How to unlock your mobile phone
Dan Howdle • September 3rd, 2024
Unlocking your phone used to be crucial for switching networks and getting the best deals, but with recent changes in regulations and mobile provider practices, it's less relevant for most users. However, in some situations, it can still be useful.
The need to unlock your phone has decreased significantly in recent years due to regulatory changes and shifts in mobile provider policies. Most new phones now come unlocked by default. However, if you have an older device or are looking to use your phone abroad, you might still need to unlock it. Here's how to do it.
Before you get started
If you bought your phone recently, it’s likely already unlocked. Thanks to regulations, such as those from Ofcom in the UK, all new phones sold by major providers like EE, O2, and Vodafone must be sold unlocked. To check if your phone is locked, insert a SIM card from another provider. If the phone works as usual, it’s unlocked. If it displays a message like ‘incompatible SIM’, ‘enter subsidy PIN’, or ‘enter network unlock code’, it’s locked.
If your phone is locked, the first step in unlocking it is to find your IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number. This 15-digit number is unique to your device and is required for unlocking. To find it, dial *#06# on your phone. It’s wise to keep a note of this number in case it’s needed during the unlocking process.
Ways to unlock your phone
With the major shift toward unlocked phones, fewer people need to go through the unlocking process. However, if you do need to unlock your phone, here are the current methods:
- Check with your mobile provider (often unnecessary)
- Use third-party services if needed
- Unlock for free using online databases for older phones
Check with your mobile provider (often unnecessary)
In the UK, most new phones are sold unlocked, so contacting your mobile provider to unlock your phone is often unnecessary. However, if you have an older device, your provider might still be able to help. With new regulations, this service is usually free, especially if your contract has ended.
Use third-party services if needed
If your provider can't unlock your phone, or if you're dealing with an older or second-hand device, you might need to use a third-party unlocking service. Be cautious when using online services, as there are risks involved, such as scams or receiving incorrect codes. Reputable services usually charge a fee and can unlock your phone within a few days.
Unlock for free using online databases for older phones
For older models, you can often find free unlock codes online. Websites like Giffgaff's Unlockapedia offer a database where you can search for your phone model and potentially find a free unlock code. However, this method is becoming less relevant as most phones are now sold unlocked.
After obtaining your unlock code, simply enter it into your phone, and your device should unlock, allowing you to use it on any network.
Is unlocking your mobile phone still relevant?
The relevance of unlocking your mobile phone has decreased significantly due to changes in mobile provider policies and regulations. Since December 2021, UK mobile providers are required to sell phones unlocked, making the need to unlock your phone largely obsolete for new devices.
However, if you’re using an older phone or a device purchased before these regulations took effect, you may still need to unlock it to switch networks. Additionally, international travelers who want to use local SIM cards in their existing phones might still find unlocking useful.
Why might you still want to unlock your phone?
While most new phones are sold unlocked, there are a few reasons you might still want to unlock an older or second-hand device:
- International Travel: If you’re traveling abroad, an unlocked phone allows you to use local SIM cards, which can save you a significant amount on roaming charges.
- Second-hand Phones: If you’ve purchased a second-hand phone, it might still be locked to the original network, requiring you to unlock it to switch to your preferred provider.
- Flexibility: Unlocking your phone gives you the freedom to switch providers at any time, taking advantage of better deals and network coverage.
In summary
For most people, unlocking a phone is no longer necessary. However, for those with older devices or specific needs like international travel, it can still be a useful process. If you find yourself needing to unlock a phone, your provider is likely your best option, and it’s often free if your contract has ended. For older phones, you can explore online databases for free unlock codes.
