many people are unaware of the simplest and most widely used method of unlocking a SIM card. By law, carriers must remove any carrier locks after 12-14 months. However, you don’t need to wait that long as there is now an easy way for anyone to jailbreak their SIM card!

Because this law does not benefit SIM carrier companies, they wait for customers to contact them. Once a customer calls, the company often has attractive packages ready to entice users and keep their non-network SIM cards active. If you plan on reaching your SIM carrier, be sure to have these details readily available:

  • Your iPhone’s IMEI.
  • Phone Number.
  • Social Security Number or ID.
  • The Account Name.

Once you have all the relevant information, call and request your NUC (Network Unlock Code) and follow the instructions. To make sure that it is possible to move your phone number to a different SIM card later on, be sure to ask for a PAC (Porting Authorisation Code). It’s highly recommended!

Method 2. How to Jailbreak iPhone to Use Any Carrier Using XSIM or RSIM

This method is becoming increasingly popular amongst iPhone owners as it provides a more straightforward way to unlock phones and keep them running on any network. XSIM and RSIM have detailed instructions online, making the process clear. However, it can still be tricky to figure out precisely what needs to be done. Follow the below simple steps:

Step 1. To use the R-SIM card, remove your existing SIM card from its tray. Subsequently, place the new R-SIM directly beneath the regular SIM before sliding it and its respective tray back into your iPhone.

Step 2. Power on the iPhone and press your device’s Home button.

Step 3. Select the emergency call option and type in either 50057672003 or 500576720#. Finally, press the green dial button to complete your call.

Step 4. Select the Edit ICCID option and key in the 20 digits ICCID code provided by the seller.

Now you will have Jailbroken your iPhone using this method, and you can use it with the network provider of your choice.

Note: If you receive a notification stating SIM Not Supported, simply reboot your iPhone, and the message should vanish. Upon seeing a No Service alert, navigate to the menu of SIM applications, then tap on Regain SIM signal. After unlocking your phone, ensure you consistently keep the R-SIM card in place. Never factory reset, as this will erase all previous settings! Additionally, do not use two R-SIM cards concurrently.

Method 3. iPhone Carrier Unlock Jailbreak Using IMEI

IMEI unlock is a legal way to jailbreak your SIM card with any carrier worldwide, and it’s permanently effective. All you need for the process is your iPhone’s IMEI, which can be found in two simple ways: checking it through the settings application or dialing #06# on the keypad. Unlocking your iPhone through this method will give you complete access without spending thousands of dollars! Follow the below steps to use this method:

Step 1. Find Your Device’s IMEI Number. You can get the IMEI number of your device by dialing #06# using the device’s keypad. You can also use the Settings application by launching it, tapping on the General option, and finally tapping on the About button.

Step 2. To unlock your iPhone with AppleiPhoneUnlock, simply go to the official website and select your Carrier and country from the list. After entering your device’s IMEI number, click Unlock for Any SIM to proceed toward payment.

Step 3. AppleiPhoneUnlock will create a request to unlock your device in the Apple activation database. In just 1 to 5 days, you’ll receive an email informing you that your iPhone has been unlocked. Once connected to the internet, your mobile phone’s full Activation will be sent Over the air. After that, you will be ready to go with your new liberated iPhone!

Part 6. How to Unlock Carrier on iPhone with One Click

Are you looking for a professional, effective, and straightforward way to unlock your iPhone without losing data? iOS Unlock is the answer! This all-in-one unlocking solution is fast, easy, and secure. iOS Unlock promises to unlock any iPhone, from old to new models. It also unlocks all SIM cards from different carriers and countries worldwide. In addition, you don’t have to worry about voiding your warranty since the process is reversible without leaving any traces.

The below features make using iOS Unlock the most reliable and convenient method of unlocking a carrier on iPhone:

  • Removes SIM locks with only a few steps.
  • It does not require Jailbreak to bypass iCloud activations.
  • Unlocks Touch ID, Face ID, Apple ID, iTunes Backup Password, and Screen Time Passcode without a password.
  • No data is lost when bypassing MDM locks or removing MDM profiles.
  • No carrier restrictions when Unlocking iPhones.
  • Its simple three steps procedure does not require technical know-how.
  • Widely compatible with all iOS devices, including iPhone 14/13/12/11/X/8/7/6, iPad Pro/Air/4/mini/2, and iPod touch.

Below are the steps for unlocking your iPhone carrier with iOS Unlock:

01 Download the iOS Unlock Software and install it onto your computer. Launch it and select Screen Unlock from the list of options across the homepage.

02 On the next page, tap the Remove SIM Locked option from the available tools.

03 Use a Lighting Cable to Connect your iPhone to the computer. Now that your iOS device is ready to be SIM unlocked, press Start and let the unlocking process begin,

04 Subsequently, the platform will recognize your iPhone and provide a list of related information. Make sure to authenticate all displayed details before tapping on Unlock Now.

05 To liberate your iPhone from the restrictions of its current operating system, you must jailbreak it first. This method is suitable for model iPhones 5S to X running iOS versions 12.0 to 14.8.1 and requires no technical skill.

06 To proceed, you’ll need to perform a few steps on your iOS device. Begin by removing the SIM card and navigating into Settings. Select Forget This Network for all previous networks connected with this device in the WLAN section. After that’s completed, switch off WLAN before inserting the SIM card back inside the phone, then click Continue from your computer system to finalize these changes!

07 The SIM unlocking process will begin while the progress is displayed on the status bar.

08 Unlocking your iOS device is now complete! With just a few taps, all the limits of SIM carriers will be removed. To finish the process, click Done to confirm that you’ve unlocked your device’s SIM lock.

Conclusion

Navigating the world with your iPhone is now more convenient than ever, thanks to jailbreaking. Most tools on the market lack the prowess to unlock carrier procedures for recent iOS versions. However, you don’t need to step back if you want to unlock your phone through Jailbreak. It’s legal! For an easy and reliable way of jailbreaking iPhones to unlock their carriers, we would highly recommend iOS Unlock. All SIM-unlocking issues can be solved by this tool quickly and safely.

Related Articles:

How to Jailbreak Your iPhone to Unlock Carrier

Jailbreaking your iOS device will allow you to explore all of its features and unlock some locks on the device, like the carrier lock. By doing this, you will be able to install third-party apps, find ways to fix your device’s bugs, and take advantage of your phone’s full potential. However, one of the biggest advantages of jailbreak is to unlock iPhone carrier so that you can use any SIM card you want.

In this article, you are going to learn how to jailbreak your iPhone to unlock carrier in the most reliable way. Therefore, when you want to use a SIM card from a different carrier, you will be able to do it in a matter of minutes.

Now our product WooTechy iSalvor has released a new version for SIM unlocking. Try it if you want to unlock the carrier lock by the reliable jailbreaking way!

Does Jailbreak Remove Carrier Lock

Yes, it does. One of the most common solutions to many iOS devices’ issues is jailbreaking the iPhones. The same solution can also be applied to remove the carrier lock. After completing the jailbreak, you can use any mobile network without having to use the SIM card of your initial carrier. However, many iOS users are afraid to do it since it is a challenging process for those who are not familiar with technology. That’s why there is a need for a reliable tool to help them with jailbreak.

Why Can Jailbreak Unlock iPhone Carrier

Jailbreaking is a process that truly unlocks your iPhone carrier, proved by many users. And the theory behind it is to uninstall the previous firmware on your device and then install a cracked version. This version has been modified and thus the restrictions of some locks and permissions have been removed as well. When you unlock the iPhone carrier via jailbreak, you will have access to everything your device has not offer before. However, this process is irreversible, meaning that you need to complete it correctly to enjoy the freedom it gives you.

As you may realize, this process takes some time and money to complete. However, there is now a new method with which you can remove the carrier lock via jailbreak in a single day. That is to use the third-party SIM unlocking software.

How to Unlock iPhone Carrier via Jailbreak

Our new application, WooTechy iSalvor, now makes it easy for you to bypass the carrier lock on your iPhone without spending much time or effort. iSalvor takes advantage of the Checkra1n, a reliable jailbreak tool that supports iOS 12.0 – 14.8.1. Most importantly, it simplifies the steps and strengthens the safety of the whole process as we all know that your device is vulnerable during the jailbreak. In this way, it can remove the network lock while keep your device in a safe status.

The success rate of this tool is extremely high and a 30-day money-back guarantee is always available for you.

How to unlock an iPhone

If you’re thinking of moving from your current network provider to a new one, while keeping hold of your iPhone, or you’ve picked one up second-hand, you may find that the device is locked to your current carrier or network provider. While this could be a huge pain in the past, the good news is that it’s usually much easier to unlock an iPhone these days.

iphone, carrier, lock, removal

You should be able to get your network provider to unlock the iPhone for you; often for free. In fact, you might even be able to do it yourself.

In this article we show how to unlock any iPhone model, either with an unlock code from the network itself (which is usually free and easy) or by using a third-party service like Doctor SIM.

Unlocking an iPhone will soon be a thing of the past, as Ofcom has announced that all providers will be banned from locking devices to their network by the end of 2021. But obviously this won’t necessarily affect all devices already in circulation. So, for now, you’ll need to follow the steps outlined in this article to get your iPhone unlocked.

We’re focusing on unlocking an iPhone tied to a UK carrier, but for those in the US, visit our sister site’s article on how to unlock an iPhone.

Should you be looking for help on gaining access to data on a device in the sad event of its owner dying, you can read how to unlock an iPhone, iPad or Mac when its owner passes away.

Is iPhone unlocking legal?

It’s completely legal to unlock your iPhone if you’ve finished paying for your contract or you purchased it outright, unsubsidised. However, if you’re still in the process of paying for your contract you don’t fully own the iPhone yet, so you’re best to check with your carrier before unlocking it.

Is my iPhone locked?

Usually, if your iPhone is locked you’ll see a message saying something like ‘SIM Not Supported’ when you try to set up the device. For more information here’s how to tell if your iPhone is locked.

The reason for the device being locked is most likely if you bought it second-hand or inherited it from a friend or family member. The previous owner may have bought the iPhone as part of a contract, and it’s been standard practice for years that the network provider uses software restrictions to keep the device tied to its service for the duration of the contract.

How to unlock your iPhone

There are four simple steps to take to unlock an iPhone:

  • Contact your provider and request an unlock using the contact details and online tools listed below.
  • If you haven’t got the original SIM, you’ll need to reset the phone before it can be unlocked.
  • Power down the phone, then replace the old SIM card with a SIM from a different network.
  • Check that the iPhone is able to connect a phone call over the new network.

That’s the shortened version, but let’s go through those steps in a bit more detail.

Contact your network provider

Below we will outline separately how to get your iPhone unlocked from each of the UK’s most popular networks. Scroll down to your carrier to find out that company’s specific process.

How to unlock an iPhone on EE

EE states that it will automatically unlock ‘an iPad or iPhone – 18 months after it was sold (or after it was dispatched, if it was a replacement)’. So if you know the purchase date, then you might find that the device will unlock itself very soon. Should this not be the case, then you can still request EE to unlock the device.

If you’ve had your EE account for at least six months and have paid all of your bills to date, EE will unlock your iPhone for you. It’ll cost £8.99 if you’re still within the contract, though, and takes around 72 hours. If your contract has reached it’s end, then EE will unlock the iPhone for free.

If you’re a Pay As You Go customer and have enough credit to pay the £8.99 admin fee, EE will unlock your iPhone for you.

If you’ve bought the iPhone second-hand, say from eBay, then EE will unlock it for you at a cost of £8.99. It does stipulate, ‘As long as the second-hand device is more than six months old and has not been reported lost or stolen then we can unlock it’

The process is quite straightforward. All you need to do is call 0800 956 6000 then select options 2 followed by 4. You’ll be required to undergo a security test (to prevent anyone stealing your iPhone and unlocking it) after which you’ll be given the unlocking instructions.

You’ll find all the information you need on EE’s How do I unlock an EE device to use with another network? page.

How to unlock an iPhone on Vodafone

Vodafone states on its site that all Apple products issued by the company are already unlocked.

Should you find this isn’t the case, then you’ll need to get a Network Unlock Code from Vodafone. Before attempting this, be aware that the company states, ‘Unfortunately, if you bought your phone from a different provider or e.g. Carphone Warehouse, we can’t unlock it. You will have to contact them directly.’

So it could be that the device is locked by the other provider rather than Vodafone.

If you’re thinking of handing on your iPhone to someone else, and are worried that it might be locked to your Vodafone account, you can use Vodafone’s online unlocking form to complete the process. The company claims it usually manages to unlock your device within 72 hours, but that in some cases it may be up to 10 days depending on the circumstances. The process is free.

How to unlock an iPhone on Three

Three keeps things nice and simple. On its website, the carrier states that any iPhone purchased after 1 January 2014 from Three is automatically unlocked as soon as you connect it to Wi-Fi or iTunes/the Finder (depending on the version of macOS you are using).

But even if you purchased your iPhone before that, you simply need to connect the iPhone to iTunes/the Finder and restore the device to unlock it. You’ll want to back up first, though, as restoring will wipe all the data.

Alternatively, you can fill out Three’s online form.

How to unlock an iPhone on O2

If you or the original owner purchased your iPhone from O2 after 1 August 2018, it’s likely to be unlocked already.

Should you find you still can’t use another SIM with it, then (if you are an existing O2 customer) you can follow these steps:

Log in to My O2 on your browser. Select ‘’ in the menu bar at the top of the page, followed by ‘Unlock your device’. Now follow the instructions to get your iPhone unlocked.

Alternatively there’s the Live Chat feature on the O2 site, although you’ll need to have your IMEI ready ( here’s how to find it).

The whole process is explained clearly on the Unlocking an O2 mobile for use on a different network page of the company website.

The company says it will send a text to let you know when the iPhone is unlocked. You just need to pop the new SIM card in then and it should show as unlocked. If not, you’ll need to connect the device to iTunes/the Finder with the non-O2 SIM, and iTunes will confirm the unlocking.

How to unlock an iPhone on Virgin Mobile

Virgin says any iPhone purchased from the company will be unlocked already, but some older iPhones models might not. These are iPhone 4 and earlier though, so there’s a very good change your handset is unlocked.

If you are on an iPhone 4, and why not it’s still a great device, then you should still be able to perform a full restore of the device to unlock it. Just be sure to back up your data first so nothing gets lost.

You can read more about how to do the former in our how to factory reset an iPhone and iPad guide.

How to unlock an iPhone on Tesco Mobile

If you’ve been with Tesco Mobile for 12 months or more, or if you’ve completed your contract, you’ll be able to get an unlock code from Tesco for free by using the online form.

How to unlock an iPhone on Giffgaff

Giffgaff has a handy tool that helps you figure out how to free your Apple iPhone from other its own and other networks. It has the wonderful name of Unlockapedia and is well worth exploring.

Using a third-party unlocking service

An alternative to contacting your carrier and asking them to unlock the iPhone is to use a mobile phone unlocking service.

Retailers in most areas will arrange an unlock code for a small fee (usually around £25).

You can also find online services that will unlock your iPhone, but they aren’t always reputable and we would generally advise against it. If you do decide to use one, please make sure you read all the small print before you buy, because they can surprise you with extra bills at the end of the process.

We’ve tried Doctor SIM, which promises to refund you if the unlock is unsuccessful, so that could be an option if you’ve tried all of the methods listed above. Doctor SIM successfully unlocked our phone with no problems and no hidden fees, so we feel confident in recommending them.

How much should I pay?

Ideally you shouldn’t pay anything to unlock your iPhone, because your carrier should unlock it for you for free. But some carriers are still setting admin charges, so you might prefer looking at third-party options. These seem to charge between £10 and £25, and we wouldn’t pay more than that. Shop around if anybody quotes you a higher price.

How to tell if the unlock worked

Once your phone has been unlocked you’ll receive a confirmation from the carrier. Now follow these steps:

  • Power down the phone: hold down the power button (or the power button and volume down, if it’s a Face ID equipped iPhone) and swipe your finger across as directed.
  • Use the SIM card tool (or a straightened paper clip, but preferably the proper tool) to eject the SIM card holder from the side of the phone.
  • Remove the old SIM card from the card holder. Place your new SIM – from a different network – into the card holder.
  • Reinsert the SIM card holder into the iPhone.
  • Make a phone call, and check that the iPhone is able to connect over the new network. If so, it’s unlocked!

How to update an unlocked phone without the SIM card

If you’ve requested an unlock from your carrier, but have not got the original SIM card, or if you have acquired a locked iPhone from someone else, you may need to reset the phone before it will be unlocked. Follow these steps to reset the iPhone:

  • Back up your iPhone to iCloud or via iTunes/the Finder.
  • Erase your iPhone. Click on Settings General Transfer or Reset iPhone Erase All Content and Settings.
  • Complete the setup assistant and restore from your backup.

The phone should now be unlocked.

When you turn the iPhone back on, complete the setup assistant and restore it from the backup you created. Then you can insert the new SIM card and it should now work.

And there we have it! Your iPhone should be unlocked and free for use on any network. If you’re interested in repeating the process for your tablet, we’ve got a separate guide for those who wish to unlock an iPad.

If you’re thinking of moving your old iPhone on to someone else, you should also read how and where to sell your old iPhone for the best price for some tips on resetting it and getting the best deal.

What Does SIM Locked Mean How to Remove SIM Lock?

If you visit Amazon, Walmart, or any other online shopping sites, you may find Unlocked cell phones, including iPhone and Android smartphones. So, you might have the question, what does an unlocked phone mean? Here in this article, we are looking at a few points, including unlocked phone meaning, SIM locks, how to remove SIM locks, etc.

What Does SIM Locked Mean?

When we look into the point of Unlocked SIM, then the main thing to be considered and answered is, what does SIM lock mean? So let’s see that first. SIM lock is a software restriction added to the service provider’s smartphone or cell phone. These restrictions were imposed to restrict mobile phone use with other network providers’ SIM cards.

You might have noticed that some mobile service providers, like ATT, Verizon, T-Mobile, etc., sometimes offer bundled packages that include a cell phone and prepaid or postpaid connection. In this case, the company provides the smartphone at a comparatively lower price. And if any provider offers the bundled connection, they put some restrictions on the smartphone with some software restrictions.

As a result, the same smartphone cannot be used with any other SIM card. The phone will only work with the bundled SIM card and not other SIM cards. This refers to SIM locks. We can say that the particular handset is locked with the service provider’s SIM card. No other SIM card will work with that cell phone unless it is SIM Unlocked.

Why the SIM Locked Devices Introduced?

The SIM lock and the SIM locked devices were implemented initially by Apple in collaboration with ATT. Initially; the intention was to restrict the user to stick to the same service provider, primarily until the initial contract ends. However, in partnership with the device manufacturers, some telecom service providers sell the handsets with some data plans as bundled plans. As a result, the handset price will be less than the regular price.

However, once the user purchases the bundled device and data pack, they need to stay on the same service provider for a particular time. The device will be SIM-locked or network locked during that time, preventing the user from switching providers. The user can’t replace the SIM. Once the contract ends, the service provider will share the SIM Unlock code that can be used to Unlock the device. Once the network lock is removed, the device can be used with any other SIM and exported to another country without any issue.

What Does it Mean When a Phone is Unlocked

It is just opposite to what we explained in the above part. Since SIM locking is added as a smartphone restriction to prevent it from getting used on other networks can cause many drawbacks. Thus service providers decided to offer an official SIM unlocking option. As a result, any locked SIM can get unlocked easily, and if a device gets opened, it can be used as a regular cell phone and can be used with any SIM card per the user’s choice.

So, if you are using a Simlock-enabled handset and wish to remove the SIM lock on your iPhone or Android device, now you can remove the SIM lock officially itself without any third-party software or tools. We will let you know how to remove the SIM lock on ATT, T Mobile, and Verizon networks.

Why SIM Unlocking is Important and Benefits of Removing SIM Lock

As we said above, a SIM lock enables a service provider to prevent their customer from using the smartphone with other service provider’s SIM cards. This ensures each provider that the device is only being used with the initial SIM card. Because it is not compatible with any other SIM card, this locking also creates many disadvantages.

  • If the SIM lock is enabled, the handset cannot be used with other SIM cards. So customers have to stick to the existing plan itself.
  • If someone wishes to sell the handset or gift the mobile, it is impossible as no one prefers to buy a locked handset.
  • If you are holding a SIM-locked mobile and traveling to another country, you may face some issues, as you can’t insert a local SIM card on your device during your journey.

If you remove the SIM lock, all the issues can be resolved and used as a standard SIM in any country.

How to Remove SIM Lock

You can remove the SIM lock on ATT, T-Mobile, US Cellular, and Verizon network. If you find it tricky to do it by yourself, you could opt for a reputable service from a provider like Mobile Unlocked US, but there are many to choose from.

Unlock SIM on ATT

If your att unlock status is disabled, you can unlock it by visiting the official website. Before proceeding, you need to note the IMEI number by dialing #06#. Then proceed to the official website and provide some basic details, including ATT mobile number and some related account information to unlock your ATT mobile phone.

SIM Unlock on T-Mobile Network

If you are a T-Mobile user with an Android device, you can unlock the mobile from the Network Setting area. Go to settings, Network setting, and click on Unlock option. Make sure your device is listed in the eligible handsets to unlock.

Unlocking the iPhone can only be done by submitting the request, and T-Mobile will do it for you.

Remove SIM Lock on US Cellular

US Cellular has an extended lock period for the locked device. If you purchase a new iPhone or Samsung device from USCellular, the default lock period is 120 days, and you can only unlock the device after 120 days.

Unlock Verizon Smartphones

Verizon Mobile offers an auto-unlock feature for all its phone. The device will be locked for 60 days from activation if you purchase a prepaid or postpaid Verizon mobile. After the 60 days lock person, the phone will get automatically unlocked. And after that, the SIM never locks again, and you can use it without restriction.

Verizon offers relaxation in 60 days if you are a military person. You can request to unlock the SIM lock anytime, and Verizon will do it for you.

Is SIM Unlocking is safe?

SIM unlocking is entirely safe. It is not like rooting the device. Locked devices are those having some restrictions embedded by the service provider. If the lock is removed, you can use the device anywhere. So there is no security issue with SIM-unlocked handsets.

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How to Remove SIM Lock on iPhone

You can remove the SIM lock on iPhone by disabling the SIM Pin. First, open the Settings app and tap on the Mobile Data option on your iPhone. Then, tap on the SIM PIN option from the Mobile Data section.

Disable the SIM PIN option from the SIM PIN section, and the SIM PIN will be removed for the active SIM Card on your iPhone.

How to get the SIM Unlock Code

The mobile service provider can collect the SIM Lock Code or the SIM PIN. So you need to reach the customer support of your respective mobile service provider and request them to issue the SIM Unlock code. First, however, they will verify the mobile number ownership by asking a few questions, and the code will be shared upon the validation.

Is it Safe to Purchase a SIM-Locked Phone?

Even though the SIM lock can be removed, it is recommended not to buy a SIM Locked Phone. If you get an unlocked phone, there won’t be an issue. However, if you get a SIM-locked phone, then you may find it challenging to get it unlocked easily.

What is SIM Locked iPhone Meaning?

Since iPhone is the loved phone for most smartphone users, we can see people searching for iPhones at low prices. And while looking for a budget iPhone, we can see SIM-locked iPhones at low prices. Here the question is what SIM Locked iPhone Means. Those are carrier-locked iPhone that is exclusive to some regions and networks. Those iPhones cannot be used outside that particular country without unlocking. So, only prefer an unlocked iPhone, not a locked one, as it requires additional effort and money to get it working.

Can i Purchase SIM Locked iPhone

It is always recommended not to buy a SIM-locked iPhone. However, if you received a SIM-locked iPhone and wish to use it with another network, you can visit any authorized iPhone store to get it fixed and unlocked. As said, make sure to buy SIM unlocked iPhone if you are going to buy a used iPhone.

My iPhone 14 Doesn’t Have a Physical SIM Card. How to Unlock iPhone 14

On iPhone 14, Apple removed the physical SIM support in the United States. iPhone 14 users in the United States need to use eSIM instead of a standard physical SIM card. However, the iPhone SIM Lock and Unlock are done by the carrier, as before. To unlock iPhone 14, you need to contact your carrier and obtain the Unlock code to completely remove the SIM lock on iPhone 14.

Does the eSIM can Prevent the SIM Lock Issue?

Both standard and eSIM have the same options and work as per carrier support. In the case of a standard SIM, you will get a physical SIM, and with eSIM, you can’t see it. It is virtual. That is the only difference; hence, you can’t prevent the SIM Lock Issue using an eSIM in the Place of a standard SIM Card.

Is it Legally Safe to Buy Unlocked Smartphones

It is legal and safe if you purchase an unlocked smartphone from an official website or a shop. However, never buy locked and unlocked smartphones fromy untrusted websites or persons. Sometimes the product you buy might come from the black market, and you may find difficulty in the future. So always purchase unlocked and locked smartphones from trusted sellers.

Locked SIM iPhone Official Support?

A locked SIM iPhone is a tricky area. If you purchase a SIM-locked iPhone from service providers like ATT, Verizon, etc., then you will get official support from Apple and the service provider. However, if you use such iPhone in any other region, you will not get official support since the phone is region locked. Unlocking will break the warranty.

This article was last modified on July 13, 2023