Unlocking your new cell phone is easy if you have the right codes.
When you purchase a cell phone, it is usually locked to a specific network. This prevents you from switching to another carrier even after your contract is up. This also prevents you from using your phone abroad without incurring exorbitant roaming charges. So if you wish to switch companies or you want to use your phone while traveling, you will need to get it unlocked.
Instructions
1. Find your IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identification) number for the cell. You can do this in two ways. You can remove the battery of the phone and look at the sticker beneath it. This will have the IMEI written on it. You can also dial *#06# and the 15-digit code will appear. Write this code down, as you will need it later to get the unlock code.
2. Find a site that will sell you unlock codes for your new cell phone. Three that you can choose from include GSMLiberty, Unlocking, and UnlocktoTalk (see Resources). You can purchase a code from any of these sites for a fee of between $9.99 and $29.99 as of 2010.
3. Type in your IMEI code in the site that you have chosen to purchase your codes. From the drop-down box, select the "Make" and "Model," choose the country where the cell phone is registered and the service provider and click "Submit."
4. Put in your payment information along with your main email address and click on "Purchase Codes." These sites will accept Visa, Mastercard or Paypal.
5. Check your email in one or two days and your unlock codes will be delivered. Open up the email and write down the code exactly as you see it.
6. Turn your phone off and take out the battery. Then take out the memory (SIM card). Replace it with a card from a different network. You can either purchase one from a convenience store or borrow one from a friend's phone.
7. Replace the battery and turn your phone back on. Type in the unlock code as you see it. The phone will beep, blink and restart. When it comes back on, the name of the new network will appear at the top of the screen. Your new cell phone is now unlocked.
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