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How to Check if an iPhone Is Unlocked

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By Patrick Shawn Hearn Patrick Shawn Hearn Writer Columbus State University Patrick Hearn has been a freelance technology writer for 6+ years. He has written for CBSi, GameSpot, Xfinity, and many others. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on August 27, 2022 Reviewed by Christine Baker Reviewed by Christine Baker Christine Baker is a marketing consultant with experience working for a variety of clients. Her expertise includes social media, web development, and graphic design. lifewire's editorial guidelines Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email

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Expand Jump to a Section Check if iPhone Is Unlocked Settings Check if iPhone Is Unlocked via SIM Card Check if iPhone Is Unlocked Using IMEI Service Frequently Asked Questions

What to Know

Easiest way: Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options. An option like Cellular Data Network indicates an unlocked iPhone. Or, if you're traveling, swap your existing SIM card for a local SIM. If you can make a call, your iPhone is unlocked. Or, enter the iPhone's IMEI number into an online service like IMEI Check and see if your device is unlocked. This article explains how to find out if your iPhone is unlocked, and therefore isn't tied to any one phone company. Methods include checking the iPhone Settings, using a new SIM card, and using an IMEI service.

How to Check if an iPhone Is Unlocked in the Settings Menu

The easiest way to see if your iPhone is unlocked is to check your Settings menu. This method isn't always accurate, but it's a good place to start. Open the Settings app on your iPhone. Tap Cellular > Cellular Data Options. Look for an option called "Cellular Data Network" or "Mobile Data Network." If you see either one of these options, your phone is most likely unlocked. If you don't see these options, your phone is most likely locked.

How to Check if an iPhone Is Unlocked via a SIM Card

Getty Images If you travel overseas, your phone isn't going to work unless you have a truly excellent service plan. The easier and more affordable option is to swap your existing SIM card for a local SIM. This will give you a new phone number to use in that country, but will grant you the ability to use your phone and data on the road. The first step is to power off your iPhone. Removing a SIM card while the device is powered on can damage the phone and the SIM. Locate the SIM card on your iPhone. Look for a small circular opening about the size of a pinhole. Use a SIM card ejector tool to remove the iPhone's SIM card. These tools simplify the process of removing a SIM card, but you can also use a safety pin or a paperclip. Look at how your existing SIM card fits into the tray. Set it to the side in a safe location and place the new SIM card into the tray in the same fashion. Re-insert the tray into the iPhone. Press until you hear a soft click. nerosu / Getty Images Power the iPhone back on. Try to make a call. If your iPhone is able to connect to the network with a new SIM, then it's unlocked. If your phone is unable to connect to the network, then your device is locked. There are several ways to get around this, such as contacting your carrier and asking them to unlock the device, or using a third-party service. Some carriers may charge to unlock a device. However, certain areas have legislation requiring companies to unlock mobile devices free of charge. You're done!

How to Check if an iPhone Is Unlocked Using an IMEI Service

Your phone has an IMEI (international mobile equipment identifier) number that is a tell-all for any information relating to the device. There are multiple online services that will scan databases of IMEI numbers and tell you whether your iPhone is unlocked or not. However, most are paid services, the free services aren't always reliable, and both are sometimes inaccurate. Find the service you want to use. One of the most reliable services is IMEI Info, which does a basic check for free with paid options for more information. Another free option is IMEI24, but your results may vary; the service might even time out before it can return results. On your iPhone and tap Settings > General. Tap About and scroll down to the IMEI number. This appears just below the serial number, Wi-Fi address, and Bluetooth information. Enter your IMEI number into the search bar of the IMEI service you chose. Select Check and fill out any verification information the website requires. It will then attempt to match your IMEI number again those stored in the databases. If you entered your number correctly, you'll be able to see a lot of information about your phone, including the production date, the carrier it's attached to, whether it's locked or not, and more. The IMEI number will also reveal whether or not a device is stolen. FAQ Where can I buy an unlocked iPhone? You can purchase an unlocked iPhone on Amazon, which has a section for unlocked phones that you can filter by Apple or iOS. You can also buy unlocked iPhones at Best Buy, Walmart, and Gazelle. What does an unlocked iPhone mean? An unlocked iPhone is an iPhone that works with any cell phone carrier. Not everyone wants to be tied to a specific carrier's network for various reasons like frequent travel or living in a poor service area. Some people prefer to purchase an unlocked iPhone and activate it with any company. Is it legal to unlock an iPhone? If you live in the U.S., yes, it is legal to unlock your iPhone or another cell phone. To unlock a phone, you'll need to either buy an unlocked phone or complete all the requirements of your phone company contract. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire How to Unlock a Phone From Any Carrier How to Switch Phone Carriers 8 Solutions for When Your iPhone Says No SIM How to Change Your Phone Number on Android What to Consider Before You Buy an Unlocked Smartphone How to Update iPhone Carrier Settings How to Fix It When Mobile Data Is Not Working Everything You Need to Know About iPhone SIM Cards How to Unlock Your Samsung Galaxy Phone How to Fix Missing Personal Hotspot on iPhone How to Fix It When Your iPhone Has No Service How to Find Your Phone's IMEI or MEID Number How to Remove the SIM Card From Your iPhone How to Set up a New iPhone How to Set Up a New Android From an Old Phone How to Insert a SIM Card Into a Smartphone Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies