How to Tell If a Phone Is Unlocked: Complete Guide

When we say a phone is "unlocked," it means the device can be used with any carrier. For a locked phone, it is hard to choose your network or switch carriers.

If you're buying a phone, received one as a gift, or plan to sell it, learning how to know if your phone is unlocked can be very useful. Here's how to do it.

How to Check If My Phone Is Unlocked

Believe it or not, checking if a phone is unlocked is easier than it seems. Here are 4 simple ways to find out.

Check Your Phone Settings (the most direct)

If your phone is an iPhone, follow these steps:

If you don't see that message, your iPhone is probably locked. Keep in mind this method only works on iOS 14 or later.

For some Android brands, you can dial a code to check if the phone is unlocked:

• Huawei: Dial *#*#2846579#*#* and call.
• Samsung: Dial *#7465625# and call.
• Sony: Dial *#*#7378423#*#* on the dial pad.

Note: This method is not always 100% reliable, so it's best to double-check using other ways.

Insert a SIM Card from Another Carrier (physical test)

One of the easiest ways to check if your phone is unlocked is by using a SIM card from a different carrier. Here's how:

Now check the following:

✅ If you see signal bars and can use data or make calls: Unlocked

❌ If you see an error message like "SIM not supported," "Network restriction," or no signal: Locked

Tip: Try using a SIM card from a carrier not related to your phone brand. For example, if your phone came from AT&T, test with a T-Mobile or Verizon SIM. On some devices, you may also need to manually set up the APN (Access Point Name) under: Settings > Mobile Networks > APN.

Check Using IMEI (official verification)

The IMEI is a unique ID number for your phone. It can be used to track, block, or verify your device. While it's not tied directly to a carrier, it helps identify the status of your phone.

If the IMEI is blocked, you won't be able to use mobile networks (calls, SMS, 4G/5G), and simply changing the SIM card won't fix it.

Here's how to find your phone's IMEI, which is often printed on the box near the barcode.

Contact Your Carrier (most reliable)

The most reliable way to know if your phone is unlocked is by contacting your carrier. They can confirm if your device is unlocked from the factory or guide you on how to unlock it.

You can call customer service or visit a store. Be ready to provide details like your phone number, IMEI, and account information.

How to Unlock a Locked Phone

If after checking you find out your phone is locked, the next step is unlocking it. Here are your options:

Request an unlock code from your carrier

Your carrier is usually the one that can unlock your phone. Sometimes they do it directly, or they give you an unlock code. Keep in mind, whether or not they unlock it often depends on your contract. Some phones can't be unlocked until certain conditions are met.

Use third-party services

There are apps and online services that claim to unlock phones. Be careful with these options, as not all are free or reliable.

If something goes wrong, your phone could become permanently locked. Also, many of these services require permissions that could put your data at risk.

Rooting or jailbreaking

Rooting (Android) or jailbreaking (iPhone) are advanced modifications made at the system level. These should only be done by experts, since doing it incorrectly can damage your device and make it unusable.

Conclusion

Unlocking your phone so you can use it with any carrier is not only convenient—it's also your right as a consumer. The best way is to contact your carrier directly, as they are the most qualified to do it safely.

Avoid using shady apps or websites, since they may compromise your personal information or damage your device.

FAQs

Why the IMEI shows my phone is unlocked, but it still doesn’t work?

Elsa

If your phone isn't blocked by IMEI but won't turn on, it may be due to a software or hardware issue. In that case, it’s best to take it to a repair center.
If the phone turns on but doesn’t work with another carrier, the best option is to contact your mobile provider directly to confirm if the device is truly unlocked.

Are third-party unlocking tools safe?

Elsa

Not always. Many apps and services are scams designed to steal your information. There’s also the risk that the process may fail, which could damage your phone or simply not unlock it—even if you already paid.

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