How to check if an Android phone is unlocked?

You can verify the Android unlock from settings. Open settings > Connections > Mobile Network > Network Operation. Disable the Select Automatically. If available devices are showing, it means your phone is unlocked. 

Carrier unlock matters when you are switching networks. It lets you use another carrier's SM card. During travel, you should confirm that your Android phone is not restricted from getting connectivity freedom.

But do you need to visit the carrier store? In this article, I will explain how you can check if the Android phone is unlocked. I will explain some methods to confirm your device's carrier lock status. 

Can You Check the Android Carrier Lock?

Yes, there are different methods to confirm the carrier lock. You can do it on your own without visiting the store. Carriers generally restrict their SIM use to keep users tied to the contract. When the contract terms expire, you can use the other carrier network. 

Benefits of Having an Unlocked Android Phone

The carrier-locked device means your Android device is restricted to use a single network. On the other hand, with an unlocked device, you can use a different network's SIM card in your mobile phone. Here are some benefits of the unlocked Android phone. 

• Carrier switching freedom: It allows you to switch carriers and find a better network and coverage.
• Perfect for travel: An unlocked phone is significant for frequent travellers. You can use the local SIM cards to avoid data roaming. 
• High resale value: The unlocked phones have a wider potential for buyers. It lets users use different networks. 
• Advanced customisation: Carrier-unlocked phones have customised options. You can download the custom operating system to improve the function of the device. 

How to Check If an Android Phone is Unlocked?

Four methods are used to verify if your Android phone is unlocked. Click the link if you want to confirm your iPhone carrier unlock. 

1. Verify through settings

• Open the Android Settings menu. 
• Click Connections and look for Mobile Network. 
• Move to the Network Operation. 
• Turn off the Select Automatically option. 

Now, if the device searches for the available networks and lists multiple, it means your Android is unlocked. However, if only one network is listed, it refers to a locked carrier.

2. Insert the different carrier SM card in Android 

Another valid option is to insert the other carrier's SIM card in your device. It might be convenient, but it lets you verify your phone's lock. 

• Turn on your Android phone. 
• Detach the current SIM from the device. 
• Insert the different carriers' active SIM or eSIM card. (If you phone support eSIM)
• Now turn on the device and enable the mobile data.
• If it connects to the network, it means your Android mobile is unlocked. 

3. Use IMEI checkers

You can use online IMEI checkers for your device. Avoid using the free suspicious websites and use a reputable source. Users avoid paid checkers and prefer free ones. But these might lead to cyber risks. The paid checkers are verified and safer compared to free versions. 

4. Contact your carrier

You can also contact your carrier and request assistance to confirm the carrier lock. The carrier will ask about the phone’s IMEI number. You can find the IMEI in the device's About section. 

You can dial *#06# in the dial bar and press the enter button. The IMEI of the phone will display on the screen. 

Do You Need the Unlock Phone to Use eSIM?

Yes, if you want an eSIM on an Android device, your device should be carrier unlocked. It lets you switch between multiple carrier networks. With a locked phone, you can’t activate the new eSIM profile. 

Digital SIM is helpful for accessing an improved network connection during travel. You can easily delete the eSIM and add the new plans via remote QR code activation. If you are new to eSIM and confused about getting the best eSIM, Phonico is ideal for USA travel.

The provider offers flexible data plans with unlimited talk and text services. All the plans are valid for a month, but cost different depending on the data. 

Conclusion

How to check if an Android phone is unlocked? It's quite simple; you can confirm it from your device settings or by inserting the new carrier SIM card. You can also contact your device carrier and request the unlock. 

In the article, I have discussed each method in detail to verify device lock without visiting a store.

FAQs

Can I unlock my Android phone for free?

The only free method to unlock your device is to contact your carrier. If to meet the carrier requirements, your device will proceed to unlock.

Can I use an eSIM if my phone is carrier-locked?

You can’t use a different carrier eSIM in a locked device because locked devices restrict your phone to a single network provider.

Does a factory reset unlock an Android phone?

No, factory reset doesn’t unlock the Android device. It removes the data from the device and resets settings to the original state.