These are the handsets where a code unlock is still genuinely the right answer: Tecno, itel, Infinix and the carrier-branded devices sold under Safaricom, Vodacom and similar names still prompt for a network code when a foreign SIM goes in. The catch is the model list — the same brand ships dozens of SKUs, and a code service only covers the ones whose IMEI range is in its database.
An NCK derived from the IMEI frees the network lock. The code is typed once at the prompt and is permanent.
These handsets rarely have a server-side alternative, so if the code cannot be generated the device usually stays locked. That makes the model check before ordering the most important step.
The free route fails for one of four reasons, and only the last one needs money: the device is still financed; the account was closed with a balance; the buyer is not the account holder; or the IMEI is reported. Everything else is a paperwork problem the carrier can fix.
These services are cheap — a couple of dollars — and refunded when the model is not covered, which is why checking the list first is worth two minutes.
11 services in this guide. Prices are live; sign in for volume pricing.
Insert a foreign SIM, wait for the prompt, type the NCK once.
Do not order — the code cannot be generated.
Yes.
No, nothing is flashed.
It is not code-locked; check the carrier instead.
Last checked 2026-10-28. Carrier rules are summarised from the operators’ own pages; where a rule has changed since, the operator’s page wins.