iPhone Unlock
Unlock NTT Docomo, SoftBank, au / KDDI and UQ iPhones
Japanese devices are heavily subsidised and heavily flagged. Docomo, SoftBank, au/KDDI and UQ each have their own listings, and Japanese blacklist records are strict.
Last reviewed 2026-10-26
Japan is the largest source of used iPhones in Asia, and Japanese devices are sold at a discount for two reasons: they are often SIM-locked well past their contract, and Japan has its own blacklist system on top of GSMA.
Each of the three major carriers has separate unlock listings, and SoftBank's Y!mobile sub-brand has its own behaviour.
Carrier coverage
- NTT Docomo: unlock listing for iPhone, Samsung, Sony and generic devices; a separate listing exists for blacklisted Docomo devices.
- SoftBank and Y!mobile: a combined listing covering the current iPhone generations.
- au / KDDI and UQ Mobile: a separate listing because au records are distinct.
- Replacement units: a dedicated listing, because warranty replacements carry a different record.
The Japanese blacklist system
Japanese carriers maintain a domestic blacklist that applies across all three networks. A device flagged there will not work on any Japanese network even if it is unlocked, and it may still work abroad.
That is why the check should answer two questions: is it SIM-locked, and is it flagged?
Note
A flagged Japanese device is not necessarily useless overseas — many non-Japanese networks do not query the Japanese domestic list. Decide based on where the phone will be used.Ordering
- 1SIM lock check to confirm the carrier.
- 2Run a Japan-specific status check for Docomo / au / SoftBank blacklist state.
- 3Choose the listing that matches the carrier and the generation.
- 4For replacement units, use the replacement listing rather than the standard one.
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
Why do Japanese iPhones show a camera shutter sound?
Japanese regulation requires it. It is a regional firmware behaviour and is not removed by a carrier unlock.
Can a Japanese device be used abroad after unlock?
Yes for most models, subject to the band support of that specific model number.
What is a replacement Japanese iPhone?
A warranty replacement unit where the record references the original device. These need the replacement-specific listing.
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