Is My iPhone Unlocked? How to Check (and How to Unlock It)
Whether you're switching networks, heading abroad, or selling your iPhone, it pays to know whether it's unlocked. Here's how to check in under a minute - and exactly what to do if it turns out to be locked.
What does an "unlocked" iPhone mean?
An unlocked iPhone works with any network's SIM card, anywhere in the world. A locked iPhone only accepts SIMs from the network that originally sold it - for example Vodafone, EE, O2 or Three. Put a different network's SIM in a locked iPhone and it won't connect.
How to check if your iPhone is unlocked
1. Check in Settings (quickest)
On iOS 14 or later, go to Settings ? General ? About and scroll to Carrier Lock. If it says "No SIM restrictions", your iPhone is unlocked. If it shows "SIM locked", it isn't.
2. Try a different network's SIM
Pop in a SIM from another network. If it connects to signal and you can make a call, the iPhone is unlocked. If you see "SIM Not Supported" or an activation prompt, it's locked.
3. Check by IMEI
Dial *#06# to display your IMEI, then run an IMEI lookup to see the network it's tied to and its lock status. Our iPhone Network Check service tells you the exact network and lock status from just the IMEI.
How to unlock a locked iPhone
A locked iPhone can be unlocked permanently. Modern iPhones are unlocked at network level (a "factory unlock") - no jailbreaking and no software. Once done, it stays unlocked for life, even after an update or restore.
Your network may unlock it free once your contract is paid off, though that can be slow. For a fast, permanent unlock you can use a remote service - such as our Vodafone iPhone unlock – we also unlock EE and O2 iPhones. You just need your IMEI; there's no need to send the phone in.
Why bother unlocking?
- Use cheaper SIM-only and pay-as-you-go deals
- Pop in a local SIM abroad and avoid roaming charges
- Sell your iPhone for more - unlocked phones are worth more
- Switch network whenever you like
FAQs
Can I tell if my iPhone is unlocked without another SIM?
Yes - go to Settings ? General ? About and check the "Carrier Lock" line.
Does resetting or restoring an iPhone unlock it?
No. A factory reset wipes your data but does not remove a network lock.
Is unlocking an iPhone legal in the UK?
Yes - it's completely legal to unlock a phone you own.
Will unlocking delete anything on my iPhone?
No - a network unlock doesn't touch your data, apps or settings.
Not sure where your iPhone stands? Run an iPhone Network Check to see its exact network and lock status, or unlock it permanently with our remote service.
