Learn how to Unlock Cellphones via IMEI

By Skye Sirhan

If you buy a mobile phone via a cell phone provider, it's actually locked to that company's service. If the company gives you a free or discounted cellphone, you normally have to agree to a one- or two-year contract as well. You can avoid this contract and freely move between networks, and also travel outside of the country and use domestic networks, easily by unlocking your handset using the IMEI code. Following the 3 simple steps below will enable you to unlock your smartphone permanently.

Step 1

Locate the 15-digit IMEI code. This is typically printed on the smartphone underneath the battery. You can also sometimes locate it in your phone's setting page or by entering a specific code to get your mobile phone to show the IMEI number on your screen. Most often, the code is *#06#

Step 2

After you have found the IMEI number of your mobile phone, call your existing network carrier and inquire if they'll provide you with an unlock code. Dependent on your circumstances, they could possibly grant your request. Nonetheless, many service providers often have thier own conditions that need to be fulfilled before they are willing to provide you with an unlock code, and many may possibly refuse. Often, if you have finished your contract, your cellphone provider may give you guidelines on how to factory unlock your cell phone, but in most cases they will insist you're the original owner of the mobile phone (the contract on thier system is in your name). If you are not, for instance, you bought the cellphone used, you must find an alternative unlocking process to unlock your mobile phone.

Step 3

For those who are not the orginal owner of the cell phone, you'll need to purchase an unlock service from a third party service provider. The good news is there are lots of on-line companies offering services merely by providing them with your mobile phone's IMEI code, it's model and make and the network its locked to. The cost of the service and the time it takes to IMEI unlock your cell phone will depend upon the aforementioned factors, and can vary quite significantly for more obscure mobile phones or networks. Utilizing a 3rd party unlocking company is normally the quickest and the most convenient method to permanently unlock your phone, as it will be done remotely without your phone ever having to leave your pocession. As soon as cellphone has been sucessfully unlocked it can then be used on any network and in any country you want.