Half of the failed unlocks in this business start with the wrong idea of what the device is. A TAC lookup turns the first eight digits into a model; a model check turns an IMEI into colour and capacity; an EID check confirms eSIM hardware; an IMEI2 conversion gives you the second slot. Each is a one-off, costs cents, and prevents ordering the wrong tier.
The TAC is the first eight digits of the IMEI and identifies the model and its launch window. It does not tell you the device's state — for that you need warranty, lock and blacklist checks.
IMEI2 is the identifier of the second SIM slot. Some services accept either; several require IMEI1 specifically.
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 are cheap identity checks rather than unlocks, and their value is downstream: they are what stop you buying a $95 tier for a phone that turns out to be a different model, or a different carrier's device entirely.
| Service | Price | Covers |
|---|---|---|
| Model+Announced Date Check | $0.01 | device check |
| CPU, Network Check | $0.04 | device check |
| Xiaomi | Redmi | POCO Warranty+Model+Acccount Check | $0.07 | Xiaomi |
| ECord - No Refund | $1.70 | device check |
4 services in this guide. Prices are live; sign in for volume pricing.
The first eight digits of an IMEI — it identifies the model and launch window.
Yes, on the /tac tool.
Use the IMEI2 conversion service.
It confirms the eSIM hardware and returns the EID.
Tiers are priced and scoped by model generation.
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.