Want to make a change? It’s possible that you relocated to a place with less coverage for your existing provider. Or maybe you’ve discovered a better bargain and want to reduce your monthly price. If your iPhone isn’t already unlocked, it’s completely legal to unlock it and move to a different carrier for any reason. Additionally, there is now a simple method to determine if your iPhone is locked to the network of your present carrier.
But before you switch ship, be sure you have paid off your iPhone in full. You must finish all of your payments if you are on an installment plan before your carrier can release you.
Is it possible that my iPhone has previously been unlocked?
Your iPhone is probably unlocked if you paid full cash for it up front. It’s most likely tied to the network of the carrier you bought it from, such as AT&T, Verizon, or another one.
How can I determine if it’s locked or not?
Last year, Apple introduced a method for determining if your iPhone is locked or unlocked that eliminates the need to contact your carrier and find a person who can respond to this straightforward query. You may choose Carrier Lock by scrolling down under Settings > General > About as long as you’re running iOS 14 or 15. The good news is that your iPhone is unlocked if you observe that there are no SIM limitations on this line. However, if SIM locked appears, you most likely still owe money until your iPhone is paid in full.
Could it be locked?
You will need to get in touch with your carrier to seek an unlock if your iPhone is paid for but still hasn’t been unlocked. However, you may be able to start the unlocking procedure via your carrier’s website before you call. Check out AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon’s device unlock sites; you may have to wait a day or two for your request to be processed. Once verified, you may proceed.
Remember to terminate your previous contract as soon as your new service is operational.
All OK, so how can I take the SIM card out?
To eject your SIM tray, back up your iPhone, turn it off, and then use the SIM-eject tool that came with it or a safety pin to insert it into the little opening adjacent to the SIM tray.
The SIM has been released. What comes next?
Now all you have to do is insert your SIM card from your new carrier back into your phone after placing it in the tray.
Is there anything else?
Yes, one more thing: Don’t forget your phone number. Although it’s a good idea to double-check, you should have no trouble moving your number from one carrier to another. To find out whether your number may be ported, you can contact AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon, the three main US providers.