What is a SIMLock
SIM lock:
A SIM-LOCK, NETWORK LOCK, CARRIER LOCK, IMEI LOCK or (MASTER) SUBSIDY lock is really a technical limit built into CDMA and GSM mobile phone devices by producers to be used by carrier networks to limit using these phones to a particular locations and/or networks. This is as opposed to a mobile phone (retrospectively called SIM-free or unlocked) that doesn't enforce any SIM constraints.
Almost all mobiles can be unlocked to work with any GSM mobile phone network provider, however the phone can still show the original logos and may not support popular features of the new service provider. Aside from the locking, mobile phones can also have firmware that come with them which is specific to the network provider. This firmware is installed through the service provider and is separate from the locking mechanism. Most cell phones can be unbranded by re-flashing a different firmware type, a process suitable for advanced users only.
Unlocking Technology:
Typically, a locked device will display a message if a restricted SIM is used, asking for the unlock code. On recent phone models working on Android operating system software, the mobile phone will display a message saying “SIM network unlock PIN” or “Enter Network Lock Control Key” if it is network locked. Windows phones should display the message, “This SIM card can only be used on specific networks. Contact your customer service center for the unlock code”. Some other devices might show assorted messages for example , "Enter special code" or "Enter unlocking code," or in some cases the mobile will simply present a message saying it's locked. Whenever a valid code is typed in, the mobile phone handset will display "Network unlocked” or “Network unlock successful”.
Economics:
The main reason to unlock a device is going to be able to use it with another type of SIM card. Consumers may need to carry on using their phone but with a new service or if traveling in another country they might want to connect to a foreign network using a pre-paid subscription.
Unlocking Services:
Plenty of organizations provide a online phone unlocking service . This service needs all those who wish to unlock a handset to give their IMEI number to a service supplier and sometimes they will also request the country and cellular network the mobile phone is locked to, sometimes sent by email or submitted on their website. The company will then supply (in return for a fee) the unlock code for the device.
Unlocking Service Providers:
Disappointingly there are a multitude of dodgy on line retailers active in the smart phone network unlocking industry. Consequently it is recommended to be certain you find a honest supplier for such a service. To assist with a search for a legitimate supplier, we have provided an inventory below (and in no particular order) of a few legitimate organizations currently offering such services.
Reputable Mobile Phone IMEI Unlocking Service Providers:
A SIM-LOCK, NETWORK LOCK, CARRIER LOCK, IMEI LOCK or (MASTER) SUBSIDY lock is really a technical limit built into CDMA and GSM mobile phone devices by producers to be used by carrier networks to limit using these phones to a particular locations and/or networks. This is as opposed to a mobile phone (retrospectively called SIM-free or unlocked) that doesn't enforce any SIM constraints.
Almost all mobiles can be unlocked to work with any GSM mobile phone network provider, however the phone can still show the original logos and may not support popular features of the new service provider. Aside from the locking, mobile phones can also have firmware that come with them which is specific to the network provider. This firmware is installed through the service provider and is separate from the locking mechanism. Most cell phones can be unbranded by re-flashing a different firmware type, a process suitable for advanced users only.
Unlocking Technology:
Typically, a locked device will display a message if a restricted SIM is used, asking for the unlock code. On recent phone models working on Android operating system software, the mobile phone will display a message saying “SIM network unlock PIN” or “Enter Network Lock Control Key” if it is network locked. Windows phones should display the message, “This SIM card can only be used on specific networks. Contact your customer service center for the unlock code”. Some other devices might show assorted messages for example , "Enter special code" or "Enter unlocking code," or in some cases the mobile will simply present a message saying it's locked. Whenever a valid code is typed in, the mobile phone handset will display "Network unlocked” or “Network unlock successful”.
Economics:
The main reason to unlock a device is going to be able to use it with another type of SIM card. Consumers may need to carry on using their phone but with a new service or if traveling in another country they might want to connect to a foreign network using a pre-paid subscription.
Unlocking Services:
Plenty of organizations provide a online phone unlocking service . This service needs all those who wish to unlock a handset to give their IMEI number to a service supplier and sometimes they will also request the country and cellular network the mobile phone is locked to, sometimes sent by email or submitted on their website. The company will then supply (in return for a fee) the unlock code for the device.
Unlocking Service Providers:
Disappointingly there are a multitude of dodgy on line retailers active in the smart phone network unlocking industry. Consequently it is recommended to be certain you find a honest supplier for such a service. To assist with a search for a legitimate supplier, we have provided an inventory below (and in no particular order) of a few legitimate organizations currently offering such services.
Reputable Mobile Phone IMEI Unlocking Service Providers:
