This wikiHow teaches you how to unlock your Android-based ZTE carrier phone, so you can use your phone with other carrier cards. You can unlock your carrier through your original carrier, or by purchasing a code at a third-party service.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Via Operator
Step 1. Know your carrier's rules regarding phone unlocking
Each carrier has its own rules for unlocking your phone, but generally, you'll need to pay for your phone in full. Here are carrier unlock rules at some of the largest US carriers:
- Generally, Verizon phones are unlocked. If your Verizon phone is locked, you can request a carrier unlock after your 6 month contract runs.
- Sprint will unlock your carrier if the phone has been used on the Sprint network for at least 50 days, and has been paid for.
- To unlock an AT&T cell phone carrier, you must first submit device information. If your application is approved, AT&T will contact you within 5 business days.
- T-Mobile will unlock your phone if you have paid off your phone, and if your phone has been used on the T-Mobile network for at least 40 days.
Step 2. Make sure the phone carrier is willing to unlock
While unlocking rules may be included in the contract, confirm your intentions with the operator in advance to avoid misunderstandings.
- If you have paid off the phone, the carrier is required to unlock it.
- Some operator offices do not have the equipment to unlock the operator. Take the phone to the carrier's main representative office to unlock it.
Step 3. Purchase a SIM card for your destination operator, either via the internet or by visiting the operator's office
This way, you can start using your phone right after it's been unlocked.
- Skip this step if you don't want to change carriers right away after unlocking your phone.
- Before buying a SIM card, make sure that the carrier of your choice operates on the frequency and technology that your phone supports. The operator can help you check whether the service is compatible with your phone.
Step 4. To make the process easier, collect the information the operator needs to unlock
The required information includes:
- The phone's IMEI number, which can be found by dialing *#06#.
- Mobile number owner information, such as first name, last name, and the last 4 digits of the identity number.
- Mobile number, along with area code if applicable.
Step 5. Visit the operator's office
Although you can unlock the operator over the phone, the unlocking process will actually be easier if you do it face-to-face.
If you must perform the operator unlocking process over the phone, make sure you take note of all the information provided by the operator
Step 6. Ask the carrier to insert the SIM card you have purchased
If your carrier doesn't want to help, or if you don't have a SIM card with you, you can use a paper clip to open the SIM drawer. Remove the old SIM card if you have one, and insert a new SIM card.
If you only want to unlock carrier, continue to the next step
Step 7. Enter the code provided by the operator when prompted
Generally, you will be asked to enter the lock code after inserting another carrier's SIM card and restarting the phone. If the operator is willing, they may assist with the unlocking process.
- For this service, you may incur additional fees.
- You will not be able to enter the lock code until you change the SIM card in the phone.
Method 2 of 2: Using Third Party Services
Step 1. Find a third-party service that sells a lock code for your phone
One service that has positive reviews is Unlockradar
Step 2. Pay attention to the service provider company, and read service reviews on forums, blogs, and various websites
This step will protect you from fraud.
- Do not enter personal information on sites that are not HTTPS protected. Sites without HTTPS protection are not secure.
- Apps that claim to be able to unlock carriers are scams. Never install the app on your phone.
Step 3. Visit the site of your chosen service provider
Step 4. Show IMEI number of your ZTE phone with following steps:
- Press *#06# to display IMEI.
- Open the Settings menu > About Phone > Status, and find the IMEI entry. Don't be mistaken and take note of the "IMEI SV" entry.
Step 5. Enter the phone's IMEI number in the "IMEI" field on the service provider's website
Some service providers also require you to select the type of phone
Step 6. Pay for the code provider service
Using a payment processing service such as PayPal will keep your bank account safe.
Step 7. Buy a new SIM card, and install the SIM card
Make sure the SIM card is supported by the phone. If necessary, contact the operator for SIM card compatibility.
Step 8. Enter the code provided by the operator when prompted
Generally, you will be asked to enter the lock code after inserting another carrier's SIM card and restarting the phone. Once you've unlocked your carrier, you're free to use your phone with any carrier.
