Are you able to factory unlock your cell phone yourself and is it legal?
So you have inevitably got to the end of your smartphone contract, you've done paying for your pricy cellular phone and you really are set to chose a cheaper SIM-only deal. There's just one issue. Your mobile is locked to your current service provider and unless you can remedy that, you aren't going to be able to get a cheaper option offered by other carriers. So, how can you get your smartphone permanently unlocked and get your pick of the pre-paid deals? Thankfully, it's essentially really simple.
Are you allowed to unlock a phone?
Nothing could possibly be illegal about unlocking your cellphone. It is yours and you are therefore well within your rights to make use of it with any carrier you want. Nevertheless, there's a very good chance carrier unlocking your cellphone will probably end your warranty, so it may very well be best to wait until you've reached the end of your contract before you make your mind up to ditch your existing carrier.
What possible choices do I have if my network provider refuses to unlock my cellphone?
- Third party unlocking websites: There are many supplier that offer to source IMEI unlocks for you, but it's a good idea you read user reviews to get an informed view of how reputable they are before you hand over any hard earned money. Be advised there are quite a few fraudsters offering these services!
- DIY: Certain technically-minded people might possibly be capable to achieve this themselves but is not very easy and will have to have specialized computer software.
- Local shops unlocking providers: You will usually see signs in retail stores, market stalls and even barbers offering cell phone unlocking services and it's common to pay around $45 or above for the service.
How much does it cost to unlock a smartphone?
Some networks won't charge for unlocking support while others may charge about $80. It is also worth taking into account that each carriers has a variety of guidelines connected to how long you have had your monthly or SIM-only agreement for and how to get your IMEI unlock. Just about all networks have online forms, but quite a few will require you to call up their helplines. The length of time it can take to unlock your mobile phone once again differs greatly between each carrier. In the UK, Vodafone for example, will unlock an iPhone in a week, while Virgin Mobile declare it will take up to 30 calendar days to unlock network locked handsets.
Who's the most reliable and fastest 3rd-party unlock provider on the Internet?
If you are not sure which website you can trust, I highly recommend Unlock.Zone. I have used them personally and was really happy with the service I received, and ultimately that they successfully unlocked my mobile phone. They offer unlocks for all major manufacturers and carriers, provide a guaranteed price match promise, but primarily, have a 100% refund policy in the unlikely event they can't unlock your mobile phone.
Visit their website here: Phone Unlocking
Are you able to factory unlock your cell phone yourself and is it legal?
So you have inevitably got to the end of your smartphone contract, you've done paying for your pricy cellular phone and you really are set to chose a cheaper SIM-only deal. There's just one issue. Your mobile is locked to your current service provider and unless you can remedy that, you aren't going to be able to get a cheaper option offered by other carriers. So, how can you get your smartphone permanently unlocked and get your pick of the pre-paid deals? Thankfully, it's essentially really simple.