How to Check if Your Phone Is Unlocked

An unlocked phone can be used with any compatible carrier. A locked phone only works with the carrier that sold it until that carrier unlocks it.

On an iPhone

Go to Settings › General › About and look for "Carrier Lock." If it says "No SIM restrictions," the phone is unlocked.

On Android

Menus differ by brand. Look in Settings for network or SIM settings, or check with your current carrier. A simple test is to insert a SIM from a different carrier: if the phone connects, it is unlocked.

If your phone is locked

• Pay off the phone — Carriers generally require the device to be fully paid for.
• Meet the carrier's requirements — Some require the line to have been active for a set period.
• Request the unlock — Ask in the carrier's app, website or by phone. Unlocking is usually free.

Unlocked is not the same as compatible

Even an unlocked phone has to support the new carrier's network bands and features. Always run the new carrier's compatibility check using your IMEI before you switch.