Cell Phone unlocking

[cyberdad]

Would some one explain to me the details of unlocking a cell phone. I can buy a new cell phone from my current provider (the contract ran out long ago), however I have to buy one of theirs that has a SIM lock. My understanding is that cellular phone unlocking is now legal. I can buy the same phone elsewhere a lot cheaper than from the provider. I would appreciate some info from someone who has been down this road.

 

[Legendary]

If your contract has run out, generally speaking a cell company will give you a discounted phone in order to get you to sign another contract. This assumes you want to stay with your current provider. Even if you don't, other companies will give you discounted phones too.

 

[mercanucaribe]

Cell phone locking may be legal, but that doesn't mean they'll unlock it for you.

 

[effowe]

Check out howardforums for your phone and unlocking information. Google will help too.

 

[2Xtreme21]

Call your service provider and say you're going overseas for an extended period of time and are buying a temporary SIM card while over there. I had to do it for my Cingular phone and they said the unlock code is being sent to me ASAP.