How to Check if Your Phone is Unlocked (iPhone, Samsung & Pixel)

If you're planning to sell your phone, one of the first things you should check is whether it's network unlocked. An unlocked phone can be used with any mobile network, making it far more attractive to buyers — and worth 10-15% more than a locked device. Here's how to check your lock status on iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, and Google Pixel.

What Does "Unlocked" Mean?

When you buy a phone on a contract from a UK network like EE, Vodafone, Three, or O2, it may come "locked" to that network. This means the phone will only work with SIM cards from that specific provider. An "unlocked" phone works with any network's SIM card, giving the owner complete freedom to choose their provider.

In the UK, Ofcom regulations since 2021 require that phones sold on new contracts must be sold unlocked. However, phones purchased before December 2021, or bought through certain deals, may still be locked.

How to Check if Your iPhone is Unlocked

Method 1: Check in Settings (Easiest)

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap General.
3. Tap About.
4. Scroll down to Network Provider Lock (or Carrier Lock).
5. If it says "No SIM restrictions", your iPhone is unlocked.
6. If it says anything else (e.g., a network name), your iPhone is locked to that network.

This method works on iPhone running iOS 14 or later and is the most reliable way to check.

Method 2: Try a Different SIM Card

If you have access to a SIM card from a different network, insert it into your iPhone. If the phone connects to the new network and can make calls, it's unlocked. If you see a message like "SIM Not Supported", the phone is locked.

How to Check if Your Samsung Galaxy is Unlocked

Method 1: Check in Settings

1. Insert a SIM card from any network.
2. Open Settings.
3. Tap Connections (or Network & Internet).
4. Tap Mobile Networks.
5. Tap Network Operators.
6. If the phone searches for and displays multiple networks, it's likely unlocked.

Method 2: SIM Lock Status

1. Open the Phone dialler app.
2. Type *#06# to display your IMEI number.
3. Note down the IMEI and use a free online IMEI checker to verify the lock status.

Method 3: Try a Different SIM

As with iPhone, the most straightforward test is to insert a SIM card from a different network. If it works, you're unlocked.

How to Check if Your Google Pixel is Unlocked

Method 1: Check in Settings

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Network & Internet.
3. Tap SIMs (or Mobile Network).
4. Look for any mention of a carrier lock or network restriction.
5. If there's no mention of a lock, your Pixel is likely unlocked.

Method 2: Try a Different SIM

Insert a SIM from a network different from your current one. If it connects successfully, your Pixel is unlocked. Google Pixels bought directly from the Google Store are always sold unlocked.

What to Do if Your Phone is Locked

If you discover your phone is locked, don't worry — you can usually get it unlocked for free or for a small fee:

Contact Your Network Provider

• EE: Free unlock if you've had the phone for more than 6 months, or if you've paid off your contract.
• Vodafone: Free unlock — request through the My Vodafone app or by calling customer service.
• Three: Free unlock — contact customer support or use the Three website.
• O2: Free unlock — request online through the O2 website.

Most UK networks will unlock your phone for free once your contract is complete. The process usually takes 24-72 hours.

Third-Party Unlocking Services

If your network won't unlock your phone (rare these days), third-party unlocking services can do it for £10-£30. Be cautious and use reputable services to avoid scams.

Why Unlocked Phones Are Worth More

When you sell your phone, unlocked devices consistently command higher prices for several reasons:

• Wider buyer pool: An unlocked phone appeals to customers on any network, increasing demand.
• International appeal: Unlocked phones can be used worldwide, opening up export markets.
• No hassle: Buyers don't need to go through an unlocking process.
• Higher perceived value: Unlocked status signals that the phone is fully paid off and legitimate.

At Cash My Tech, we buy both locked and unlocked phones, but unlocked devices receive higher quotes. It's always worth unlocking your phone before selling if you can — the extra 10-15% you'll receive far outweighs the effort.

Conclusion

Checking your phone's lock status takes less than a minute and could put an extra £30-£80 in your pocket when you sell. Whether you own an iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, or Google Pixel, use the methods above to verify your status. If your phone is locked, contact your network to unlock it before selling — it's usually free and always worth it. When you're ready to sell, Cash My Tech offers instant quotes for both locked and unlocked devices.