To check whether your iPhone is unlocked, open Settings > General > About and find Carrier Lock: "No SIM restrictions" means it is unlocked. Any other message means the phone is locked to a carrier. Unlocked iPhones earn the highest offers because they work on any network.
What do the Carrier Lock messages mean?
| Message | Meaning |
|---|---|
| No SIM restrictions | Unlocked |
| SIM locked | Locked to a carrier |
| Carrier name shown | Usually locked to that carrier |
Does a locked iPhone sell for less?
Slightly less, because buyers on other networks cannot use it. You can still sell it; see can you sell a carrier-locked iPhone and the sell locked iPhone page.
How do I get my iPhone unlocked?
- Pay off any device balance.
- Meet your carrier's unlock rules, such as a minimum time on the account.
- Request the unlock online or by phone.
- Restart the phone and check Carrier Lock again.
Is carrier lock the same as iCloud lock?
No. Carrier lock limits which networks the phone works on. iCloud Activation Lock ties it to an Apple Account and must be removed before any sale; see selling an iCloud-locked iPhone.
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