Hello! I've been trying to figure out how to sim unlock my phones for quite a while now. I've asked everywhere, even unlocking sites how they get these codes (to no avail of course) and I never tried asking here for some reason. I want to learn how it's done, and how I can do it myself. My Dad jumps from phone to phone and always needs to get them unlocked. I don't want to pay for them anymore, I'd rather do them myself!
I just found this thread: [TUTORIAL] Unlock Samsung [GT-S5570 / i5500 / Galaxy Ace] which will help me unlock my aunt's phone which is nice I guess, but it looks to be a Samsung only method. Am I able to use a similar method with a phone that has an EFS folder? Is it in the nv_data file? How do unlocking websites retrieve the unlock code with just the model, network and imei? Do they simply ask the carrier?
I'd love for any sort of help! Just a guiding light, a path to follow, anything! Please and thank you!
Some phones can be unlocked using software exploits however most require a unlock code that is generated based on the imei as far as I know you can not generate these codes yourself
The short answer is that there are very few ways to get free unlock codes for phones these days. Samsung sometimes leaves system directories wide open which allows for a few tweaks to get the phone unlocked, but most other manufacturers have things locked down pretty tight.
The databases from SIM unlock services are filled with unlock codes which they purchase from manufacturers or component makers.
They have a app now that does it on the market but for how long who knows. U have to b rooted for it to work
unlock codes
Do you know what the name of that app is?
Related
Hi everyone
i am brand new to android and just my self a brand new arc from rogers.
what should i do with?
i am one of those guys who really cant sit straight with the default ... lol
thanks
the all in one namaste guide was my first good read...
cryogenix said:
the all in one namaste guide was my first good read...
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Click to collapse
thanks alot
do you by chance have a link to it?
and also, i need to unlock it so i can use it on a different carrier
thanks
its stickied at this section. the top thread.
easiest and cheapest way to unlock is to use omnius but this will also unlock your bootloader but it can always be locked again.
here is link to the guide about arc
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1133650
Not much to do except themeing and rooting at the moment for a stable phone.
My suggestion is to just use it as it is because the battery life is awesome with stock ROM. I had timescape and other junk uninstalled.
There is not as much development going on for arc as for the x10 at the moment.
Sent from my LT15i using XDA App
If u are willing then check this out-
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1102523
its still in development but .....as u said
i am one of those guys who really cant sit straight with the default ... lol
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Click to collapse
If you can unlock the bootloader then you should look at installed doomlords kernel... allows you to overclock the CPU.. amongst other things!
thanks everyone for your help
i really appreciate it
i followed the namaste tutorial and now have a rooted arc with 3.0.A.2.181 generic firmware
my next question and probably most important one
how do i unlock the phone to use on a different carrier?
when i insert my sim from other carrier it asks for SIM unlock code? do i have to call them to get this?
thanks again
No mate, you must buy an unlock code from a trusted website.
I highly doubt the carriers will give you an unlock code.
any recommendations for a site to get the unlock code?
Not sure why you bought a brand new locked phone to a carrier you don't use? How strange. Anyway, your carrier should sell you an unlock code. In the UK this is usually GBP15.
I would also avoid fiddling too much with custom firmware - what little exists is very early in development and rather rough. The stock SE firmware is actually very good.
The most I would do if you want to debrand is to flash a generic stock SE ROM and then actually use your phone and enjoy it.
thanks alot
i did flash it with generic rom. so thats good to go
i still dont know why i rooted it because i dont see a use for it so far... will have to wait and see
any experience with Cellunlocker.net?
Yes - I used them. I got the code in the end but it took ages - maybe it will be different now. It was expensive though. Doesn't Omnius-Server unlock phones and you get the bootloader unlocked at the same time - its way cheaper than cellunlocker too.
for unlocking a sim-locked arc in the most cost efficient way and helping the community, contact Blagus for his service.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/member.php?u=2645841
jtdc said:
for unlocking a sim-locked arc in the most cost efficient way and helping the community, contact Blagus for his service.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/member.php?u=2645841
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eset is blocking this guys website. its harmful
whats the different between simunlock and bootloader unlock?
i want to be able to use it on a different network? which one do i need?
thanks
> eset is blocking this guys website. its harmful
whats the different between simunlock and bootloader unlock?
i want to be able to use it on a different network? which one do i need?
not sure why its blocked but just contact him directly here in xda-forums.
"sim unlock" allows your phone to use any networks and not just where your phone was subsidized from. means can use any sim card and network worldwide. of course if you will just stick to your current provider and not intend to go to other country and use the sims there, maybe you will not need sim unlock. also, a sim unlocked phone has more value in terms of resale.
"bootloader unlock" allows your phone to be programmed to use other software or system which is either a modified form of software from Sony Ericssson (often with enhancement) or even a whole new system for the phone which makes it look and work differently from the original. it is for more technically expert users.
For me, i am ok with Sony Ericsson stock, but I do appreciate the bootloader unlock as it allows me to flash doomlord's kernel makes downclock phone max speed possible to save battery life. it also gives root access already which offers full control of the programs running in the phone.
For your requirement, sim unlock is enough. But I believe Blagus solution when done, does already a sim unlock AND enables the phone to be bootloader unlocked. Note that it just "enables unlocking", its still choice to have it remained in locked state. Because sim locked phones have locked bootloaders and cannot be unlocked using the Sony Ericsson publicly provided procedures.
If I get the Xperia Play sim unlocked, Can I then unlock the bootloader?
if you unlock your bootloader via jinx or alejandrissimo it will unlock your sim at the same time... i used alejandrissimo, very professional and was unlocked in minutes but it is the paid way.
unlocking your sim will not change anything at all to do with your bootloader im afraid, if your sim locked the paid way is the only way - $24 well worth it!!
Looks like thats the way im going to have to go. On the plus side, I get paid tuesday. =)
But yeah, I was just wondering cause I know people were like you cant unlock the bootloader if its a sim locked phone and all this other stuff and I was thinking, What if I called up ATT and got them to unlock the IMEI?
But if that wont change anything, I guess the paid method is how im going to have to go about doing this.
Thanks
If you get it sim unlocked your bootloader will then be allowed to be unlocked.
Sent from my R800i using Tapatalk
I believe the bootloader is specific Per-Device.
You can check if you can in your settings, excuse my newbieness,
Settings > Root Status (or something to this effect)
If your bootloader can be unlocked it'll be listed there.
I dont think the status of your SIM (locked or unlocked) affects the bootloader.
DazzaChazza said:
If you get it sim unlocked your bootloader will then be allowed to be unlocked.
Sent from my R800i using Tapatalk
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Well... Then I guess Im just gonna call up ATT and get the unlock code. Unlock the phone's sim lock and see if I can, Worse comes to worse, I cant. I still have the paid method available and I havent paid any money what so ever.
SirRudolph said:
I believe the bootloader is specific Per-Device.
You can check if you can in your settings, excuse my newbieness,
Settings > Root Status (or something to this effect)
If your bootloader can be unlocked it'll be listed there.
I dont think the status of your SIM (locked or unlocked) affects the bootloader.
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Click to collapse
Ive looked there and it doesnt show. Which is what brought my hopes down in the first place but everywhere I looked... it said I cant because the device is simlocked. Which is why i wanna know if getting the sim lock removed would then allow me to access and unlock the Bootloader via FastBoot.
I have never owned a phone that has stopped me from rooting and installing custom roms to it. This is kinda a dissapointment but on the plus side, its a good phone.
Hard to get an unlock code from AT&T Or so I heard, but if you do, if you can tell me what you said, that'd be great.
If you do get an unlock code from them, Cant hurt to try to unlock the bootloader after that.
SirRudolph said:
Hard to get an unlock code from AT&T Or so I heard, but if you do, if you can tell me what you said, that'd be great.
If you do get an unlock code from them, Cant hurt to try to unlock the bootloader after that.
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Im a "Valued" member of ATT. Had them for years. So, They dont question me. As long as youve had the phone on your account for 90 days, they dont bother you if you ask for a unlock code.
I will most likely do this tomorrow and will post the outcome. because like I said, if it just takes unlocking the sim card from ATT to be able to unlock the bootloader... id rather do that.
Im not against paying 24$ to have it done.. but why not try what I can for free first?
Hi everyone, I'm completely new to smartphones, just bought an Xperia Play 800i. I have been keenly reading the forums, going through everything I need to know.
My android version is 2.3.4 and build number is 4.0.2.A.0.42. Phone is network locked.
If you don't mind letting me know, the best way to start is by unlocking the SIM right? Then unlock the bootloader,then custom kernel and flashing?
Your advise would be appreciated.
AFAIK regular SIM unlocking doesn't let you unlock your bootloader.
I've read of people who pay a little or get sim unlock from other methods which isn't enough for the bootloader.
It's just that Alejandrissimo's method unlocks both sim & allows for bootloader (it's a 2 for 1 method).
Hope it helps, and if AT&T gives you a free sim unlock code then give it a shot, but it's said it doesn't work that way.
I'm trying Alejandrissimo's method and I'm lost. Have PM'd him and waiting for his reply. I am not on the AT&T network.
Jhoopes517 said:
Im a "Valued" member of ATT. Had them for years. So, They dont question me. As long as youve had the phone on your account for 90 days, they dont bother you if you ask for a unlock code.
I will most likely do this tomorrow and will post the outcome. because like I said, if it just takes unlocking the sim card from ATT to be able to unlock the bootloader... id rather do that.
Im not against paying 24$ to have it done.. but why not try what I can for free first?
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Thought that was only T-Mobile. Sadly I dont even have an account with them, Just bought the phone from ebay. So im probably gonna have to spend more to get the thing sim-unlocked.
Oh, look what I found on AT&T's website.
Requirements for monthly wireless plans:
Your wireless service has been active for 90 days or longer
Your account is current and in good standing
Your phone is not sold exclusively by AT&T
Your phone's unlock code is available from the manufacturer
Your phone does not have a long-term exclusive service agreement, or the contract time period has expired
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I'm stuck at the USB over Network stage, keeps saying server unreachable when I select MY PC. What am I doing wrong? So frustrated!
You can get your Xperia unlocked in less than 10 minutes by Alejandrissimo. When he SIM unlocks your Xperia he will also automatically unlock bootloader.
You can visit his website here.
LFSPovo said:
You can get your Xperia unlocked in less than 10 minutes by Alejandrissimo. When he SIM unlocks your Xperia he will also automatically unlock bootloader.
You can visit his website here.
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I visited his website, downloaded the zip file, and then I'm stuck not knowing what to do next.
So, you are saying I have to wait for him to respond to my request? So, I guess the USB over Network program will be used by him, to remote unlock my Xperia? I'm cool with that because I want to pay for the service.
Hi all. I've checked everywhere to the best of my ability on these forums and elsewhere and can't find any way to unlocked the network lock on my Ace Plus gt-s7500. all the methods for other samsungs are ineffective, is this phone immune to unlocking?
Anyone have an update to this please?
Thanks .
I would like to know if anyone has an answer to this too. I have rooted the phone, installed busy box 1.20 in order to try and use the BML15 exploits (listed for other samsung phones) but none of them work with this phone. Unlocking firms want £20-50 in the UK
Hi guys, theres just a network for normally samsung galaxy ace.
(Watch here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1204705 )
But i found a website where you can unlock your mobile Galaxy Ace Plus. I hope taht its the right one.
http://www.howardforums.com/showthr...om-T-Mobile-AT-amp-T-Vodafone-Rogers-Bell-etc
I've just bought a s7500 from ebay and found out it's locked to Virgin.
Could someone please help us find a way to unlock this phone? I can't find anything on google either.
It's been out for months, why is it that nobody has found a way to unlock it?
First step would be to get the Unlock Code for your Samsung Cell Phone
We can provide you the unlock code.
Click/Copy link to get it: Samsung Galaxy Ace Plus S7500 Unlock Code
unlockphonenetwork.com (Put link in your adress)
How to enter the Unlock Code?
1. Switch ON your phone with a not Accepted SIM Card,
2. Phone will ask for "Network Password"
3. You can now enter the Unlock Code we send to you.
4. Your Samsung is now unlocked!
OR (if phone show "Insert Correct SIM Card")
1. Switch ON your phone with a not Accepted SIM Card,
2. Compose : #0111*CODE#
Your site doesn't even offer unlock codes for my carrier. It's on Virgin Mobile.
Anyway, I think it's pretty obvious that we're not looking to spend £40 on something that should be free. This is essentially a forum for phone hacking...
I'm only interested in finding a way to unlock the phone that is completely free.
sc0ut0 said:
Hi all. I've checked everywhere to the best of my ability on these forums and elsewhere and can't find any way to unlocked the network lock on my Ace Plus gt-s7500. all the methods for other samsungs are ineffective, is this phone immune to unlocking?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
check this thread or look here
phone needs root
It's little expensive to pay 35$ to unlock a phone maybe 20 $ I'm waiting for an offer
Just checked out those links and they don't mention the gt-s7500.
I've done some research, and it does not appear to be possible to use these pre-existing tools to unlock an s7500
hedgehog90 said:
Just checked out those links and they don't mention the gt-s7500.
I've done some research, and it does not appear to be possible to use these pre-existing tools to unlock an s7500
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you have to check it !
do not expect a tool made only for your phone
I give an example: I made a custom rom for Samsung Omnia using a tool made for HTC phones
do backup before anything if you have problems and want to revert to stock use this thread
also I understand your frustration
hedgehog90 said:
Just checked out those links and they don't mention the gt-s7500.
I've done some research, and it does not appear to be possible to use these pre-existing tools to unlock an s7500
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Click to collapse
No he is right, the ones made for the S, S2 original Ace and Vibrant do not work. There are also mentions of extracting and modifying the efs folder in a hex editor or the .bl5 partition but these do not yield any data. I have emailed xda developer chainfire but i doubt he will be able to help as he does not have one of these devices. For now we are stuck
****
Would there be a way to do a batch search in hex for 8 digit strings that resemble an unlock code?
If I knew my unlock code, and then searched those root files for that exact string, maybe we'd know how to unlock s7500s?
Or is that over simplifying it?
Any updates on chainfire?
I'm amazed there is nobody out there who has worked this out yet...
Would really appreciate it if someone could help us out... It's quite annoying having a s7500 but not being able to use it as a phone.... Sort of pointless actually.
Anyone? Have tried loads of methoods - none didnt work'd
I've been looking for a way to unlock GT-S7500 but without success. Seems that Samsung Tool 12.6 and newer by z3x-team is able to unlock it but they are charging for it. In case anyone has it and is willing to share, will be much appreciated
dcabro said:
I've been looking for a way to unlock GT-S7500 but without success. Seems that Samsung Tool 12.6 and newer by z3x-team is able to unlock it but they are charging for it. In case anyone has it and is willing to share, will be much appreciated
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plenty of people do it but like you said they all charge. At the min there is no way to unlock it for free. Nothing works. Read this thread we have tried what you have and more
Sent from my GT-I9100 using xda premium
I used unlocksamsungonline [dot] nl and bought a code for 15E. It solved the problem in few seconds. Better this way than waiting for free codes and not using a phone I paid for.
Still Noone?
Heeeey
I just received a S7500 (Ace Plus) from my friend and tried to unlock it using the BML5 method and some others i found in this Forum and im a bit frustrated that none of them worked... :'(
Is nobody out there that could share a hint (Link, Tutorial, Video, Screenshot) that could help people unlocking this Model??
I guess im still not the only one out there that has a locked Ace + and is not very happy about it.
So PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE Help us!
Greetings!
How to root the phone? Please help i want to upgrade it to 4.1
Sent from my GT-S7500 using xda app-developers app
what is simlock from a technical point of view?
i know it's purely software, but where? if i flash a custom rom, is the lock gone? or is it in built deeper in the system, for example the bootloader? is it somehow the carrier, who can identify the phone? there is a specific code involved, i think. i'm bloody confused. :silly:
what do these (dubious) websites do?
i'm sorry for my lack of patience, but i didn't immediately find an answer using forum search and google. usually people only want to know what they have to do, not what they have to do.
i know there are people on this forum knowing the answer. earn yourselves a thanks!
BigFatTony said:
what is simlock from a technical point of view?
i know it's purely software, but where? if i flash a custom rom, is the lock gone? or is it in built deeper in the system, for example the bootloader? is it somehow the carrier, who can identify the phone? there is a specific code involved, i think. i'm bloody confused. :silly:
what do these (dubious) websites do?
i'm sorry for my lack of patience, but i didn't immediately find an answer using forum search and google. usually people only want to know what they have to do, not what they have to do.
i know there are people on this forum knowing the answer. earn yourselves a thanks!
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Click to collapse
Sim lock is a network specific lock that carriers place on the phone to prevent you from using another carriers sim card in your device. the lock is unique to a carrier so only their network will work.
flashing custom roms will not remove the simlock. it is built deeper in the system, not even the bootloader, in the sensation the unlock code was written in the nand memory and we were able to find it in some devices
What these dubious unlocking websites do is provide you with an unlocking code, a sim locked device will have a specific 8 digit code, by entering that code, you authorize the device to allow sim cards from other networks to work on your phone.
Not sure where the websites get there codes from but usually they are correct and unique.
Can I get a procedure for unlocking this phone for free. Cannot downgrade the s/w as it will brick the phone definitely. Don't want to root it. Need network unlock key.
Thanks in advance.
You could contact A&T and request a free unlock code. If they won't give it, you'll have to buy a code.
Don't trust payment sites. Many free services may be available. OEM won't give code it appears. Need just network lock key.
Can someone help please ?
I use ebay all the time to buy unlock codes. I don't trust free sites and I do not use online unlockers.
I747M with 4.3 Android is unlockable via ServiceMenu, perso SHA off, and NV rebuild/restore; procedure is described elsewhere on the forum. I successfully unlocked one and tested it -- works.
Cheers