On Unlocking Cell Phones

1:34 AM |

By Tyree Kathan


Many people who use cell phones have developed an affinity for the mobile device they own. For certain people, this is solely an issue of practicality; they don't see the need to buy a new phone when their current model still works. For others, however, the matter is somewhat more emotional; they like the way their current phone looks and functions, and cannot fathom getting rid of it. Furthermore, all of these people have generally purchased phone covers, chargers, and other accessories for their mobile devices. If they give-up the phone, this money would feel as if it were wasted.

Many phones can be unlocked, but a few cannot. On the majority of phones, your unique information is stored on a small card inside the phone. Because the card can be easily removed or replaced, these phones can be unlocked. Phones without a card, however, store the information on the phone itself. There is now way to unlock these phones.

This is how it works. All cell phones, including your own, are given a serial number when they are manufactured. Then, the serial number is used to attach the phone to a particular provider. Providers normally lock their phones so consumers will be unable to use them on other networks. The locks, however, are easy to crack. Many phones simply require an unlock code in order to be instantly opened for use on any network you desire. These unlock codes can be purchased online at a variety of websites. If your phone cannot be opened with simply an unlock code, you will need to find a company who offers phone unlocking services. These establishments can quickly unlock your phone.

Although it is generally quite cost-effective to pay a company to unlock your phone or purchase the proper code, it is not a free process. You should evaluate a few factors prior to paying for your phone to be unlocked.

1. Consider the price you initially paid for your phone and what its current value is. If you own a high-end phone that you plan to keep for at least a couple of years, unlocking is a cost-effective option. If, though, your present device is something you got for free or extremely cheap, you may have to replace it in the near future. These types of phones may not be worth the cost of unlocking.

2. Have you had problems with your current cell phone? For instance, if your phone has had battery problems since you purchased it, unlocking the device and voiding the warranty may not be a wise choice. Use your warranty to obtain a new phone, then unlock it.

3. Think about whether or not you plan to sell the phone. If so, unlocked phones frequently command higher prices, so unlocking may be a good option for you.




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