How to Tell if Your iPhone Is Unlocked

Sat-Jan-2022
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The process of determining whether an iPhone is unlocked is generally the same across different versions of iOS. However, the steps to access certain settings or information may vary slightly between iOS versions. Here’s how to check if your iPhone is unlocked for different versions of iOS:

iOS 12 and later:

  1. Insert a SIM Card: Remove the current SIM card from your iPhone and insert a SIM card from a different carrier.
  2. Check Carrier Name: If the new carrier’s name appears in the top left corner of the screen (e.g., “Verizon,” “AT&T,” “T-Mobile”), your iPhone is likely unlocked. If it shows the original carrier’s name or “No Service,” it might still be locked.
  3. Test Calls and Data: Make a phone call and try accessing the internet using cellular data with the new SIM card. If both functions work correctly, it indicates that your iPhone is unlocked. Otherwise, it may still be locked to the original carrier.

iOS 11 and earlier:

  1. Access Settings: Open the “Settings” app on your iPhone.
  2. Go to Cellular (or Mobile Data): Tap on “Cellular” or “Mobile Data” (depending on your region and iOS version).
  3. Cellular Data Network (or Cellular Data Options): On some iOS versions, you may need to tap on “Cellular Data Network” or “Cellular Data Options.”
  4. Look for Carrier Name: If you see an option to change the APN (Access Point Name) settings or a field labeled “Carrier” that you can modify, it suggests that your iPhone is likely unlocked. However, if you cannot access or modify these settings, your iPhone may still be locked to the original carrier.

Additional methods for all iOS versions:

  1. Contact Your Carrier: Get in touch with your current carrier (the one you bought the iPhone from) and inquire directly about the device’s unlocking status. They will be able to check their records and provide you with information.
  2. Use an Online Tool: Some websites offer online tools to check the unlocking status of your iPhone. You can visit these websites, provide the iPhone’s IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number, and they will let you know if the device is unlocked.
  3. Visit an Apple Store or Authorized Reseller: If you are uncertain about your iPhone’s unlocked status, you can take it to an Apple Store or an authorized reseller. They can check the device and provide you with accurate information.

Always ensure that you have proper authorization before attempting to unlock your iPhone to avoid any issues.