so this is my first Android phone where unlocking the SIM card is possible. i've been with Verizon and Sprint so long that i never bothered looking up the unlocking abilities/procedures. the only unlocking experience i've had in the past have been with iPhones, where the jailbreaking software has an option to unlock the SIM card as well.
and i didn't know that you have to ride out your 2 year contract before AT&T will unlock your phone. i've tried searching around here, but i couldn't get a good answer. i kept finding threads in regard to a Canadian carrier where you dial a number + an unlock code, but then some ROMS didn't allow the dialing of that number to work (or something like that).
is there a method to unlock the SIM card of the AT&T version without waiting out the 2 year contract?
yes, just keep asking. use online chat. i got both my devices unlocked, one after 25 days of owning and one after 2 days. you do not need to wait out your contact, that only applied to the iPhone.
p.s. the other two larger unlock Sim threads in this board detail all this for you.
Sent from my Galaxy S III
ATT will unlock the SGS3 after owning it for 15 days, and as long as your last months bill is paid in full.
call them, or chat them and ask for it :laugh:
thanks for the info. i totally missed the Q&A section somehow.
in related to other threads i found, should i try to unlock the SIM card first before rooting/flashing a custom ROM?
They are mutually exclusive items to do on your phone. One does not affect the other. So to answer your question you can do whichever task you want to have done first.
That said, I like knowing my phone is carrier-lock free asap, so I'd unlock first to get that done.
Sent from my SGH-I747M using xda app-developers app
thank you for the info!
just got off the Web Chat with an agent. all i did was simply ask for an unlock and he gave me the unlock code to use once inserting a non-AT&T SIM card.
i didn't have to provide a reason or anything.
now all i have to do is locate a non-AT&T SIM card to test the unlock, and then i can proceed to rooting this. hopefully the stable AOKP will be part of today's release.
I just dropped by Bestbuy and bought the phone out-right. Un-activated phones and phones without the stock ROM have to use a diff carrier's SIM to activate the unlock screen.
Pick one up on ebay. you can get a T-Mobile micro SIM for like $2. The only thing it's good for is unlocking your phone.
Like the one I bought:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/16086619163...NX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1497.l2649#ht_500wt_1414
If u got it from best buy you overpaid. Phones are marked up from ATT cost. They are 549.99 with ATT and 700 with BBY.
OP
You can go to cellunlocker.net and put in your IMEI and get a unlock code. Great site. I use them all the time.
Sent from my SGH-I747 using xda premium
pussyliquor said:
If u got it from best buy you overpaid. Phones are marked up from ATT cost. They are 549.99 with ATT and 700 with BBY.
OP
You can go to cellunlocker.net and put in your IMEI and get a unlock code. Great site. I use them all the time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bestbuy does price match. So I got it for $549 plus the $10 in BB rewards.
Why are you telling the OP to pay for it when he doesn't have to?
Guess i'll have to try another time later. Not to mention the guy i chatted with didn't seem too bright. Asked if i could have the SIM Unlock code for my phone, and he said that AT&T sim cards cannot be unlocked.
Told me that it can't be unlocked because it is still contracted to AT&T. Told him i read that people have been getting them unlocked after a couple days of purchasing the device, on contract or not, and he said apparently i was misinformed. haha
mrhomiec said:
thank you for the info!
just got off the Web Chat with an agent. all i did was simply ask for an unlock and he gave me the unlock code to use once inserting a non-AT&T SIM card.
i didn't have to provide a reason or anything.
now all i have to do is locate a non-AT&T SIM card to test the unlock, and then i can proceed to rooting this. hopefully the stable AOKP will be part of today's release.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
maybe you can hit me up with a thanks
elementaldragon said:
Guess i'll have to try another time later. Not to mention the guy i chatted with didn't seem too bright. Asked if i could have the SIM Unlock code for my phone, and he said that AT&T sim cards cannot be unlocked.
Told me that it can't be unlocked because it is still contracted to AT&T. Told him i read that people have been getting them unlocked after a couple days of purchasing the device, on contract or not, and he said apparently i was misinformed. haha
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
lulz;
try a new chat rep, or call them.
like ive said a million times already:
as long as you've had your phone for 15 days or more, and your last months bill is paid in full, you will get an unlock code.
now hook me up with some thanks :silly:
If you're not in a position to call to get the code from AT&T (like me, who got from Ebay and lives in NZ), then cellunlocker.net worked for me in terms of getting a code. Just thought I would mention that for people who see this thread and come to find out about SIM unlocking.
yea, i bought my phone on July 26, so it's been 26 days, and since i just started my contracts with AT&T (new customer), i didn't have a last month's bill to pay. and yet the agent i had unlocked it for me with no questioning.
btw, would i be able to use the LTE SIM card from my old Verizon Galaxy Nexus as a "non-AT&T" SIM card?
If you're waiting on a sim like I was... just install the cm10 nightly for the 21st. It will show the unlock screen upon reboot. I didn't need a dialer code or sim. This bug allowed me to use the code I got from att to successfully unlock my phone.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using xda premium
NZtechfreak said:
If you're not in a position to call to get the code from AT&T (like me, who got from Ebay and lives in NZ), then cellunlocker.net worked for me in terms of getting a code. Just thought I would mention that for people who see this thread and come to find out about SIM unlocking.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is why I listed that site. Cause it works and not everyone has ATT. And sometimes they takes days to get a unlock code. Cellunlocker.net does it within minutes.
Sent from my SGH-I747 using xda premium
WOO! Actually got my unlock code this time.
i just bought a s3 and i have tmobile . how could i get it unlocked the cheapest way? and what service would be good to switch to non contract in central valley in california. any good sugestions
THIS
EDIT:
Use at your own risk I have not tried it on our model
jebise101 said:
THIS
EDIT:
Use at your own risk I have not tried it on our model
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
DO NOT USE THIS! It's for the 9300 international model, NOT the US models. Seriously, why would you recommend that someone try this?
---------- Post added at 09:31 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:30 AM ----------
valleyboss209 said:
i just bought a s3 and i have tmobile . how could i get it unlocked the cheapest way? and what service would be good to switch to non contract in central valley in california. any good sugestions
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
After 2-3 months T-Mobile should unlock it for you upon request. Just call them.
So I finally took the time to see if the SIM card from my old Verizon Galaxy Nexus would work.
I turned off my S3, put in the Verizon SIM, and started up. After I unlocked the screen, I was promoted to input unlock code or dismiss. I typed the code in and after a few minutes I was taken to my home screen.
I guess it's safe to say my S3 is now unlocked? If I really want to make sure, I would have to have a working SIM to put in my S3?
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using xda app-developers app
Related
Can any one please confirm if Hercules is locked to Tmobile
Thx
AG
Yes! Got it today to use with provider other than TMO but SIM is locked...Looking for unlocking solutions now!
darn it!
thanks for the confirmation.
any idea if the SIM unlock method for the SGS2 works on hercules too?
Try the SGS Unlock app from Market. Let us know if it unlocks.
Ya its a real bummer!
If your talking about the one on the market. I was considering that but it says needs (root) superuser???
I called Tmobile 4 times already. First they said they dont give the SIM unlock yet because of the 14 day return policy, so I would have to call back after then. Calls two and three was "you dont have an account with us? Oh sorry we cant give you the unlock code then... Final call our asked for supervisor and they transfer me to Tech. department. Tech guy was cool and gave me a number to fax my receipt showing I paid full retail for two phones plus some add'l info for them to be able to get back to me. He allow them 24-48 to get back to me!!! But it could take as long as 7-14 days. I'm sure each and everyone of them was looking at the SIM code unlock screen as we was talking. BOO TMO!!!
is tmobile really selling the phone for 529.99$?
i checked wirefly and letstalk, they charging like 600$ !
SaHiLzZ said:
Try the SGS Unlock app from Market. Let us know if it unlocks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
SGS Unlock free version does not work
Pro version needs root!
---------- Post added at 02:34 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:33 PM ----------
netnerd said:
is tmobile really selling the phone for 529.99$?
i checked wirefly and letstalk, they charging like 600$ !
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Got mine for $529.99 + sales tax at local tmo
Bummer... Need to cross border from Canada to get one myself as well.
Did anyone get unlocked or I guess everybody actually is on tmobile? I still need unlocking!
tenxo said:
Did anyone get unlocked or I guess everybody actually is on tmobile? I still need unlocking!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i just bought my phone full price too. and i forgot to ask that girl for the unlock code. i got the phone with 30$ prepaid plan, if coverage is good enought i'm going to cancel att!
Correct me if I'm wrong but from what I can recall is..
You can only request 1 "sim-subsidy unlock" every 6 months. Your post paid account must be active for at least 30 days. Prepaid accounts must be active for 60 days with at least $10 balance in the account. If you purchased a phone at full price, you can fax in your proof of purchase to the "Blackberry & PDA support department" for a response within 24-72 hours.
I work for T-Mobile, I'll check the specifics the next time I'm at work.
hydroidonic said:
Correct me if I'm wrong but from what I can recall is..
You can only request 1 "sim-subsidy unlock" every 6 months. Your post paid account must be active for at least 30 days. Prepaid accounts must be active for 60 days with at least $10 balance in the account. If you purchased a phone at full price, you can fax in your proof of purchase to the "Blackberry & PDA support department" for a response within 24-72 hours.
I work for T-Mobile, I'll check the specifics the next time I'm at work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That sounds about right on with what I was told. I dont have any sort of account with tmobile so I had to do the fax method so patiently waiting since 24 hours now.
Are they reliable to send if you did fax them receipt or do they still find a loop to say no?
[Q] T-Mobile USA T989 Samsung Galaxy S2 SIM UNLOCK
Anyone figured out how to SIM unlock the T-Mobile USA T989 Samsung Galaxy S2 SIM UNLOCK??
I found the link below, but not sure if it is real or a scam
Please advise ASAP
Thanks
call tmobile they will give you the code. tell them you leaving the country and will be using a different sim from the country you going to be in
b0ricuaguerrero said:
call tmobile they will give you the code. tell them you leaving the country and will be using a different sim from the country you going to be in
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is exactly what you need to do. I called to do it but actually never did, though they sent me the code. I decided it was better for me to just keep my number active for emergencies when I went abroad.
Sent from my Nexus S using Tapatalk
Do any of you mind requesting the unlock code for my Hercules? I am not a T-mobile subscriber. My cousin tried to do it for me, but they wanted a copy of the sales receipt....I bought from a phone shop, not an authorized T-mobile store, so I don't think they will accept my receipt.
ronj1986 said:
Do any of you mind requesting the unlock code for my Hercules? I am not a T-mobile subscriber. My cousin tried to do it for me, but they wanted a copy of the sales receipt....I bought from a phone shop, not an authorized T-mobile store, so I don't think they will accept my receipt.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried to help out someone off of Craigslist before by doing this. You will have to allow someone you trust who is a T-Mobile customer to put their sim card in your phone for a couple of days for T-Mobile to pick up the phone. I tried getting the code by using the persons imei number and they accepted it and then sent me an email 24 hours later about my sim card not being in the phone.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium
i won an att fone from a radio station once and called att , told em im wit tmobile, and they still hooked it up with the unlock code
My NSPRO box unlocks it....
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium
I tried going through the beaurocracy (or however it spells) of T-Mobile to get an unlock code, but never got one for various reasons. You're better off at least trying.
If you don't get it, cellunlocker.net is not a scam. I ordered an unlock code from them for my T989 and got my code within the day. All is unlocked and fine.
Reposted in it's own thread per suggestion.
Originally Posted by joewho21 View Post
Replying because i also have unlock issues. I just bought a rogers locked glide from newegg and an unlock code from cellphoneunlock.net. So far i"ve had no luck unlocking the device. I've tried all methods the unlock site suggested with and without an att sim card. So far none of them brings up the unlock pass code screen like i"ve seen in youtube videos and in other posts. Instead i get a "ussd code running" message followed by "connection problem or invalid mmi code" message. Phone isn"t rooted or modded and has only been factory reset so far. Thanks in advance for any help i can get.
Darkshado said:
First of all, you should start your own thread.
Second, aside from entering the code you've bought after being prompted for it by booting with a "foreign" SIM card, the two other methods out there involve root or CWM.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's the thing, i never get the prompt to enter the code. It just gives the two messages in order "ussd code running" followed by "connection problem or invalid mmi code" whenever i try to get the password screen. I'm just looking for a no frills way to get the prompt screen to show. If rooting is the easiest way so be it.
There is a way to get your unlock code for free.. calling at&t or rogers and telling them you want your unlock code and they by law must give it to you...
Why pay when your legally entitled to this code?
Current System:
CWMR Touch 6.0.0.1 (Stable)
i927ruclg9 ICS 4.0.4 stock
CWM keyboard backlight fix
Superuser 3.2 RC3 arm signed
Hazard1nc's Homepage
---------- Post added at 09:59 PM ---------- Previous post was at 09:58 PM ----------
You see, as long as you live in the united states, the department of justice laid the law down that you cannot be forced to buy a phone and be stuck to only that one network...
Current System:
CWMR Touch 6.0.0.1 (Stable)
i927ruclg9 ICS 4.0.4 stock
CWM keyboard backlight fix
Superuser 3.2 RC3 arm signed
Hazard1nc's Homepage
hazard1nc said:
There is a way to get your unlock code for free.. calling at&t or rogers and telling them you want your unlock code and they by law must give it to you...
Why pay when your legally entitled to this code?
You see, as long as you live in the united states, the department of justice laid the law down that you cannot be forced to buy a phone and be stuck to only that one network...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I heard that for Canada that they will give you the code after you contract is up because then you have fully paid for your phone and they are obligated since it is now yours. I have not tested this just heard it from a friend who will try this method in 6 months when his contract is over. Any one try this yet?
hazard1nc and dudejb: Going by my experience and http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SIM_lock
USA: T-Mobile has given codes as long as you fulfilled a few conditions. AT&T now gives them on request due to a binding class action lawsuit settlement/decision, not an actual law.
Canada: There was an attempt to mandate SIM unlocking by law, but the bill never passed. Carriers might provide a code according to their policies and whims, usually for a fee that's akin to highway robbery (50-75$). None will provide a code upon purchasing a phone outright either.
joewho21: I've searched for the errors you've had and couldn't come up with much.
MMI codes are like the codes you've used to get the phone's lock status and perhaps feed it an unlock code.
Is the error popping up on its own? With a SIM in the phone? Without?
My best-guess-based suggestion: without a SIM card in the phone, flash CWM, backup your /efs partition, making multiple copies. Then delete the nv_data.bin file on your phone, and reboot it. This should (and can be confirmed with nv.log afterwards) force the phone to restore the backup nv_data file. Depending on what NewEgg did to unlock at first, your phone should now be locked to Rogers, and still have its IMEI valid. Shut down the phone, insert your AT&T SIM and turn it back on. With any luck you should get a prompt and be on your way.
Update: After way too long looking up how to use odin and cwm. (they really need a super noob sticky for that) I flashed the att rom from this thread. http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1378082 . I got my unlock screen after entering *7465625*638*# and the phone can now make calls, text, and still double checking the web connection. (might have put in the wrong mnc code) Anyways just wanted to post a thank you for those that offered there assistance.
If you're having problems with internet (and mms) it's likely that you need to enter the correct APN settings. A quick search around these forums should mention how to do it.
hazard1nc said:
There is a way to get your unlock code for free.. calling at&t or rogers and telling them you want your unlock code and they by law must give it to you...
Why pay when your legally entitled to this code?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just want to make sure I am understanding this correctly: if I go to AT&T or Walmart and just buy a Captivate Glide outright, no contract or anything, I can then call AT&T and say hey I need the unlock code for the Captivate Glide? Or even get it at the AT&T store if I get it there instead of Walmart?
Better to wait 3 or 9 months depending on the contract - they can't toss out the SIM unlocking code when the phone's pretty fresh. Same for any carriers around here, from what I'm told.
Sent from my SGH-I927 using xda app-developers app
Dr. Mario said:
Better to wait 3 or 9 months depending on the contract - they can't toss out the SIM unlocking code when the phone's pretty fresh. Same for any carriers around here, from what I'm told.
Sent from my SGH-I927 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's kinda what I thought. I just want to buy the phone without ever having a contract. I pretty much thought the order would be buy the phone, buy the unlock code, insert the SIM card from Net10, have Net10 service. Though I've heard conflicting reports on whether AT&T stores will sell the phone outright without me signing up for a contract. Walmart, on the other hand, doesn't care, but somehow the Glide there is more expensive by about $100 than at an AT&T store.
Yeah... It does suck but some online store like www.newegg.com do sell the unlocked Android phones, even scary expensive ones cheap - sometimes they gets put up for sales - I remember SGH-I927 was to be sold for $250 there. I'll check.
EDIT: Yup, still $250.
And I bought mine used at a pawnshop for $150 as I had to ditch the Straight Talk phone, since I have been having issues with few peoples (long story), but now the problem's solved. AT&T gave me the SIM unlock code instantly as it's maybe a few months old and was sold off as a second-hand so I'm not binded to the contract. And if you bought a phone with the full price paid off, not subsidized, they can give you the SIM code, you gotta check with some AT&T CSR who have the patience.
Sent from my SGH-I927 using xda app-developers app
Dr. Mario said:
Yeah... It does suck but some online store like www.newegg.com do sell the unlocked Android phones, even scary expensive ones cheap - sometimes they gets put up for sales - I remember SGH-I927 was to be sold for $250 there. I'll check.
EDIT: Yup, still $250.
And I bought mine used at a pawnshop for $150 as I had to ditch the Straight Talk phone, since I have been having issues with few peoples (long story), but now the problem's solved. AT&T gave me the SIM unlock code instantly as it's maybe a few months old and was sold off as a second-hand so I'm not binded to the contract. And if you bought a phone with the full price paid off, not subsidized, they can give you the SIM code, you gotta check with some AT&T CSR who have the patience.
Sent from my SGH-I927 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats sad! I purchased AT&T 2 Glides and one iphone4 at walmart last year. got them with a 2yr contract for just under $100 each. they wanted to sell me insurance for an extra 4.99 a month. I asked, "If I have to use the insurance, what is my deductible?" I was told that for all smart phones, I would have to pay $200 for a replacement! If I can get a "unlocked" glide online new in the box for $250 - $300 why should I pay $4.99 every month plus when something happens, have to pay another $200! I laughed, declined and said I'll take my chances! The sales clerk had the nerve to ask... "Are you sure you don't want insurance" God forbid something happen to my Glide, I still have my old moto razr as backup!
EpicMikeNC said:
That's kinda what I thought. I just want to buy the phone without ever having a contract. I pretty much thought the order would be buy the phone, buy the unlock code, insert the SIM card from Net10, have Net10 service. Though I've heard conflicting reports on whether AT&T stores will sell the phone outright without me signing up for a contract. Walmart, on the other hand, doesn't care, but somehow the Glide there is more expensive by about $100 than at an AT&T store.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Checkout http://m.straighttalksim.com/view/page/p/88719/straighttalksim-mobile-home
U dnt have to have ur phone unlocked if its an att phone.
I'm usen a ST sim and my phone is still locked
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I927 using Tapatalk 2
A while ago I had the same problem and I got so frustrated as the unlock code did not work and there was no prompt when i entered the string of numbers. I ended up using this solution http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1595756
After seeing your update I tried the string of numbers again and the prompt came up for my ics-flashed i927 and it worked. My phone is now restored to the original IMEI, works and I dont have to worry about voiding my warranty with a generic IMEI anymore. I just hope the phone won't relock itself out of the blue like some users have experienced.
Thanks a lot!
joewho21 said:
Update: After way too long looking up how to use odin and cwm. (they really need a super noob sticky for that) I flashed the att rom from this thread. http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1378082 . I got my unlock screen after entering *7465625*638*# and the phone can now make calls, text, and still double checking the web connection. (might have put in the wrong mnc code) Anyways just wanted to post a thank you for those that offered there assistance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LiquidXed said:
Checkout http://m.straighttalksim.com/view/page/p/88719/straighttalksim-mobile-home
U dnt have to have ur phone unlocked if its an att phone.
I'm usen a ST sim and my phone is still locked
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I927 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The problem though is that I plan on making repeat travels to Mexico. The first time I went I got Movistar.. I'd like to be able to take the sim out of that Movistar phone and put it in the Glide for when I go back to Mexico. I think it has to be unlocked to do that.
I told att that my phone was bought off non contract
they unlocked it!
djarpit said:
I told att that my phone was bought off non contract
they unlocked it!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LOL, thats funny! You shouldn't have had to even do that - I've been told/and have read, that they will unlock as long as your account is in good standing with them Still though - thats good to hear you got unlocked!
Yea.... i (and many others, as it seems) simply went onto their online chat support, and asked if i could get the unlock code for my phone, just in case the need arises where i have to use a SIM from a different carrier. Took two tries talking to different people, but got it unlocked. I don't think they're quite as strict with the idea of keeping your phone tied to them until the contract is up with other phones as they are with the iPhone in particular.
i got the unlock code from the 1st chat with the rep no problem. i havent been able to get it unlocked because i dont have a different sim.
is it even possible to unlock if i leave the att sim in?
It should be fine.
Sent from my SGH-I747 using xda app-developers app
polobreaka said:
i got the unlock code from the 1st chat with the rep no problem. i havent been able to get it unlocked because i dont have a different sim.
is it even possible to unlock if i leave the att sim in?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It may be an awful roundabout way of doing it at this point, but maybe if you can get your hands on one of the earlier builds of CM10. There used to be an issue where on the first boot after installing CM10, the unlock code prompt would come up. Don't remember exactly when that was, though....
I sold my sgs2 when I bought my sgs3.
Wanted an unlock code and att refused. I explained that I wasn't trying to cancel my contract and just wanted to give it to my dad since I got a sgs3..
Att still refused but credited my account 150 for my trouble?!?! Haha
Worked for me!
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using xda premium
I've been with AT&T for years. IMHO, they are very helpful, and will usually compensate you for your trouble. Case in point: Found out that AT&T will give you a 15% discount on your bill, if you were honorably discharged from the service. They could not "back date" my discount, but gave me a $350.00 credit towards my next bill(bills). I'm staying with AT&T.:good:
Canadian carriers
Hey,
Does anyone know if Canadian carriers are able to give the unlock codes? (Rogers to be specific)
Thanks
djaswal said:
Hey,
Does anyone know if Canadian carriers are able to give the unlock codes? (Rogers to be specific)
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They can, but they wont usually do it while under contract. They seem to like to push to let them do it (if you're at the store) and charge you 50 dollars. This has been my experience at least
grunt0300 said:
I've been with AT&T for years. IMHO, they are very helpful, and will usually compensate you for your trouble. Case in point: Found out that AT&T will give you a 15% discount on your bill, if you were honorably discharged from the service. They could not "back date" my discount, but gave me a $350.00 credit towards my next bill(bills). I'm staying with AT&T.:good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Fwiw they will give almost any one who is in college or a graduate of college a discount too. Just need a edu email. Used my alumni address. I can't remember if it is 5 or 10%. they have a website to register. I believe that you get business class service from the csrs.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using Tapatalk 2
djaswal said:
Hey,
Does anyone know if Canadian carriers are able to give the unlock codes? (Rogers to be specific)
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My buddy world for Rogers and they're not allowed to give out the unlock codes. You might get lucky and get a rep who doesn't care, but if they got caught Thats it for them. I've been trying to con my buddy when i rolled with black berry. I found it was v chapter and effort to pay the $1 on eBay and get one. I'm not sure on the unlock process with the S3 though. Is it more complicated?
Sent from my SGH-I747 using xda app-developers app
I didnt know having an unlocked phone was that big of a deal. Thank goodness I purchased mine as "unlocked" to begin with. I got lucky!!
GSM Phone unlocking - the easy way....
To get a SIM unlock, all you have to say is that you will be traveling overseas and you need the phone unlocked so you can use a GSM sim local to the places you will be going.
In general, it doesn't really matter much if the SIM is unlocked locally.
Now, if you want the phone unlocked for loading new OS's, the i747 usually does allow loading of other OS's such as CM10 and other Android versions. While the BootLoader is still locked, there are sites where you can get it unlocked. Albeit I hear that you will loose your DRM information because of it.
My son is in the Army and I had a new phone unlocked for him. I explained that he will be deployed and needed something for local GSM coverage, without suffering the costs of AT&T International roaming. Got it unlocked by AT&T in one call.
Just my experience and $.02...
Just spoke to AT&T a few hours ago. They gave me the unlock code for my old Captivate which I had upgraded to an SGS3 a week ago for my wife. I asked about unlocking my SGS3 (1 month old) and was told that they would be able to givw me the code after I had had the phone for 90 days. They also said that I could have only five phones unlocked every 12 months.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747
So I was unfortunate that I missed out on the free unlock on 4.1.1 and was unable to unlock my phone. I contacted T-Mobile and they said that I need to wait 18 months before I am able to get an unlock code. ... Is there any other way to unlock my phone? Don't plan on rooting my phone. I am traveling internationally in a month or so.
Easy as pie, downgrade to the stock 4.1.1 rom with Odin, unlock it, upgrade to the latest stock for your phone again with Odin, set up all your apps and settings again, profit. I would test a different sim card before upgrading again to make sure the sim unlock works, if it does it will be permanent, providing you did it the right way.
GS3 T999V
neysito said:
Easy as pie, downgrade to the stock 4.1.1 rom with Odin, unlock it, upgrade to the latest stock for your phone again with Odin, set up all your apps and settings again, profit. I would test a different sim card before upgrading again to make sure the sim unlock works, if it does it will be permanent, providing you did it the right way.
GS3 T999V
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Like I said in my post, I don't want to do any flashing. Was hoping if there were any other way.
Armoredx said:
Like I said in my post, I don't want to do any flashing. Was hoping if there were any other way.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Then, nope.
+Cool story, bro!
+The "Thanks" you get from me is not just thanks, but can be laughing, props, +1, and so on
you can always pay a lil' to get the unlock code for yr phone from alot online store.
Why did they say you have to wait that long? I have called them so many times over the years to unlock all kinds of different phones. They emailed me the code in a few days of each call. At times I was on contract and other times I was not. So for me it didn't matter I always got the code. They told me I can get a phone unlocked every few months at the longest but at one time I got 2 codes in one month.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
T-Mobile Unlock Code Will Not Work!
dpshptl said:
Why did they say you have to wait that long? I have called them so many times over the years to unlock all kinds of different phones. They emailed me the code in a few days of each call. At times I was on contract and other times I was not. So for me it didn't matter I always got the code. They told me I can get a phone unlocked every few months at the longest but at one time I got 2 codes in one month.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I called T-Mobile to get an unlock code for my T-Mobile T999 phone. It will not work. They said try another sim from another provider. Got a sim from AT&T and tried again. No luck. I paid three different unlock companies and neither of them was able to give me a code to unlock my phone. I have tried 4 times to unlock. I heard if you try too many times, phone will lock permanently. Is that true? I also tried the unlock routine I found in a previous post but unfortunately, in the last step, option four is missing. I am running 4.1.2. What can I do now to unlock the phone?
Downgrade your modem and try again. Samsung patched the unlock in 4.1.2.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Any news on sim unlocking nc2?
Sent from my Nexus 4 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Either call tmobile or buy an unlock code.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using Tapatalk
I have two prepaid accounts with tmob. Both had over $100 airtime at some point in the past. One now has $0.03, the other is $107. I requested for one acct, denied, reps resubmitted 4 times, assured i'm eligible for the code. I bought the phone at walmart and used my existing active sims. In the past i had no problems getting sim unlock codes. Now tmob wants me to buy $100 airtime at the time i first bought the phone. I then tried the other acct. Rep checked immediately i would not be eligible for the same reason, even though i have $107 airtime. I immediately closed one account.
Fk tmobile. I'm done with this company. No reason to buy their phones. I paid for the phone. Its mine now. The manufacturer supplies the code, tmob controls if/when i should get it. After i use up the airtime i'm closing the account and going with better rate providers.
I just bought a brand new Galaxy Note 3 from a T-MOBILE store to use it with AT&T. The phone has never been activated before and I was wondering can I just insert my AT&T sim card and unlock it with the code that I have? or does the phone have to be activated first with a T-MOBILE sim card before I can unlock it to AT&T?
The region lock is kind of confusing me...
memee4eva said:
I just bought a brand new Galaxy Note 3 from a T-MOBILE store to use it with AT&T. The phone has never been activated before and I was wondering can I just insert my AT&T sim card and unlock it with the code that I have? or does the phone have to be activated first with a T-MOBILE sim card before I can unlock it to AT&T?
The region lock is kind of confusing me...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
From what I heard it needs to be activated first. BUT, I think it needs to be activated if you plan on using it outside this region (country). I'd say give it a shot and see. If not... if it's not rooted, just take it back lol (j/k).
But I think the region lock stuff applies to international users, or those that want to use it internationally. Region lock I think is used to prevent people from selling these devices outside the country without it first being activated within the country... If I'm wrong, someone may clarify...
memee4eva said:
I just bought a brand new Galaxy Note 3 from a T-MOBILE store to use it with AT&T. The phone has never been activated before and I was wondering can I just insert my AT&T sim card and unlock it with the code that I have? or does the phone have to be activated first with a T-MOBILE sim card before I can unlock it to AT&T?
The region lock is kind of confusing me...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is NO region lock if you purchased the phone
from a tmobile store, they region unlock all their
phones which need it before they sell you the phone.
Only the international NOTE 3 phone models have the
region lock intact and must be activated in the country
of origin with a valid sim card from that region or country.
If you purchased the phone at a Tmobile store then you have
nothing to be worried about, it's already activated and all it needs
is a valid active Tmobile sim card installed.
The Tmobile Note 3 does not come unlocked but Tmobile will
email you a unlock code with instructions if you request it. (free)
The Tmobile phone will not work with an AT&T sim card
unless you request an unlock code from Tmobile & unlock it.
(or using your valid unlock code if you have one)
The phone must have a valid tmobile sim card installed in order
to unlock it successfully.
After it's unlocked you can remove the tmobile sim card and
replace it with an AT&T or any other active sim card.
You must wait at least 14 days to request an unlock code
because that's how long you have to return the phone for
a full refund.
It's easy to unlock, takes less than 30 seconds.
Once unlocked it will work in any country or region.
Good luck!
So there's no region lock on 900T from t-mobile?
How did you buy a phone without an account??
Just bite the bullet and purchase a 3rd party unlock code...
Good Luck!
sloanster said:
How did you buy a phone without an account??
Just bite the bullet and purchase a 3rd party unlock code...
Good Luck!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You need to insert a t-mobile sim to unlock the code with an unlock code? Really?
I never said you needed a T-Mobile sim.... (however it is possible)
I'm still interested in knowing how you purchased without account... Do you mind sharing?
newr said:
You need to insert a t-mobile sim to unlock the code with an unlock code? Really?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
sloanster said:
I never said you needed a T-Mobile sim.... (however it is possible)
I'm still interested in knowing how you purchased without account... Do you mind sharing?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Got it from ebay...could be a dud!
tmobile is not just handing out the unlock code even if u did purchase it at full price. i just called them today myself. you have to have an account that has had atleast $100 put through it. i told them i dont have an account i purchased out right and should be able to get the code. they said it was the only way otherwise i could pay samsung or a third party company. finally im like wait my girlfriend has had a prepay acount for like 6 months. thats way over the 100 that they want so they transfered me to the prepay department and i explained to them what was going on. i confirmed the account information with them gave them my imei and they said that i will have an email with in 24hrs with the code. so now im just waiting for the email.
Great! and good luck!
If that backfires you can go to 3rd party such as Fastgsm.com or many others just look at the reviews 1st..
stash9123 said:
tmobile is not just handing out the unlock code even if u did purchase it at full price. i just called them today myself. you have to have an account that has had atleast $100 put through it. i told them i dont have an account i purchased out right and should be able to get the code. they said it was the only way otherwise i could pay samsung or a third party company. finally im like wait my girlfriend has had a prepay acount for like 6 months. thats way over the 100 that they want so they transfered me to the prepay department and i explained to them what was going on. i confirmed the account information with them gave them my imei and they said that i will have an email with in 24hrs with the code. so now im just waiting for the email.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
stash9123 said:
tmobile is not just handing out the unlock code even if u did purchase it at full price. i just called them today myself. you have to have an account that has had atleast $100 put through it. i told them i dont have an account i purchased out right and should be able to get the code. they said it was the only way otherwise i could pay samsung or a third party company. finally im like wait my girlfriend has had a prepay acount for like 6 months. thats way over the 100 that they want so they transfered me to the prepay department and i explained to them what was going on. i confirmed the account information with them gave them my imei and they said that i will have an email with in 24hrs with the code. so now im just waiting for the email.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If anyone else tries this...
The phone must be activated on the t-mobile network for 40 days ($100 minimum) and be paid in full in order to get the unlock code.
I can't remember where I read that, but I also confirmed with a rep because I am considering leaving to a pre-paid service.
If not, you would have to use one of the other ways of unlocking the phone.
Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk
+1
noobtoob said:
If anyone else tries this...
The phone must be activated on the t-mobile network for 40 days ($100 minimum) and be paid in full in order to get the unlock code.
I can't remember where I read that, but I also confirmed with a rep because I am considering leaving to a pre-paid service.
If not, you would have to use one of the other ways of unlocking the phone.
Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
noobtoob said:
If anyone else tries this...
The phone must be activated on the t-mobile network for 40 days ($100 minimum) and be paid in full in order to get the unlock code.
I can't remember where I read that, but I also confirmed with a rep because I am considering leaving to a pre-paid service.
If not, you would have to use one of the other ways of unlocking the phone.
Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
incorrect i just called them to ask why i havnt recieved and the lady checked the acoount said i had been approved and read me my number now i have a redpocket sim wich is att working in my phone
stash9123 said:
incorrect i just called them to ask why i havnt recieved and the lady checked the acoount said i had been approved and read me my number now i have a redpocket sim wich is att working in my phone
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So you are leasing your phone and on another network?
Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk
noobtoob said:
So you are leasing your phone and on another network?
Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i own the phone but havnt activated it through tmobile. i had a simple mobile account and wanted to switch to att. tmobile told me i needed a active tmobile account tht has had 100 dollars on it so i used my girlfriends since she has had it for 6ish months. but have nvr used my phone on her account
stash9123 said:
i own the phone but havnt activated it through tmobile. i had a simple mobile account and wanted to switch to att. tmobile told me i needed a active tmobile account tht has had 100 dollars on it so i used my girlfriends since she has had it for 6ish months. but have nvr used my phone on her account
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So that still stands as correct then. As you just piggy backed on your girlfriends account that has been active for well over 40 days, thus approving your unlock code.
I am only speaking as if you do not have an account. If you buy the phone straight up, in order to give the unlock code they want an account (note I didn't say the device itself, which in my earlier post did say. Oops.) that had been active for 40 days and at least 1 month payment. Otherwise everyone would just buy their phones from them and they would make little profit.
There are always ways around getting a code. As some people mentioned you can always tell them you are going to be over seas and need a code. I have even found that being nice enough, and getting the right person, you sometimes get lucky.
Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk
memee4eva said:
I just bought a brand new Galaxy Note 3 from a T-MOBILE store to use it with AT&T. The phone has never been activated before and I was wondering can I just insert my AT&T sim card and unlock it with the code that I have? or does the phone have to be activated first with a T-MOBILE sim card before I can unlock it to AT&T?
The region lock is kind of confusing me...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Please check this link. I think you know about it. Am I right?
http://www.usoftphone.com/t109846.html
Chainfires region lock away app removes the Sim lock. I was able to use my att Sim on a tmobile note 3 without entering any unlock code
Sent from my SM-N900T using XDA Free mobile app
That means after 40 days you can request for the unlock code?
Lorettaa said:
That means after 40 days you can request for the unlock code?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Huh?
No it means he is now unlocked and doesn't need an unlock code.