Develop Bugs

Root and Unlock SIM

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

help with i927r unlocking

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.

Guide: How I unlocked my ATT S3

I read for about 2 hours on how to unlock this thing. Many said to call Att, some said to log in and live-chat, some say to use a 3rd party service. I called Att USA and got the run around 3 times. I don't have an ATT account so I couldnt log in....I tried the auto chat service and it gave me a number for ATT International. I called and within 60 seconds the gentleman gave me the code over the phone, no questions asked sans the IMEI code.
Here was the number I used......1-800-335-4685
I am not hard core developer, I am just a regular guy who reads before he asks. I hope this helps someone out.

Jasonator said:
I read for about 2 hours on how to unlock this thing. Many said to call Att, some said to log in and live-chat, some say to use a 3rd party service. I called Att USA and got the run around 3 times. I don't have an ATT account so I couldnt log in....I tried the auto chat service and it gave me a number for ATT International. I called and within 60 seconds the gentleman gave me the code over the phone, no questions asked sans the IMEI code.
Here was the number I used......1-800-335-4685
I am not hard core developer, I am just a regular guy who reads before he asks. I hope this helps someone out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
your the man or woman that number rocks i had to go through two reps but i got my unlock code thanks for the info

not sure if you found this information or not, but for others wanting to know... only speak with the International Reps!!!
whether it be via phone or chat, this department is the only department that can give you the unlock code.
do not ask in-store about, do not call customer service. go straight to the source.
my story: after 14 days of being a brand new AT&T customer, i logged in and chatted with an International Rep, no questions asked about why i wanted an unlock, he just gave me the unlock code upon request. first try.

chat rep gave me mine within 4 minutes. said I had to put another sim into the slot and type in the unlock code.
Is there a way to do this without a different sim?
Wife and I are planning a trip to france and wanted to unlock to have phone service over there.

Looking for steps on how to do it without another similar as well. Also full steps, my rep was less than helpful in that department. I got the code, but other than that nothing else useful from them.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using xda app-developers app

can they unlock Canadian Rogers S3 phone?

Sealwolfy said:
can they unlock Canadian Rogers S3 phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just call and find out really.. I would do it but not where i am right now...

rthomas10 said:
chat rep gave me mine within 4 minutes. said I had to put another sim into the slot and type in the unlock code.
Is there a way to do this without a different sim?
Wife and I are planning a trip to france and wanted to unlock to have phone service over there.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was not able to find another way to do it. On the international version, one of the *# codes on the dialer works, but not on our's. However, I was able to unlock it by going to a T-Mobile store and asking them really nicely whether I could borrow one of their sims for two minutes so I could unlock my phone. They agreed with no issue, and my phone is now unlocked.

Just called and they told me they can only unlock phones that are from USA AT&T customers only.
JohnM109R said:
Just call and find out really.. I would do it but not where i am right now...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Jasonator said:
I read for about 2 hours on how to unlock this thing. Many said to call Att, some said to log in and live-chat, some say to use a 3rd party service. I called Att USA and got the run around 3 times. I don't have an ATT account so I couldnt log in....I tried the auto chat service and it gave me a number for ATT International. I called and within 60 seconds the gentleman gave me the code over the phone, no questions asked sans the IMEI code.
Here was the number I used......1-800-335-4685
I am not hard core developer, I am just a regular guy who reads before he asks. I hope this helps someone out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This worked! Many thanks

online chat rep worked for me for three different lines
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using xda app-developers app

Anyone post the steps on how to actually do it? They gave me the code, but no instructions.

Seanbest said:
Anyone post the steps on how to actually do it? They gave me the code, but no instructions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Turn off phone
swap out sims
turn on phone
put in code

Sorry for the noob question but do I need to be on stock to unlock or can this be done while on a non stock rom?

JohnM109R said:
Just call and find out really.. I would do it but not where i am right now...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Only the original carrier can unlock the phones.. it's the specific carrier that has the unlock code..
Try calling Rogers and telling them you're going to Europe.. I've got my unlock code for one of my old phones doing that

No, you can be rooted. You need a different carriers Sim and when you insert that and power on the phone it will ask you for the code. Input code, it will finish powering up and then give it a minute or two and Voila!
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda premium

dLo GSR said:
online chat rep worked for me for three different lines
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Chat works when you have an account. This is for those of us that don't. This will likely work with any att phone BTW.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda premium

zexco said:
Only the original carrier can unlock the phones.. it's the specific carrier that has the unlock code..
Try calling Rogers and telling them you're going to Europe.. I've got my unlock code for one of my old phones doing that
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes I try calling Rogers, they wanted $50 to unlock

zexco said:
Only the original carrier can unlock the phones.. it's the specific carrier that has the unlock code..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's not entirely true. There are pay services such as cellunlocker.net that can unlock your phone in minutes. I just tried to unlock my old S2 through AT&T to get more selling it and the AT&T rep said my device wasn't "eligible" for an unlock code. Then, immediately went to cellunlocker and got an unlock code in about five minutes online and didn't have to deal with any idiot AT&T reps. Cost me $25 but it was worth it in that my phone sold in about 15 minutes and I didn't have time to deal with AT&T's bs.
Wish I knew about the number posted in the OP, I would've tried that and maybe saved some money.

Also got mine through chat no questions asked and noe she is unlocked. BOOM!

MetroPCS Sends Unlocking Codes for My S4 -- with No Instructions

So I've owned my S4 for 90 days and paid my bills on time. As other S4 owners on MetroPCS will tell you, that made me eligible for unlocking codes -- as the MetroPCS salesperson who convinced me to buy the phone assured me it would.
Sure enough, after requesting the code, I received a ticket number and, three days later, was sent a "network code" and a "service provider code" -- and no instructions whatsoever on how to use them.
Since then, I've called MetroPCS and gotten customer service people with no idea what to do -- "ask your new carrier to do it" was the common answer. Eventually, I called the corporate office in Harlem and was subjected to one of the rudest women I've ever encountered. When I explained that I had a ticket number for the request, she chanted "MetroPCS doesn't unlock phones!" loudly and at a continually escalating volume -- it was like being stuck in a room with the most obnoxious character in a reality show about career alcoholics. When I tried to tell her to look up my account, and that MetroPCs had in fact sent me the code she said was "illegal," she continued to yell the words until she hung up on me.
This is a process I was promised from the first day I bought the phone. I hadn't even been interested in changing carriers just yet (though that woman is making me reconsider!). All I want is to be able to swap the SIM when I leave the country and root my phone while using it on the GSM carrier of my choice. As long as the phone I bought outright is locked, I can't do either thing.
I realize that discussions about unlocking phones without permission is forbidden on these forums, but MetroPCS gave me permission! They just don't seem to know how to do the thing they gave me permission to do!
I was on the phone with MetroPCS for a solid hour today. I'd rather give myself a home vasectomy than go through that again.

You simply put in a SIM card from a different carrier and the phone will popup a window that requests you to input an unlock code, which I'm guessing is what MetroPCS gave you.

Exel said:
You simply put in a SIM card from a different carrier and the phone will popup a window that requests you to input an unlock code, which I'm guessing is what MetroPCS gave you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
People who have tried to root MetroPCS S4s have been unable to do so because the phone is locked. Will unlocking the SIM unlock that capability as well?

Reignogleph MMXI said:
People who have tried to root MetroPCS S4s have been unable to do so because the phone is locked. Will unlocking the SIM unlock that capability as well?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
SIM unlocking and rooting is two totally different thing.

baseballfanz said:
SIM unlocking and rooting is two totally different thing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As I thought.
The two codes offered by MetroPCS were a service provider code and a network code.
A few people who tried to root the phone reported being stopped by a restriction which prevented it (I'll link to the thread on XDA which contains those posts later tonight -- I'm about to go to sleep before work).
I wondered whether either of the two codes sent by MetroPCS might have any effect on that restriction. As I say, I'll be more specific later tonight.

Reignogleph MMXI said:
As I thought.
The two codes offered by MetroPCS were a service provider code and a network code.
A few people who tried to root the phone reported being stopped by a restriction which prevented it (I'll link to the thread on XDA which contains those posts later tonight -- I'm about to go to sleep before work).
I wondered whether either of the two codes sent by MetroPCS might have any effect on that restriction. As I say, I'll be more specific later tonight.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I believe you're talking about the KNOX thing, where it sees root it "blocks" it due to how KNOX functions.
But as someone said before, rooting and unlocking are two different things. Unlocking does not require root nor any file changes. Simply input the unlock code as I said earlier.

Exel said:
I believe you're talking about the KNOX thing, where it sees root it "blocks" it due to how KNOX functions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'd love to know more about "the KNOX thing" -- specifically what it is and whether it can be defeated.
I'll do a search on XDA and google the term as well, but any other help would be greatly appreciated. I'd like to be able to customize my S4.
Edit: Aha! You're talking about this: "The KNOX thing."

By the way, since you were given TWO codes, perhaps we can clarify. The unluck code is probably the Network code, probably denoted "NCK". The other code is in case the phone is also locked by the Service Provide (MetroPCS in your case), in which case you'll also need to put this one in. But use the Network code first.

WhosAsking said:
By the way, since you were given TWO codes, perhaps we can clarify. The unluck code is probably the Network code, probably denoted "NCK". The other code is in case the phone is also locked by the Service Provide (MetroPCS in your case), in which case you'll also need to put this one in. But use the Network code first.
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Click to collapse
Thank you, WhosAsking -- that's exactly what I was asking about!
My understanding is that, once you unlock the SIM option, you need never worry about unlocking it again even if you go back to using the original SIM (as it were).
Is the same thing true of the provider code? Will unlocking it have no effect on one's service with that provider or is unlocking it something that is only done when one changes providers?
BTW: This is the message I meant to look up before. Given what the two of you have said, I think I misunderstood the message and that it applies only to changing the SIM.
I realize these questions make me sound like a diaper-clad novice, but I think it's better (and more honest) to get the help one really needs in depth than to pretend to be knowledgeable and not quite understand what one is doing.

Reignogleph MMXI said:
Thank you, WhosAsking -- that's exactly what I was asking about!
My understanding is that, once you unlock the SIM option, you need never worry about unlocking it again even if you go back to using the original SIM (as it were).
Is the same thing true of the provider code? Will unlocking it have no effect on one's service with that provider or is unlocking it something that is only done when one changes providers?
BTW: This is the message I meant to look up before. Given what the two of you have said, I think I misunderstood the message and that it applies only to changing the SIM.
I realize these questions make me sound like a diaper-clad novice, but I think it's better (and more honest) to get the help one really needs in depth than to pretend to be knowledgeable and not quite understand what one is doing.
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Those instructions are if you don't have an unlock code.

Exel said:
Those instructions are if you don't have an unlock code.
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Ah, but there's the irony -- there haven't been any instructions. That person was talking about the impasse he reached because he didn't have codes to unlock the SIM but thought there might be a deeper issue.
The reason I don't feel too stupid about this is because I note that when one pays for unlock codes, they're accompanied by actual instructions for the person who's doing it all for the first time (and since I've been on non-GSM carriers until now, that would be me).
Anyway, thanks.

I thought like what was already suggested that you put other carriers sim in and it'll ask for said codes?
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futty said:
I thought like what was already suggested that you put other carriers sim in and it'll ask for said codes?
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WhosAsking answered the question, which is why I thanked that member.
On the other hand, the email that contained the codes and reps of the carrier -- MetroPCS -- not only offered no instructions but couldn't give any. As I mentioned above, one of them even screamed repeatedly that what I was asking for was illegal and then hung up the phone in mid-scream. That MetroPCS Harlem corporate store -- classy!
BTW: I've been reading about the region prompt and I wonder whether the lock isn't imposed by MetroPCS at all but is rather the region lock we've been associating with the Note 3. Perhaps the only difference is that T-Mobile gives you the code right away and MetroPCS, a pay-as-you-go variant, makes you wait to ensure that three months.
See this article.
Samsung shed further light on its region-locking policies on Friday, explaining that the locks only affect users the first time they activate the handset. The manufacturer also said the locks apply not only to the new Galaxy Note 3, as we reported on Thursday, but also to units of the Galaxy S4, Galaxy S4 mini, Galaxy Note II and Galaxy S III that were produced after July.
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Here at last is an article that details the differences between the region lock and carrier lock which are particular to the Note 3 in general and to the Galaxy S4 sold (like mine, technically) after July 2013:
The article and video
And by the way: This article is reason enough for me to have hesitated before using various codes. MetroPCS users appear to have gotten locked S4s, so this might be a good read for anyone who did:
How to Avoid Regional SIM Lock Problems

Sprint gave me MSL when I asked for GSM Unlock??

So I just called Sprint to see if I could unlock my Galaxy Note 4 for international use.. The girl on the line after putting on hold a few times, comes back and says they can't unlock it but can give me the code to give to the other carrier and they will be able to unlock for GSM use.. I said ok and she gave me the MSL.
As I understand it, MSL is just for some menus in the phone and not useful in unlocking GSM/SIM use..
What are my options? ..
Edit:.. I called again, got the sprint international support number (888-226-7212) and these people seem to understand what GSM Unlock actually is LOL ..
anyway.. They tell me that the phone have to be active on my account for at least 90 days before they unlock it..
I did buy the phone used from EBay and to my understand it is paid for in full.. Sprint Rep also confirmed that.. It is also active and works fine on my account right now but I only activated it today..
So - What is this nonsense about having to wait 90 days?
One more EDIT: .. I called the international support # again. This time with some info I found on the sprint website.. (https://www.sprint.com/legal/unlocking_policy.html) .. They were telling me that the device have to be active on my account for 90 days.. but the site says this:
"The applicable device is currently active on a Sprint account and the applicable account has been active for at least 90 days. "
So, after reading this back to them, she went ahead.. although with frustration and I could tell she didn't like that.. but did unlock it for me

Sprint gave me an MSL, too, but so far it's been USELESS!
I bought my Sprint Samsung Galaxy Note 4 in April 2015.
I've been calling and dealing with Sprint since December 2015, trying to get them to unlock my Note 4 for use w/ ANY other carriers. (It does not seem to be possible.)
The 4 or 5 separate times I've called Sprint, the outcome has been the same. They put me on hold, and all I get in the end is an "MSL code" ... to be used by the new carrier to "unlock" the phone for use w/ other (domestic) carriers.
I've been told on a few of those initial calls to Sprint that my phone "unlock" was complete.
I've gone to Metro PCS (several times), T-Mobile, etc. So far no luck.
The phone still seems to be LOCKED for Sprint use ONLY.
I've tried the following SIMs on the phone, NONE have worked: Metro PCS, H2O, T-Mobile (1 live and 1 to be activated), SimpleMobile, and a friend's live SIM.
The message the on the phone is: Invalid SIM card.
My phone was purchased new, for Sprint, everything in good standing. Paid in full. No longer in contract. Not blacklisted, etc.
So, Mr. Q, basically, I find it hard to believe that your Sprint Note 4 was "unlocked."
However, I am going to call this number, and see what results I get. Especially since my phone was bought from Sprint and has been active and on Sprint since day 1.
P.S. You write that the lady did "unlock" your Sprint Note 4 for you. What exactly does this mean? Are you able to use other SIMs now?
Do tell. Please...
I await your reply!
Mr. Q 5 said:
So I just called Sprint to see if I could unlock my Galaxy Note 4 for international use.. The girl on the line after putting on hold a few times, comes back and says they can't unlock it but can give me the code to give to the other carrier and they will be able to unlock for GSM use.. I said ok and she gave me the MSL.
As I understand it, MSL is just for some menus in the phone and not useful in unlocking GSM/SIM use..
What are my options? ..
Edit:.. I called again, got the sprint international support number (888-226-7212) and these people seem to understand what GSM Unlock actually is LOL ..
anyway.. They tell me that the phone have to be active on my account for at least 90 days before they unlock it..
I did buy the phone used from EBay and to my understand it is paid for in full.. Sprint Rep also confirmed that.. It is also active and works fine on my account right now but I only activated it today..
So - What is this nonsense about having to wait 90 days?
One more EDIT: .. I called the international support # again. This time with some info I found on the sprint website.. (ht tps sprint com legal unlocking policy html) .. They were telling me that the device have to be active on my account for 90 days.. but the site says this:
"The applicable device is currently active on a Sprint account and the applicable account has been active for at least 90 days. "
So, after reading this back to them, she went ahead.. although with frustration and I could tell she didn't like that.. but did unlock it for me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

PRS247 said:
I bought my Sprint Samsung Galaxy Note 4 in April 2015. ...
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Here is how I understand it, for the Note 4, Sprint will only unlock it for International Use. Meaning we won't be able to use it on any other carrier here in the U.S. and even that, if you try to use the phone you will only get Voice/SMS and 3g internet.
I am not even sure yet if it's really unlocked and I can't try it until I go to another country.. However, they did sent some kind of update to the device and told me to go to the phone Settings, Update and then UICC Unlock. Now on the Sprint website there is a menu and have a selection that says "Unlock my phone" or something like that, it says Phone is already unlocked for International use.
So.. does not seem like you can GSM Unlock Note 4 for domestic use.
If you or others want my advice, it is to set aside some extra money and buy a real factory unlocked phone that will work in the U.S. and outside the U.S. on GSM.. and that phone is not going to be a Sprint one.
However, if you do still want to unlock GSM use inside the U.S. I think the option is to look here or on other websites for that.. I myself will need to do some more research and see if we can use a Sprint Note 4 on T-Mobile and other GSM.

Mr. Q 5 said:
However, if you do still want to unlock GSM use inside the U.S. I think the option is to look here or on other websites for that.. I myself will need to do some more research and see if we can use a Sprint Note 4 on T-Mobile and other GSM.
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Click to collapse
Keep me posted and good luck!
Some guy on youtube, MN MobileGuy, claims to be able to "SIM unlock" this phone for GSM use.
He charges $60 and says his process takes about an hour to remotely unlock the phone.

I dont mean to sound rude, but a fair bit of reading would have probably led you to the fact that there is an app and a developer on here that produced a tool to unlock all sprint galaxy devices over several months ago. The original thread with the tool got edited so you have to go over to his website to get it done. Costs about $35 its pretty straight forward i've used it several times no hastle...
http://www.idoneapps.com/index.php?os=android

cRiMiNaL_Genius said:
I dont mean to sound rude, but a fair bit of reading would have probably led you to the fact that there is an app and a developer on here that produced a tool to unlock all sprint galaxy devices over several months ago. The original thread with the tool got edited so you have to go over to his website to get it done. Costs about $35 its pretty straight forward i've used it several times no hastle...
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Click to collapse
what's the link to the original thread? why'd it get edited/deleted? was it posted as free?
I've seen a thread w/ a guy who posted a bunch of links and files. but i can't trust someone online i don't know.
like i said, there's a guy on youtube that claims to do the same thing. at least his face is on his videos making claims.
i guess i've come across too many that use scenarios like this to compromise other people's property.
if someone i knew, w/ the same phone, had a locked Sprint one day, and then next day they were on an unlocked GSM carrier, then i 'd go see the guy. otherwise, not.
i've seen way too many ppl. take advantage of others.
sucks. but, yeah... life.
---------- Post added at 05:12 AM ---------- Previous post was at 05:08 AM ----------
cRiMiNaL_Genius said:
I dont mean to sound rude, but a fair bit of reading would have probably led you to the fact that there is an app and a developer on here that produced a tool to unlock all sprint galaxy devices over several months ago. The original thread with the tool got edited so you have to go over to his website to get it done. Costs about $35 its pretty straight forward i've used it several times no hastle...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
but thanks for the fyi...

Keyword to google search is idone. Well known fact around here; he's the trusted developer of Galaxy Tools.
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