Free your phone – use any SIM, anywhere you go
Whether you’ve finished a contract or bought a second-hand handset, an unlocked phone offers more flexibility and control.
Unlocking your mobile phone gives you the freedom to switch networks, choose the best SIM-only deals, and avoid high roaming charges when travelling abroad.
In this guide, we’ll explain what unlocking really means, how to check if your phone is locked, and describe the process for major UK providers/carriers like EE, O2, Vodafone, and Three. Everything is legal, safe, and easier than you might think.
What does it mean when a phone is locked?
When a phone is “locked,” it means it’s tied to a specific mobile network. You can’t use a SIM card from a different provider until it’s unlocked.
Unlocking removes this barrier, allowing you to insert and use any compatible SIM – ideal for switching networks, travelling, or reselling your phone.
How can I check if my phone is unlocked?
The most important thing to know about modern devices in the UK is that if you’re buying new, it will be unlocked. This has been the case since 2021, when phone companies were banned from selling locked devices.
There are a few ways you can check to see if your phone is locked. The most simple method is to insert a SIM card from another network if you’ve bought the device from a provider or second hand. If you can make calls or access data, the phone is unlocked.
On iPhone’s, you can find out by looking in the phone’s settings. To do this, follow these steps: Navigate to Settings > General > About and look for “Network Provider Lock.” If it says “No SIM restrictions,” your phone is unlocked.
Alternatively, contact your network provider or use online IMEI checkers to verify the lock status.
Is it free to unlock my phone?
In many cases, yes. As the Ofcom regulation in 2021 prevented providers from selling locked devices, this isn’t a worry for any devices sold after that time.
For older devices, most providers offer free unlocking services, especially if you’re out of contract.
However, some may charge a fee, so it’s best to confirm with your provider. Typically, though, if you are the original account holder, they will likely do it for you for free.
How do I unlock my phone?
The unlocking process depends on your network provider. Here’s what to expect from the major UK carriers:
EE
EE abides by the Ofcom ruling, with new phones being sold unlocked already. For older devices, you must submit a request through EE’s online unlocking form. It’s free to do if you’re a current or former customer. Non-customers may need proof of purchase.
O2
O2 also sells their new devices unlocked, but in the event that you are given a device that is locked, it is free and easy to unlock. Simply log into your My O2 app (or online) and submit an unlock request.
Vodafone
Vodafone’s unlocking procedure is a combination of O2 and EE procedures; you first log into your account either online or via the My Vodafone app, and then you fill out the Vodafone unlock form.
It is free to do once again; however, you must meet the eligibility criteria, which is you must’ve been on the network for a minimum of 30 days.
Three
Three were actually ahead of the game with selling unlocked phones, having done so since 2014.
However, in the case that you do get one that is locked, you can either call Three’s customer support or you can fill out an online form. Both methods won’t cost you a thing.
Tesco Mobile
Tesco Mobile, which uses O2’s network, also offers free unlocking and a simple process which can be done via the Tesco Mobile app or by calling customer support.
However, you are only able to do so once you’ve had the phone for over 12 months. Again though, this will likely not be a problem unless you bought your phone from Tesco Mobile before December 2021.
Giffgaff, Sky Mobile, and others
For basically every other provider, their process will be similar to any of the ones above. They also are barred from selling locked phones, so in the case that you find you do have a locked device, the process shouldn’t be a problem to get it unlocked.
How long does it take to unlock a phone?
Unlocking durations vary by provider, and don’t forget that some of them have a certain amount of time that you must have owned the device before you can unlock it.
- EE: Aims to unlock within 72 hours but may take up to 10 working days if they need to contact the manufacturer for a code.
- O2: Looks to unlock between 24 – 72 hours but can take up to seven days, potentially even up to 28 days depending on device age.
- Vodafone: Up to 10 working days.
- Three: Usually within seven days but may be quicker. Apple devices supposedly take up to 72 hours, while non-Apple devices can be between five to seven days.
- Tesco Mobile: Up to seven working days.
These are general timelines; actual durations may differ based on specific circumstances.
Can I unlock my phone if I’m still under contract?
Yes, but you’re still responsible for paying off your contract. Unlocking does not cancel your agreement, it only removes the SIM restriction.
Some providers may require that you’ve had the device for a minimum period before unlocking. It’s advisable to consult with your provider before unlocking your phone.
Why should I unlock my phone?
Unlocking your phone offers several benefits, possibly none more so than resale value. If you were looking to sell your phone after your contract but it was locked, you wouldn’t be able to get as much for it as it is limited.
You also don’t have as much flexibility. A locked phone means you’re stuck with that one provider and the offerings they can provide you. An unlocked phone means you can switch between carriers, taking advantage of better deals.
Then there’s the travel benefits. If you want to save yourself a hefty bill when you return home from holiday, your best bet would be to get a local SIM card. Obviously, if your phone was locked, that wouldn’t be an option, so unlocking it can help you big time in those cases.
Are there risks to unlocking my phone?
If done through official channels, unlocking is safe and legal. However, using unauthorized third-party services can:
- Void Warranties: Unauthorized methods may breach warranty terms.
- Security Risks: Potential exposure to malware or data breaches.
- Device Damage: Improper unlocking can harm your device’s functionality.
Always opt for carrier-approved unlocking methods.
What is the difference between unlocking and jailbreaking/rooting?
Jailbreaking seems like a term from a time gone, but in fact it is still a practice that many still do now. But if you’re wondering if you should opt for jailbreaking your device over unlocking it, you should be aware of the difference:
Unlocking
Removes carrier restrictions, allowing the use of different SIM cards. It’s legal and doesn’t alter the device’s operating system.
Jailbreaking/rooting
Jailbreaking and rooting are the same thing, only the former name applies to iPhones and the latter to Android’s.
Both do the same thing, though, which is modify the device’s OS to bypass manufacturer restrictions, enabling unauthorized app installations. This process can void warranties and pose security risks. You can unlock your phone through jailbreaking it as well, but it comes with much more risk than just unlocking it.
In short, unlocking allows more carrier flexibility, jailbreaking is for taking OS-level control.
Can I use my unlocked phone abroad?
As mentioned earlier, an unlocked phone will come in handy when going abroad. Unlocked phones accept SIM cards from international providers, letting you avoid high roaming fees.
You just have to make sure your phone supports the frequency bands used in your destination country, although this shouldn’t be a problem as most newer phones are globally compatible.
Should I unlock my phone before selling it?
Absolutely. Unlocked phones will help to attract more buyers and command higher prices since it is compatible with any SIM card from any provider.
It will also make for a simpler and smoother transaction, as it eliminates the need for buyers to unlock the device themselves. Remember, some carriers require proof of purchase to do the unlocking for free, so to save any unwanted back-and-forth, it’s best to unlock and reset the device before selling and sending.
What information do I need to unlock my phone?
Usually, you’ll need:
- Your IMEI number (dial *#06# or check your phone settings)
- Account details from your provider
- The phone’s make and model
- Possibly a proof of purchase if you’re not the original owner
Where can I find more help with unlocking?
- Check your provider’s website for official unlock instructions.
- Contact customer support if unsure.
- Use trusted consumer sites or government resources like Ofcom for further guidance.
