By unlocking your iPhone, you can also use it with SIM cards from other operators. This is a great thing for example if you have to travel as you will not have to buy or rent another mobile phone. It is also useful if you want to keep your cell phone but switch to another operator. Follow this guide to learn how to unlock your AT&T iPhone.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Unlocking via AT&T
Step 1. Check if AT&T considers you eligible
AT&T will unlock your mobile for free if your case meets certain criteria. Otherwise you will need to have your mobile unlocked by a third party, for a fee.
- You must have finished paying for your iPhone.
- The contract must be terminated, otherwise they may require you to pay a sum of money.
- Your iPhone must not be lost or stolen.
- Your account must be in good condition.
Step 2. Get your iPhone's IMEI code
You can get it by dialing the number *# 06#. It is not necessary to make the call; the IMEI code will be displayed automatically, and then you just have to write it down.
Step 3. Visit the AT&T Unlock Device Portal
You will find a form that allows you to request that your iPhone be unlocked. You will need to enter the following information:
- Indicate if you are a current customer or if you have been in the past.
- Your phone number.
- The IMEI code of your iPhone.
- Your first and last name.
- A valid email address.
- The last four digits of your social security number.
- Your AT&T account password, if you have one.
Step 4. Submit your request
Once all the information has been entered, send your request. Unblocking can be done within a few hours of submitting the request, but it may take up to five business days. You can check the status of your request by clicking on the Check Status link at the top of the Device Unblocking Portal page.
Although the site indicates that it may take up to five business days, many users report having received the unlock codes within half an hour
Step 5. Check your email
The unlock code will be sent to you by e-mail. Also check the folder for unwanted emails as the system may have accidentally moved the email you are waiting for to this folder.
Step 6. Back up your iPhone
To complete the unlocking operation, you need to reset your iPhone to factory settings. This means that all your data and all your settings will be cleared. To preserve and restore them later, back up your iPhone using the appropriate function of iTunes.
Step 7. Insert your new SIM card
Insert a SIM card belonging to an operator other than AT&T. To do this you will need to remove your old SIM card and insert the new one in its place.
Step 8. Restore your iPhone
After backing up your mobile and inserting the new SIM card, reset your iPhone to factory settings. You will be prompted to enter the unlock code you received from AT&T. Once your phone has been unlocked, you can restore the data and settings that you previously backed up with iTunes.
Method 2 of 2: Third Party Unlock
Step 1. Get your iPhone's IMEI code
You can get this code by dialing the number *# 06#. The IMEI code will automatically be displayed on the screen. Write it down somewhere so you can use it later.
Step 2. Find a third party phone unlocking service
There are some paid online services that allow you to unlock an AT&T iPhone. The cost depends on the chosen service. Make sure you've read reviews for the service you decide to choose. Getting a refund from these companies can be very complicated.
Step 3. Enter your IMEI number
All third party services need the IMEI code of your mobile phone. To continue the unlocking process you need to enter it when prompted.
Step 4. Pay the amount due
The rates for the unlocking service vary constantly. You will most likely have to pay around $ 50 to unlock your mobile.
Step 5. Receive the code
The time it takes to receive the code varies depending on the service you have chosen, but is generally at least 48 hours. You should receive the code at the email address you provided when you requested the unlock.
Step 6. Back up your iPhone
To complete the unlocking process, you will need to factory reset your iPhone. This means that all your data and all your settings will be erased. To preserve and restore them later you need to back up your iPhone using the appropriate function of iTunes.
Step 7. Insert the new SIM card
Insert the SIM card of an operator other than AT&T. To do this you will need to remove your old SIM card and insert the new one in its place.
Step 8. Restore your iPhone
After backing up your mobile and inserting the new SIM card, reset your iPhone to factory settings. You will be prompted to enter the unlock code you received from AT&T. Once your phone has been unlocked, you can restore the data and settings that you previously backed up with iTunes.
