What is an unlocked SIM card?
An unlocked phone either doesn’t have the lock software on it or someone was able to get a code that unlocks the software. Once a device is unlocked, you can pop out the SIM card and put in a different SIM from another GSM operator and get service.
Can I get an unlocked SIM card?
You can unlock a SIM card if you have the correct code. Sometimes it isn’t even set, and the SIM Card can be hot-swapped from phone-to-phone without entering a PIN number. However, the SIM card will always have a Personal Unblocking Key (PUK Code). A PUK Code is set at the factory and is unique to each SIM card.
Does unlocked mean no SIM?
An unlocked cell phone means that you can travel internationally or use your phone on different carriers. Your phone will accept a SIM card from another network (in most cases) or another provider, and you can make calls, surf the web, and send texts as you usually do.
Is SIM unlocking illegal?
Unlocking is legal in the U.S. To be able to unlock a phone, you’ll need to either buy an unlocked phone or complete all the requirements of your phone company contract (generally either two years of service or paying installments for the price of your phone).
Why would you unlock a SIM card?
Unlocking a SIM is often done to change the service carrier or to remove the phone for sale. The new owner will require an unlocked phone to install and use their own SIM card.
Do you need to activate an unlocked phone?
Do Unlocked Phones Need to Be Activated? Not always. Technically, once your contract is up, your phone is locked still, but does not need to be activated. However, when purchasing new or used phones that are unlocked, you will need to activate them before using them.
How to get an unlocked SIM?
Download and Install Android SIM Unlocker. Download Android SIM Unlocker by clicking the above button and install it on your computer.
What does “SIM free” and “unlocked” mean?
SIM-free means the phone is being sold without a SIM card and has no requirement to top-up at point of purchase. SIM-free phones may be locked to a specific network or unlocked, and may or may not include branding and custom software. Unlocked means the phone is not locked to a specific network (see note below).
Can you use an existing SIM in an unlocked phone?
An unlocked cell phone will allow you to use a SIM card from any GSM carrier in the phone. Refer to your manual to determine how the SIM card is inserted into the cell phone. In most cell phones, the SIM card slot will be located in the back compartment near the battery.
What is an unlocked cell phone vs locked?
Difference Between Locked and Unlocked Phone There is no hardware difference between locked and unlocked phones. Locked phones are available at very low prices, whereas unlocked phones are hard to find and sell at higher rates. Locked phone works only on the SIM of the carrier that sells the phone, whereas unlocked phone can work on any SIM of the choice of the buyer.