How to check if an iPhone is unlocked?

You can check if an iPhone is unlocked from the settings. Open Settings > General > About > Network Provider Lock. If No SIM Restriction shows here, it means your iPhone is unlocked. 

An unlocked iPhone is ideal for international travellers. It lets you use multiple cellular carriers and switch between them. It allows users to use the physical SIM cards and the eSIMs in the same device.

In the article, I will discuss the steps to verify your iPhone carrier unlock. 

What is a carrier-locked and unlocked iPhone?

Carrier-locked iPhone refers to a device being restricted to a single carrier. It means you can’t use the other mobile carrier's SIM or eSIM. On the other hand, an unlocked iPhone means you can use the other network SIM card.

4 Methods to Check If Your iPhone is Unlocked

The following are some steps you can go through to verify your iPhone lock.

1. Use a different carrier SIM card

Using the other carrier's SIM card is the quickest way to confirm unlock. You can insert the SIM card or activate the new provider eSIM. 

• Turn off your iPhone. 
• Use the ejector tool and remove the current SIM card from the device. 
• Now insert the new SIM and turn on your iPhone. 
• Try to make the call or enable mobile data. 

If the message prompts SIM not Valid, it means the iPhone is locked. However, if it connects to another network, your device is unlocked. 

2. Check the carrier lock from settings

Go through the following settings to determine if your iPhone is unlocked. 

• Open the iPhone Settings app on iOS 13 or later. 
• Scroll to General and then the About section. 
• Move to the Carrier Lock or the Network Provider Lock. 
• Check the status here.
• If here shows No SIM Restriction, it means your iPhone is unlocked. 

3. Verify with IMEI number

You can use the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) to verify your iPhone's carrier lock. 

• Open the Settings app, click General and then About.
• Here, look for the IMEI number.

There is another way to check your IMEI. Dial *#06# in your iPhone. When you press the enter button, the IMEI number will show on your device even if your device supports dual SIM. The method is free of cost to confirm your iPhone carrier unlock. 

4. Contact your carrier

If you are still not confirmed, contact your carrier and ask for the iPhone carrier unlock information. It is the most reliable option to confirm your device carrier lock status. Some providers have online services for unlocking. 

What to do if your iPhone is locked?

If your iPhone is locked, you can’t use any other new carrier SIM in your mobile phone. In such a case, there might be two solutions. 

• Contact your carrier and request the iPhone carrier unlock. 
• Use the third-party apps to unlock your device. 

Between these, the most trustworthy procedure is to get assistance from your provider. On the other hand, using third-party apps is not safe, and they incur high charges for the procedure. 

What is the best eSIM for your unlocked iPhone?

If you are a frequent travelers and switching to eSIM, it's essential to have an unlocked and eSIM-compatible iPhone. Once the device is unlocked and eSIM support is confirmed, select the best eSIM for your iPhone. 

Compared to a physical SIM, an eSIM card is an effective and flexible connectivity solution. If you are specifically looking for a USA eSIM, Phonico stand out compared to others. The carrier offers affordable data plans that ensure to provide an instant connection. 

The following are some features of Phonico for USA travellers. 

• Digital QR code eSIM activation in iPhone and Android devices. 
• Fast network 4G and 5G network coverage throughout the country. 
• No data roaming or hidden costs. 
• Unlimited talk and text services with data. 
• 24/7 active customer support services. 

Conclusion

How to check if an iPhone is unlocked? It is the essential information you should consider if you buy the new iPhone or switch to eSIM technology. In the article, I have discussed the 4 methods to verify your iPhone unlock. 

Following any of the given methods can help you confirm the device carrier lock without visiting the store. Moreover, I have suggested the best eSIM for travellers to the USA that will keep your device online 24/7. 

FAQs

Is it safe to use a free IMEI checker website?

IMEI is like the ID card of your iPhone. Thus, you should avoid using such private information on unknown sites. Ensure to use the verified platform or request Apple support. 

Why is my iPhone locked to a carrier?

If you purchased the iPhone with a service contract or payment plan, it will be carrier-locked. Once the payment is done, you can request the carrier to unlock the device. 

How long does it take for a carrier to unlock an iPhone?

The iPhone unlock depends on factors like the carrier's policies and the eligibility requirements. Based on these, it may take a few seconds to some business days.