What is a SIM lock
SIM lock:
A SIM lock, NETWORK-LOCK, carrier lock, imei-lock or (Master) SUBSIDY lock is a technical limitation built into CDMA and GSM mobile phone devices by manufacturers to be used by providers to restrict the use of these phones to particular locations and/or networks. This is unlike a cell phone (retrospectively called SIM-free or unlocked) that doesn't enforce any SIM restrictions.If the devices were not locked, customers may well sign a contract with one particular provider, acquire the low priced phone, then stop paying the monthly bill (thus breaking the agreement) and start using the mobile on another network or maybe sell the phone for a profit. SIM locking reduces this by prohibiting a change of service (using a new SIM).
Unlocking Technology:
Normally, a locked handset will display a message if a restricted SIM is used, asking for the unlock code. On modern phone models operating on Google android software, the mobile phone should show a message saying “SIM network unlock PIN” or “Enter Network Lock Control Key” if it's network locked. Windows phones should show the message, “This SIM card can only be used on specific networks. Contact your customer service center for the unlock code”. Other handsets may show differing messages such as "Enter special code" or "Enter unlocking code," or in some instances the mobile will simply show a message saying that it is locked. After a valid code is typed in, the handset will display "Network unlocked” or “Network unlock successful”.
Economics:
Quite often a SIM-locked smartphone is offered at a considerably cheaper price than an unlocked one mainly because the supplier expects income through its service. SIM locks are currently employed on lower priced (pay-as-you-go) mobile phones, while discounts on higher end handsets demand a subscription which offers guaranteed income. Unlocked handsets have a greater market value.
Unlocking Services:
A few companies offer a IMEI mobile phone unlocking service . This service needs individuals that wish to unlock a device to provide their IMEI number to a unlocking company and in most cases they will also require the country and cellular network the handset is locked to, either sent by email or entered on their website. The supplier then will supply (in return for a fee) the unlock code for the handset.
Unlocking Service Providers:
Unfortunately there are a great deal of dodgy sellers working in the smart phone network unlocking industry. As a result it pays off to be sure you use a reliable provider for these services. Take the necessary precautions and investigate every potential dealers before choosing to place an order. In the case of online suppliers, make sure they list their genuine organization name and corresponding registration details (all legit business should be legally registered with the official authorities within their country of origin) and ensure they provide a legitimate certified address and contact information on their web site. Furthermore make sure that any payments made are done so through legitimate sources for instance a recognized bank or financial institution using a debt or credit card, but never make payment via a direct transfer since this offers no fiancial security. To aid with your search for a trustworthy supplier, we've provided a list below (and in no particular order) of a few genuine organisations 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 a technical limitation built into CDMA and GSM mobile phone devices by manufacturers to be used by providers to restrict the use of these phones to particular locations and/or networks. This is unlike a cell phone (retrospectively called SIM-free or unlocked) that doesn't enforce any SIM restrictions.If the devices were not locked, customers may well sign a contract with one particular provider, acquire the low priced phone, then stop paying the monthly bill (thus breaking the agreement) and start using the mobile on another network or maybe sell the phone for a profit. SIM locking reduces this by prohibiting a change of service (using a new SIM).
Unlocking Technology:
Normally, a locked handset will display a message if a restricted SIM is used, asking for the unlock code. On modern phone models operating on Google android software, the mobile phone should show a message saying “SIM network unlock PIN” or “Enter Network Lock Control Key” if it's network locked. Windows phones should show the message, “This SIM card can only be used on specific networks. Contact your customer service center for the unlock code”. Other handsets may show differing messages such as "Enter special code" or "Enter unlocking code," or in some instances the mobile will simply show a message saying that it is locked. After a valid code is typed in, the handset will display "Network unlocked” or “Network unlock successful”.
Economics:
Quite often a SIM-locked smartphone is offered at a considerably cheaper price than an unlocked one mainly because the supplier expects income through its service. SIM locks are currently employed on lower priced (pay-as-you-go) mobile phones, while discounts on higher end handsets demand a subscription which offers guaranteed income. Unlocked handsets have a greater market value.
Unlocking Services:
A few companies offer a IMEI mobile phone unlocking service . This service needs individuals that wish to unlock a device to provide their IMEI number to a unlocking company and in most cases they will also require the country and cellular network the handset is locked to, either sent by email or entered on their website. The supplier then will supply (in return for a fee) the unlock code for the handset.
Unlocking Service Providers:
Unfortunately there are a great deal of dodgy sellers working in the smart phone network unlocking industry. As a result it pays off to be sure you use a reliable provider for these services. Take the necessary precautions and investigate every potential dealers before choosing to place an order. In the case of online suppliers, make sure they list their genuine organization name and corresponding registration details (all legit business should be legally registered with the official authorities within their country of origin) and ensure they provide a legitimate certified address and contact information on their web site. Furthermore make sure that any payments made are done so through legitimate sources for instance a recognized bank or financial institution using a debt or credit card, but never make payment via a direct transfer since this offers no fiancial security. To aid with your search for a trustworthy supplier, we've provided a list below (and in no particular order) of a few genuine organisations currently offering such services.
Reputable Mobile Phone IMEI Unlocking Service Providers:
