People who have bought locked phones always ask the same question sooner or later – how does one go about unlocking their phone? Locked phones will never work if you use the sim card of another carrier, which can be a drag for people who want to change carriers to one with lower rates. By unlocking your phone, you will be able to use any kind of cellular carrier and be free from corporate bondage. However, in the past, unlocking a locked phone is illegal but today, thanks to the Congress and FCC, unlocking a phone is now legal. That is why a lot of people with locked phones are unlocking them to free them from exaggerated and hidden fees.
Unlocking any phone is not easy. It may take you some time and a few phone calls but it will be worth it in the end. If you are planning to get your phone unlocked then follow our simple tips to guide you and avoid any unexpected damages on your phone.
- Go to your carrier
Most smartphones today will require you to visit the carrier if you want it unlocked. It is for the carrier’s benefit so that you cannot avoid your unpaid fees. If you are already paid, then unlocking your phone is free but if you still have some balances left then you have to pay them and you might also pay some termination fees as well. Be guided with their unlocking charges if you haven’t paid for your phone to avoid overpricing. Your carrier can also provide you some information that you need if you are planning to get your phone unlocked with some dedicated technicians.
- Prepare the necessary information
Before you can unlock your phone there are some details that you need which many people always forget which causes a delay in the process. Those are the IMEI on your phone, the account number from your carrier and the finished contract or the device payment plan. This is important so that you can prove to your carrier that you have already finished your contract with them and have no balances left. Write down your IMEI number because it is an important detail when you want your phone to be unlocked.
- Find a third party
If the carrier won’t allow you to unlock your phone then you can look for a dedicated unlocker. There are a lot of independent unlockers you can find either on the internet or in any cellular phone repair shops. You can ask cell phone repair shops if they can unlock your phone but you have to pay a higher price compared to the carrier’s price. The best part of this is that, if they can’t unlock your phone, then you don’t have to pay. You should be careful to these third party unlockers especially if they are shady because they might take advantage of you and steal some of your information. Check the shop’s legitimacy to avoid fraud.
- Consult the Internet
If all else fails then you can consult the internet. There is much information on the internet when it comes to unlocking your phone. You might find tutorials very useful but most of them cannot really help you. You should look for websites that give unlocking services for smartphones. If you have found one, before you contact them, check their reputation and legitimacy as well. By doing this, you can be assured that the fee you are going to pay will not be wasted.
For more tips in getting your phone unlocked now then visit Why the Lucky Stiff, a blog full of informative and easy to follow steps on how to get the job done.