Should you carrier unlock your mobile device by yourself and is it even legal?
So you've hopefully reached the end of your cell phone contract, you have finished paying for your very expensive cell phone and you are obviously ready to get a cheaper P-A-Y-G deal. There is just one hitch. Your device is locked to your current network carrier and if you can't take care of that, you aren't going to be able to locate a better value package provided by other networks. So, how might you get your mobile permanently unlocked and get your pick of the P-A-Y-G promotions? Fortunately, it's essentially extremely simple.
Am I authorized to unlock a phone?
Absolutely nothing is illegal about unlocking your mobile phone. It's yours and you are well within your legal rights to make use of it with any network you would like. Unfortunately, there is a good chance permanently unlocking your smartphone can void your warranty, so it might be best to wait until you've reached the end of your contract before you decide to get rid of your current provider.
What alternatives are out there if my network provider will not unlock my mobile phone?
- High street unlocking companies: You will frequently see signs in retail outlets, market stalls and even hairdressers offering mobile phone unlocking services and it's typical to pay around $25 or above for the services.
- 3rd party unlocking companies: There are actually many services that offer to source IMEI unlocking services for you, but it is a wise decision you read testimonials to get an informed view of how respected they are before you part with your hard earned money. Be advised there are countless crooks out there offering these services!
- DIY: A few technically-minded folks may possibly be capable to do this themselves but it isn't very easy and you will have to have expert computer software.
How much should it actually cost me to unlock a smart phone?
A few providers will not charge for unlocking assistance while some others can charge about $100. It's also worth remembering that each networks has unique policies connected to how long you may have had your monthly or Pay-As-You-Go plan for and how to get your code. A good number of providers have online forms, but a few will advise you to contact their helplines. The time it could take to unlock your mobile phone once again ranges widely between each carrier. In the UK, Vodafone for example, will unlock an iPhone in 4 days, while Plusnet declare it might take up to 20 calendar days to unlock network locked handsets.
Who is the most honest and cheapest independent unlock service provider around?
If you are not sure who to use, I highly recommend Unlock.Zone. They offer unlocks for all major manufacturers and networks, have a guaranteed price match promise, plus first and foremost, have a no questions asked refund policy in the unlikely event they can't unlock your mobile phone. I have used them myself personally and was very happy with the service I received and ultimately that they successfully unlocked my smart phone.
You can find them here: Cell Phones Unlocker
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