Android Unlock
Unlock Any Android Phone from Its Carrier by IMEI
Android carrier locks work differently from iPhone locks: some are database unlocks that survive a reset, others are code unlocks that must be entered once. This guide explains which is which and how to order correctly.
Last reviewed 2026-10-26
Two unlock models coexist on Android. A database unlock changes the carrier record so any SIM is accepted after the device re-reads its policy; an unlock code is a one-time code derived from the IMEI that must be typed into the device. Buying a code where the carrier only does database unlocks (or the reverse) is the most common Android unlock failure.
Modern Samsung, Pixel and Sony devices are mostly database unlocks. Motorola and some older Huawei models still use codes.
Database unlock vs unlock code
- Database unlock: order by IMEI, wait for completion, restart with the foreign SIM inserted. Nothing to type.
- Unlock code: order by IMEI and model, receive a 8–16 digit code, enter it when the device asks for a network unlock PIN. The code is one-time and reveal-once.
- Tool-based unlock: some MTK and older Qualcomm devices need a diagnostic session or a box/tool credits — these are tool credits, not IMEI services.
Correct order for a locked Android
- 1Check the carrier and lock status by IMEI before paying for anything.
- 2Confirm the device is not blacklisted — GSMA checks apply to Android exactly as they do to iPhone.
- 3Choose the service that matches the phone’s region and carrier group; Android unlock prices are set per carrier, not per brand.
- 4For code-based unlocks, keep the SIM out of the phone until you have the code, then insert the foreign SIM and enter it when prompted.
Note
Samsung devices sold in the US on a carrier contract often need a different channel than the same model sold in Europe. Always include the full model number (e.g. SM-S928U vs SM-S928B).Services used in this guide
These are the exact catalogue entries this guide refers to. Prices and turnaround are live.
Open the catalogueFrequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Will an Android unlock factory reset the phone?
A database unlock does not. Code-based unlocks occasionally trigger a reset prompt on older Samsung models — back up first.
Does a custom ROM remove the carrier lock?
No. The carrier lock is enforced at the modem/EFS level on most devices; flashing a ROM does not change it.
Can I unlock a phone reported stolen?
No legitimate service unlocks stolen devices, and the blacklist entry would keep it offline anyway.
Related guides
Android FRP / account locks
Samsung & Xiaomi FRP / Google Account Removal
Factory Reset Protection is triggered by the previous Google account after a reset. Here is how to identify FRP, MDM and device-admin locks on Samsung, Xiaomi, Realme and generic Android, and which service removes each.
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Stock Firmware Flashing: When a Flash Is the Right Fix
Flashing is not an unlock. Getting that distinction right saves devices: this guide explains when a firmware flash fixes a phone, when it destroys one, and the checks to run first.
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Check iPhone SIM Lock Status by IMEI
A five-minute procedure to find out which carrier an iPhone is locked to, before you buy an unlock service — or before you buy the phone at all.