Is it possible to carrier unlock your mobile by yourself and is it illegal? So you've eventually reached the end of your smartphone contract, you've done paying for your really expensive cell phone and you really are eager to chose a cheaper pre-paid deal. There is just one problem. Your cell phone is locked to your current network and unless you can remedy that, you aren't gonna be able to locate a better value package offered by other networks. So, how will you get your smartphone officially unlocked and get your pick of the SIM-only offers? The good news is, it's really rather easy.
Am I permitted to network unlock a cell phone? You'll find nothing is illegal about unlocking your cellphone. It's your phone and you are clearly within your rights to make use of it with any carrier you wish. Even so, there is a chance network unlocking your phone will void your warranty, so it may be best to hold off until you have completed your contractual obligations before you decide to ditch your existing network.
How do I SIM unlock my mobile?
- High street unlocking services: You will commonly see signs in stores, market stalls and even hairdressers offering smartphone unlocking services and it is common to pay around $25 or more for the service.
- Try it yourself: A few technically-minded consumers may well be able to achieve this on their own but it's not very easy and will have to have specialized computer software.
- Third party unlocking providers: You'll find many supplier that offer to source IMEI unlocks for you, but it's advisable you read user reviews to get an informed perspective of how respected they are before you hand over any hard earned cash. Be warned there are lots of fraudsters offering these products and services!
How much does it actually cost me to unlock a cell phone? A few carriers will not charge for unlocking support while others may well charge about $100. It's also worth taking into account that each networks has numerous policies related to how long you've had your regular or P.A.Y.G. contract for and how to get your IMEI unlock. A large percentage of networks have online forms, but a number of will advise you to call their helplines. The time it could take to unlock your mobile phone yet again differs broadly between each carrier. In the UK, Three for example, will unlock an iPhone in a week, while Plusnet declare it might take up to 45 calendar days to unlock IMEI locked handsets.
Who is the most reliable and cheapest 3rd-party unlocking service provider on-line? If you are not sure who you can trust, I highly recommend Unlock.Zone. I have used them myself personally and was really happy with the service I received, and ultimately that they successfully unlocked my smart phone. They provide unlocks for all major manufacturers and carriers, have a guaranteed price match promise, and first and foremost, have a full refund policy in the unlikely event they can't unlock your smartphone.
Try them out: Unlock Phone
|