How to check if phone is unlocked without SIM

An unlocked phone is simply one that does not have the lock software on it. Once any mobile device is unlocked, you can easily pop out the SIM card and put it in a different SIM card from any other GSM operator and get reliable service.

Knowing how to check whether any phone is unlocked without a SIM is quite essential when purchasing any phone, whether new or used. This is even more important if you are a frequent traveler and would want service when abroad. One reason for doing this is that locked phones don’t give you the chance to switch mobile networks when you are in a different region. Such phones are limited to their respective carriers for a specific period of time until your established contract ends.  In most cases, however, you would need to pay an early termination fee on your contact so that your phone can be eligible for unlocking.

To avoid this hustle, you would rather just get an unlocked phone. Unlocked phones are quite beneficial due to their flexible network structure. The only problem you may encounter is that unlocked phones may cost you a ton during their purchase.

So, if you want to check whether your phone is unlocked with IMEI, using its settings or by contacting support.

So, how can you check whether your phone is unlocked without a SIM card?

Generally, you can always check whether your phone is unlocked with or without a SIM card. Among the multiple options that exist, the method you would use to check whether your phone is unlocked entirely depends on the software that it operates on. In as much so, there are about three main methods through which you can check if your phone is unlocked.

1. Using IMEI to check the lock status of your phone

If you own an Android phone, you would need to get the IMEI number. Most of the time, the IMEI number on Android phones with a removable battery is located on the back panel. If your phones does not have a removable battery, then you may want to dial *#06# on your phone. Also, the IMEI number is displayed on the settings menu of your phone. Once you have gotten the IMEI number of your phone, the next thing you would need to do is to type the 25 digit IMEI number on the field provided for on the IMEI website and select the ‘check a new page’ option. A new page should pop up and it should display all the information about the Android phone that you are using. Next, you should click on the ‘simlock and warranty’ tab. The next information displayed on your screen should give you full details on whether your phone is locked or unlocked.

If you own an iPhone, checking whether your phone is unlocked through the IMEI method may be quite costly for you. What happens is that you would need to use an online carrier checker that may need you to pay a service fee that caters for the retrieving of your phone’s IMEI code. Through the site displayed on the online carrier checker, you can key in the IMEI number that you previously retrieved to check the current lock status of your device. Once you have successfully completed the payment process and have keyed in the IMEI code you received, the lock status of your phone will be sent directly to your email address.

2. Using Settings to check the lock status of your phone

The process is quite similar when using an iPhone or an Android phone. You would need to click on the cellular option on the settings of your phone and sift through the cellular data options. In the event that you are unable to see the cellular data option, it means that your device is unlocked and you will not be able to go through any cellular options and you will not be able to change the carrier networks until you have successfully unlocked your phone.

3. Using Contact support to check the lock status of your phone

Aside from the two options above, you can always check the lock status of your phone by contacting your service provider and inquire about it. You just have to contact you mobile carrier’s customer care and let them know about your request known. The customer service representatives will ask you to provide a few details which they would use to retrieve the lock status of your phone.

A summary table

That said, how can I unlock my phone?

Generally, not all phones come locked. Some manufacturers have both locked and unlocked versions of their mobile devices and it is up to you to pick the one that suits your needs best. If you are ordering your phone online, you should ensure to check through its product specifications to determine its lock status. Also, try to ask the retailer the information about your lock status if you have decided to purchase your phone from an offline outlet.

If you own an Android phone, you can always unlock it on the IMEI website for free but you may need to check with an Apple service center for an iPhone. Also, your mobile service provider can unlock your phone for you.

Conclusion

If you have a SIM, on the other hand, you would need to insert a new SIM into your phone and then try to make a few calls. If it works successfully, then your phone is unlocked.

FAQs

1. Are all Android phones unlocked?

No, you may find some that are locked.

2. Can I have my phone unlocked?

Yes, it is very possible.