Did you buy your phone from a carrier like AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile? It might be "locked" to that network, meaning it won't accept eSIMs from other providers like Simcardo. Good news: checking is easy and unlocking is usually free.
What Does "Locked" Mean?
When a phone is carrier-locked, it's programmed to only work with SIM cards from that specific carrier. This practice was common when carriers subsidized phone prices – locking ensured customers stayed with them.
An unlocked phone can use SIM cards (including eSIMs) from any carrier worldwide. That's exactly what you need for Simcardo to work.
Checking on iPhone
Apple made this very simple:
- Open Settings
- Tap General
- Tap About
- Scroll down to Carrier Lock
If it says "No SIM restrictions" – your iPhone is unlocked and ready for Simcardo.
If it says "SIM locked" or shows a carrier name – your phone is locked. See the "How to Unlock" section below.
Checking on Samsung Galaxy
Samsung doesn't have a built-in lock status check, but here are reliable methods:
Method 1: Try Another SIM
The most reliable test. Borrow a SIM from someone with a different carrier, insert it, and see if the phone accepts it. If it works and shows signal, your phone is unlocked.
Method 2: Look for Unlock App
Some Samsung phones have a pre-installed unlock app. Look for "Device Unlock" or similar in your app list.
Method 3: Call Your Carrier
Contact customer service and ask: "Is my phone unlocked?" They can verify instantly from your account.
Checking on Google Pixel
- Go to Settings
- Tap About phone
- Look for SIM status
- Check if there's any mention of lock
Alternatively, use the SIM swap method described above.
Checking on Other Android Phones
For Xiaomi, OnePlus, Oppo, Huawei, and others:
- Settings → About phone → Status – Look for SIM lock info
- Try a SIM from another carrier – Still the most reliable method
- IMEI check – Use your phone's IMEI number on free online services
How to Unlock Your Phone
If your phone is locked, don't worry. Unlocking is usually free and straightforward:
Contact Your Carrier
Most carriers will unlock your phone for free if:
- The phone is fully paid off (no remaining balance)
- Your account is in good standing
- You've had service for a minimum period (usually 60-90 days)
US Carrier Policies
- AT&T: Free after 60 days of service, phone must be paid off
- Verizon: Phones automatically unlock 60 days after purchase
- T-Mobile: Free after device is paid off and 40 days of service
- Sprint (T-Mobile): Free after 50 days of service
UK Carrier Policies
- EE: Free unlocking for customers
- Vodafone: Free after contract obligations met
- O2: Free unlocking
- Three: Phones sold unlocked
Phones That Are Almost Always Unlocked
- Phones purchased directly from Apple Store
- Google Pixel phones from Google Store
- Samsung phones from Samsung.com (unlocked version)
- Any phone labeled "SIM-free" or "unlocked"
- Most phones purchased in the EU (EU regulations favor unlocked devices)
- Phones from electronics retailers like Best Buy (unlocked models)
Still Not Sure?
If you're uncertain about your phone's unlock status, contact our support team. We'll help you figure it out before you purchase an eSIM.
Once you confirm your phone is unlocked, you're ready to:
- Verify eSIM compatibility for your specific model
- Browse travel eSIMs for your destination
- Learn how Simcardo works
Ready to go? Get an eSIM for over 290 destinations.