Guide
What is an IMEI unlock and how does it work?
An IMEI unlock removes a carrier's network lock by marking the phone's IMEI as unlocked in the carrier or manufacturer database. Nothing is installed on the phone and the warranty is not affected by the process itself.
How it works
Each carrier keeps a record of which IMEIs are locked to its network. An IMEI unlock request asks for that record to be changed. Once approved, the phone accepts SIM cards from other networks.
On iPhone, the change is applied when the phone connects to Wi-Fi or is restored. On many Android phones, the result is an unlock code that you type in when a foreign SIM is inserted.
What you need
The 15-digit IMEI, the phone model and the carrier it is locked to. Some services also need the serial number. The phone does not need to be sent anywhere.
How long it takes
Delivery times depend on the carrier and service. Some complete in minutes, others take several days. Each service on iMasterUnlock shows its expected delivery time before you order.
IMEI unlock versus software unlock
Software unlocks modify the phone itself and can be undone by an update. An IMEI unlock is recorded against the device identity, so it normally survives updates and resets.
Limits to know
An unlock does not remove a blacklist status, clear an iCloud or Google account lock, or make a phone compatible with networks whose frequencies it does not support. Check these separately before ordering.