To unlock your iPhone must follow these steps.
Check Your iPhone’s Compatibility
Not all iPhones can be unlocked. The eligibility depends on these factors:
iPhone model – iPhone 5 or newer models can usually be unlocked. Older models may not work.
Software version – The iPhone must run iOS 8.1.1 or later. Older iOS versions often can’t be unlocked.
Carrier and Contract Status – If the iPhone is currently under contract with a carrier, it typically can’t be unlocked until the contract expires. Out-of-contract iPhones can be unlocked.
To check your model, software, and carrier status go to Settings -> General -> About. Confirm the details before proceeding or contact your carrier for clarification.
Request Unlock from Your Carrier
The next step is to request an iPhone carrier to unlock your screen. There is usually a fee for this unless your contract recently expired. Carriers have legal unlocking obligations so they should comply. If your carrier denies an unlock request, be persistent and reiterate it’s your legal right to unlock after fulfilling contract terms. File an FCC complaint if issues continue. Their policies are set up to allow unlocks in most scenarios. This is the easiest iPhone unlock method.
Third-Party Unlocking Service
Third-party phone unlocking services are also useful if a carrier doesn’t work. Companies like DoctorSIM and Express Unlocks can remotely unlock many iPhone models. The advantage of these services is you don’t have to jailbreak or modify the iPhone software. The unlock applies network-wide.
Software Unlock Service with Jailbreaking
Some unlocking services use specialized software to unlock iPhones by exploiting software vulnerabilities. This method works on virtually all iPhone models but involves jailbreaking – modifying the iPhone’s software restrictions. After you jailbreak, the unlocking software gets full access to iPhone system files and can perform a network-wide unlock.
The jailbreak method doesn’t work on the latest iOS versions and there’s a small risk of something going wrong. Weigh the pros and cons before jailbreaking. Consider the software unlock as a last resort.
Unlock with an ICCID Code
Each SIM card has an ICCID code – an exclusive identification number. Some unlocking services claim they can generate an ICCID code to unlock specific iPhone models and firmware versions without jailbreaking. This is an emerging method worth considering.
Confirm full compatibility before paying as ICCID unlocks are still hit-or-miss. If successful though, it’s a simple and safe iPhone unlock solution.
Unlock iPhone Without a Passcode or Face ID
Remove the Screen Lock Entirely If you own the iPhone or know the Apple ID credentials of the owner, you can remove the passcode lock entirely by resetting the device. Just connect it to a computer, put the iPhone in recovery mode, then restore it through iTunes. This will wipe the device and allow unfettered access with no passcode or biometric authentication afterward.
Use Screen Lock Bypass Tools There are mobile unlocking tool kits and unlocking companies that can bypass the lock screen of several iPhone models and iOS versions through exploits and advanced techniques. The reliability varies, and it depends on having sufficient technical skills. Generally, older iPhones are much easier to crack than newer ones.
Access Extra Menus With Siri You can use Siri to open certain iPhone menus, apps, or features without entering the passcode first by voice commands. Capabilities are limited for security reasons, but some system apps and settings are accessible. Useful if you just need to toggle something quickly and don’t know or can’t enter the screen lock passcode.
Remove the SIM Card to Call Emergency Services On an iPhone with cellular connectivity, removing the physical SIM card from the SIM card tray will allow dialing emergency service numbers from the emergency call screen without needing the screen lock passcode.
Unlock iPhone If Face ID Fails
You can always unlock your iPhone reliably even when Face ID fails by using the backup passcode, Apple Watch, adjusting Face ID sensitivity settings, or adding an alternate appearance. To make Face ID more flexible, set up an “Alternate Appearance” by wearing glasses, hats, etc. that alter your look. Scan your face again with the new appearance so Face ID can store the additional data points.
In Conclusion
The best approach depends on your specific iPhone model, network status, current carrier policies, and iOS version. Ideally, try requesting an unlock from your carrier first before trying independent unlocking companies. Carefully research the service before handing over any money and confirm the policy is clear on getting refunds if the iPhone isn’t unlocked as promised.
FAQs
Does unlocking void my iPhone warranty?
No, getting your iPhone unlocked does not void the standard Apple hardware warranty. However, any damage or issues caused directly by the unlocking process may not be covered.
Can all iPhones be unlocked?
In general, iPhone models newer than the iPhone 5 running at least iOS 8.1.1 can be unlocked reliably. Very old iPhone models often cannot be unlocked even by services that claim otherwise. Always double-check the model and OS compatibility before paying an unlock company.
How can I re-lock my iPhone?
You cannot re-lock an iPhone once unlocked through an official carrier or most third-party unlocking methods. In rare cases, reverting the iPhone firmware to a locked version may re-enable the carrier lock status. But this is complex and not always possible.
How much does it cost to unlock an iPhone?
Carrier unlocking fees range from $50 or less, and third-party unlock services range from $15 to $100+ depending on the iPhone model and unlock method used. Shop around for the best deal.
