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How to Unlock All iPhones [April 2021]

Unlocking an iPhone allows you to use it on other carrier networks, both domestically and internationally. There are a few different methods to unlock an iPhone depending on your specific situation.

Unlocking Through Your Carrier

The recommended way to unlock an iPhone is through your carrier. Here’s how it works:

  • Contact your carrier’s customer support and request for them to unlock your iPhone. Make sure to have your account information ready.
  • The carrier will process the request and send you confirmation generally within 1-3 business days when the unlock has been completed.
  • Once confirmed, you can insert a new carrier’s SIM card and your iPhone will now work on other GSM networks. This unlocking process does not void your warranty.

Note: Your iPhone must be fully paid off and out of any service contract before carriers will unlock it. Upgrades also re-lock the phone.

Unlocking with Third-Party Services

If your carrier is unable or unwilling to unlock your iPhone, you can use third-party unlocking services that work directly with Apple’s databases and servers to whitelist your device’s IMEI.

Here is the process when using these services:

  • Find your iPhone’s IMEI number by dialing *#06# or going into Settings > General > About.
  • Enter the IMEI number on the unlocking service’s website along with details like iPhone model and original carrier.
  • Complete payment for the unlock service. Prices range from $15 to $50 typically.
  • You will receive step-by-step instructions to complete the iPhone unlocking process.
  • The unlocking process is done remotely and takes between 10 minutes to 24 hours in most cases. Your iPhone can stay with you the whole time and never loses service.

Popular and reputable third-party iPhone unlocking services include The Unlockr, Cellunlocker, and DoctorSIM.

Unlocking Through Jailbreaking

You can unlock your iPhone through jailbreaking if you have an older model running iOS 14 or earlier. However, jailbreaking is complex, voids your warranty, and poses security risks.

The process involves:

  • Jailbreaking your iPhone through a tool like checkra1n or unc0ver.
  • Installing a jailbreak tweak or app like iUnlock to bypass the carrier lock and SIM restrictions.
  • Inserting a new carrier’s SIM card to finish the software-based unlocking process.

Note: Jailbreaking is not recommended for most people and should be done carefully. Newer iPhones and iOS 15+ can’t be jailbroken currently.

Unlocking iCloud Activation Lock

If you get a used or second-hand iPhone that has the previous owner’s Apple ID still activated, you’ll need to remove iCloud Activation Lock before using it.

To unlock it:

  • Request the original owner to turn off Find My iPhone for that device. This disables the activation lock.
  • If original owner is unavailable, you must show valid proof of purchase/ownership documents to Apple Support and have the device officially unlocked.
  • Third-party iCloud unlocking services also claim ability to get past Activation Lock but are often illegal and risky.

Note: Buying used iPhones with Find My still enabled is not advisable due to high fraud risk. Confirm it is disabled beforehand.

Factory Unlocking Through iTunes

You can factory unlock your iPhone by connecting it to iTunes and restoring it.

Here are the steps:

  • Backup your iPhone data through iTunes or iCloud. Restoring will wipe data.
  • Turn off Find My iPhone under Settings if enabled. Also sign out of iCloud and iTunes.
  • Connect the iPhone to your computer and open iTunes.
  • While holding the Side button, click Restore. This will install the latest iOS firmware.
  • Set up the iPhone again from scratch without signing into iCloud or iTunes.
  • The iPhone will now allow any network’s SIM without activation locks or carrier barring.

This method works as a last resort but is time-consuming. You also lose all data and custom settings.

Conclusion

  • Contacting your carrier to request an official iPhone unlock is always the best method. It’s free, legal, and keeps your warranty intact.
  • Alternatively, use IMEI-based third party unlocking services. They directly work with Apple to whitelist your device.
  • Avoid illegal software hacks or jailbreaking to unlock. These pose security threats and void warranties.
  • Factory resetting through iTunes erases all contents but lets you unlock the iPhone without restrictions.

Unlocking your iPhone gives you more freedom and choices on cellular providers. Just pick the method that best fits your situation. Most carriers and third parties can unlock devices remotely in April 2021 without much hassle.

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