Guide for Unlocking a Phone for an International eSIM!

Traveling could become a hobby if you are energetic, an explorer, an adventure lover, or just enjoy witnessing beautiful nature. The most important thing while traveling is seamless connectivity, and that’s where eSIMs come to your rescue. Minimizing all the hassle, eSIMs are just another marvel of technology.

However, an issue prevents users from using eSIM, and travelers face challenges. They try to connect to local networks but are not allowed to due to carrier restrictions. It happens due to carrier-locked phones you purchase from a specific carrier network. What to do in this situation?

This guide will help you in learning everything about unlocking phones for international eSIM use. Let’s begin!

Understanding Phone Locking and Its Impact on eSIM Usage

A locked phone means that it only connects to a specific network, and you cannot use any other network SIM or eSIM on it. So, when you travel internationally with a carrier-specific phone and buy an eSIM from a different provider, you are not allowed to connect. Besides frustration and panic, you can’t do anything. 

Therefore, to overcome this issue, you need to unlock your phone to remove this restriction. Unlocking a phone means that it is now ready for any other carrier's eSIM and will connect to local networks wherever you land.

Common Challenges Faced by Travelers

• Incompatibility Issue - Locked phones are not compatible with international eSIM carriers, and this leads to connectivity problems.
• Roaming Charges - With locked phones, you are not allowed to switch between local carriers and will pay sky-high roaming charges.
• Limited Network Access - Stick to carrier-locked phones will result in weaker signals and slower data speed.

Steps to Unlock Your Phone for eSIM Compatibility

Verify Your Phone’s Lock Status

• For iPhone Users
• Tap Settings> General> About.
• See for the Carrier Lock or Network Provider Lock field. If your phone is unlocked, you will see “No SIM restrictions.”
• For Android Users
• It may vary for different devices. 
• Tap Settings> Connections> Mobile Networks> Network Operators.
• See for multiple networks available.

Contact Your Carrier

• Contact your service provider to unlock your phone. They will ask you for your account details and IMEI number.
• There are different types of policies for carriers. They may ask you to fill form or fully pay for the device.

Utilise Third-Party Services

• If the carrier rejects your request, you can contact third-party services to unlock your phone. However, to avoid scams, you must first confirm the provider's status.

Ensuring eSIM Compatibility Post-Unlocking

Once your phone gets unlocked, now you need to check if it is eSIM compatible:

• Check Device Specification - Look for device specifications if it support eSIM.
• Update Software - Check if your device needs a software update because it is highly recommended for eSIM functionality.
• Consult Official Sources - Visit your device manufacturer's website to see the user manual for specific eSIM support information.

Benefits of Using eSIM while Traveling

• Cost Savings – eSIM providers offer cost-effective data plans, such as Phonico eSIM plans, and international roaming is reasonably priced.
• Convenience - Activate the new plan remotely and without a physical SIM card.
• Flexibility - Switching between carriers needs no hassle, and you will get the best coverage and rates.

Conclusion

Unlocking phones for International eSIM use is highly recommended, especially for travelers. Doing this will allow you to stay connected at affordable rates. Read this blog to understand common challenges and how to unlock your eSIM.

Learn about post-unlocking and the benefits that eSIM offers to make your travel flexible and hassle-free. For more, buy Phonico eSIM, as they are the best in the USA with affordable plans!

FAQs

How do I know my phone is unlocked?

iPhone users should check the Carrier lock status in their device settings. Other device holders should contact their carrier or consult the device manual.

Will unlocking my phone void its warranty?

Unlocking your phone does not affect your warranty, but using third-party unauthorized services might. Check with your carrier to verify.