How to Unlock SIM Card on Android with or Without PUK Code

A locked SIM means that your smartphone is locked to a specific network carrier. There are a variety of factors that can cause a SIM to be locked, from entering the wrong PIN code too many times to a carrier's security measures. Anyway, it is frustrating if you cannot switch network carriers as you wish. This guide focuses on how to unlock a SIM card on an Android phone or tablet so that you can use any carrier.

• Part 1: How to Get Android SIM Unlock by Carrier
• Part 2: How to Unlock SIM on Android
• Part 3: 3 Reputable Android SIM Unlock Services
• Part 4: FAQs of Android SIM Unlock

Part 1: How to Get Android SIM Unlock by Carrier

Since 2015, US phone owners can request networks unlock Android SIM cards. There is a similar system in the European Union. If you bought a smartphone on contract, you have to pay a fee before the initial two-year deal is up. If you bought a phone outright from a network, it will be locked for 12 months.

Before contacting your carrier, you need to find the IMEI number. Run your Phone app, and enter *#06# in the dialer. Then you will get a message of the IMEI information. Or go to the Settings app, tap About phone, and find the IMEI number.

Next, contact your network carrier by phone, on the website, or using email to request universal SIM unlock. Tell the supporter your IMEI number, and you will get a code to unlock your Android Phone to use any SIM card. Bear in mind that is the standard procedure, but the full process may differ across carriers.

Part 2: How to Unlock SIM on Android

A PIN code is used to protect a SIM card against unauthorized access. Some carriers use standard PIN codes, like 1234 or 0000, while others produce unique PIN codes for each card. Each time you start your phone, you have to enter the PIN code to activate the SIM card. If you input the PIN code incorrectly three times in a row, your SIM card will be locked. Then you can unlock the SIM card with the PUK code on your Android phone.

Step 1 When you get the message that the SIM is locked, tap OK. Then you will be prompted to enter the PUK code.

Step 2 Find the PUK code on the back of your SIM card or the card packaging. It is usually an 8-digit code. Sometimes, it gets obscured and you need to uncover it.

Step 3 Tap Unlock or a relative option. Then your phone will bypass the current PIN code and ask you to set a new one.

Part 3: 3 Reputable Android SIM Unlock Services

Top 1: DoctorSIM

The last solution is finding an Android SIM unlock service to get the job done. DoctorSIM, for example, is such an online service. The prices range from $36 for Verizon up to $350 for AT&T and T-Mobile.

Top 2: ExpressUnlocks

ExpressUnlocks has been in business for over 15 years. It helps people remotely remove the network provider restrictions before the expiration of the contract. It costs $91 to unlock a SIM card.

Top 3: IMEInow

IMEInow is an affordable Android SIM unlocker. You can access the website, and input your carrier and IMEI number. When you request unlock, you will be asked to pay $25. After payment, your SIM card will be unlocked in 6 hours.

Bonus Tip: Unlock Your Android Phone with Ease

If you forget your Android phone’s password or are locked by the Google FRP lock, Apeaksoft Android Unlocker is your best solution!

Here are the steps to unlock your Android phone:

Step 1Download Apeaksoft Android Unlocker by clicking the link above. Connect your device and choose the Remove Screen Password option on the main interface.

Step 2Check your phone models and click the Remove Now option. Wait for the removal to finish.