In 2023, the average expected life span of consumer smartphones in the US was 2.67 years. This means that the average US consumer must buy a new phone approximately every three years.

When getting a new phone, you must decide whether to get a locked or unlocked device. You cannot use a different carrier for the same device with a locked phone. If you purchased a locked phone but want to switch to another carrier, you can use this guide to unlock your phone.

Should you unlock your phone?

A locked phone has a software code from your primary carrier that prevents you from using a different cellular network. Meanwhile, unlocked phones allow users to enjoy any cellphone service with any carrier on a compatible network.

By unlocking your new phone, you can choose from a broader range of phone plans. Let’s say you bought your phone from a Verizon store. If you unlock your cell phone, you can explore different cellphone plans that can provide better rates, aside from those offered by Verizon. 

This advantage also means you will not be limited to tariffs offered by the carrier from which you bought your phone.

If you plan to sell your phone, unlocking it may be necessary. This will allow you to sell it for a higher price since the device is not tied to a single network.

Frequent travelers wanting to save on roaming charges may also need unlocked phones. This way, they can use SIM cards from overseas networks.

How To Unlock Your Phone

Now that you know the crucial benefits of unlocking your phone, learn the different ways to unlock it. The process varies depending on your mobile phone carrier, but there are similar steps to remember.

For Verizon customers

If you purchased your phone from Verizon, you only have to wait 60 days for the device to unlock. The company automatically unlocks all their devices after that time frame unless the device was reported stolen or bought fraudulently.

The 60-day rule applies to both postpaid and prepaid phones. However, deployed military are exempt from the rule and must send a request by calling the company.

For T-Mobile users

T-Mobile users can unlock their phones through the company’s unlocking portal as long as they meet the following criteria and requirements:

• Their phone must be a T-Mobile device.
• Proof of purchase.
• Your account must be in “good standing.”
• The device must not have been reported lost, blocked, or stolen.
• Postpaid accounts must have been fully paid for and active for at least 40 days on the requesting date.
• Prepaid accounts must have been active for at least a year, have over $100 refills since the first use date, or have been bought 14 days before the requesting date.
• The device must have already been fully paid for if paid in installments.
• You have made less than two unlock requests in the last 12 months.

For UScellular users

Like Verizon, UScellular unlocks its devices automatically. However, UScellular customers have a longer waiting time of 120 days.

You must meet the following requirements before you can unlock your device: 

• Your phone must be from UScellular.
• It must not have been stolen, lost, or purchased fraudulently.
• The device must be fully paid for.

Unfortunately, some UScellular devices cannot be unlocked. This issue can be due to the phone’s age or design. 

Connect With Your Friends and Unlock Your Phone

Unlocking a locked phone can be quickly done, depending on your original phone service provider. Before buying a new phone, understand your cell phone needs so you can buy a device that automatically unlocks after purchase or one you can easily unlock without any hassle.

Published by: Khy Talara