How to check if the iPhone is carrier-locked?
How can I check if my iPhone is carrier-locked? Sometimes, while switching carriers, users find their iPhone device carrier-locked to a specific network. This situation leads to unnecessary frustration while travelling.
But don’t worry. You can confirm it directly from device settings or by contacting your carrier.
In this article, we will go through how to confirm whether your iPhone carrier is locked or unlocked.
What is the meaning of carrier locked?
Carrier-locking an iPhone means your device is compatible with only one network provider. The locked iPhone works with only one purchased network, and the software restricts use of other networks. If you bought your new iPhone with a discount, it may be carrier-locked. To unlock your device, contact your provider.
Once the device is unlocked, the user can switch to other networks of SIMs like Phonico eSIM.
How do I check the iPhone carrier lock?
You can check it from device settings, using SIM cards, or using an online IMEI checker. Here are some details about these methods.
Check from the iPhone Settings
One of the most straightforward processes is checking the carrier lock-through settings. You can follow the given steps.
- Open your iPhone Settings.
- Move to the General section.
- Click the About button.
- Now, find the Carrier Lock option.
- If it shows No SIM Restrictions, the device carrier is unlocked; otherwise, it is locked.
Use a Different Carrier SIM Card
If you did not find the information related to carrier lock, you can use different carrier SIM cards. However, this method does not apply to iPhone 14 and later devices. Firstly, buy a new physical SIM card or borrow one from your friends.
- Turn off your iPhone device to start the process.
- Locate the SIM card slot to remove the card tray.
- Use the ejector tool to detach the slot from the device.
- Insert the different carrier's physical SIM card.
- Now, turn on the iPhone device.
- If the prompt on your screen shows that SIM doesn’t support your device, your device is locked.
Use Online IMEI Checker
Checking the phone carrier lock through IMEI is easy. However, before starting, you should know your iPhone's IMEI number. On some Apple devices, the IMEI number is on the back. You can find it by dialling the code *#06#.
Once you have the number, use the online IMEI checking tools. Enter your device code to determine whether your device is locked or unlocked.
Contact Device Carrier
If you still haven't found anything after following the given steps, you should contact your network provider. Your provider can provide better information about the carrier lock. If your device is locked, the carrier may charge a fee to unlock it for other networks.
Conclusion
Travellers buy compatible iPhones, but the eSIM doesn’t work on them. It happens because the device carrier is locked. How can you confirm whether your phone is locked or unlocked? You can confirm it through online IMEI checkers, physical SIM cards or from settings. If it's locked contact your carrier and request for unlock.
While if it is unlocked, get your travel eSIM plan and enjoy hassle-free connectivity.
FAQs
How do you unlock the iPhone carrier?
To unlock your iPhone carrier, contact your provider. The carrier may charge you a fee and provide the codes to unlock your device and allow you to connect to other networks.
Can I use an eSIM if my phone is carrier-locked?
Phone carrier lock means your device is restricted to other network eSIMs. Therefore, you can not install or activate the embedded SIM into your device.
