["An unlocked phone isn’t tied to a specific carrier—rather, you can use it with any provider. Unlocking your phone allows you to switch carriers without having to buy a new phone.", "When you're under contract with a provider like Verizon or T-Mobile, you typically won't be able to unlock your device if you still have a balance to pay on your device. While the unlocking...", "Check your phone carrier’s contract to see when you can unlock your phone. Then, find your phone’s IMEI code. Visit your carrier’s website for unlocking instructions. Or, call your provider", "SIM locking ties your phone to one carrier, but federal rules give you the right to unlock it — here’s how to do it properly.", "When cell phone users change between compatible wireless service providers, they have the option of \"unlocking\" their phones to use on their new service provider's network, giving", "Unlocking your cell phone lets you switch carriers without buying a new device. Consumer Reports explains how to do it.", "Learn how to unlock your wireless mobile device for use on other carriers (formerly SIM Unlock). See device compatibility and unlock requirement.", "Explore the following topics for answers to some of the most common questions regarding locked devices. What's the difference between a locked and an unlocked device? A locked device only"]