How to Check if a Used iPhone is Unlocked
Buying a locked iPhone means you are stuck with one carrier. Here is how to check if a used iPhone is unlocked before you buy, and what to do if it is locked.
What Does "Unlocked" Mean?
An unlocked iPhone is not tied to any specific mobile carrier. You can insert a SIM card from Telstra, Optus, Vodafone, or any other carrier and it will work. A locked iPhone only works with the carrier it was originally sold with.
Method 1: Check with a Different SIM Card
This is the most reliable method:
- Power off the iPhone
- Remove the current SIM card (use the SIM eject tool or a paperclip)
- Insert a SIM card from a different carrier
- Power on the iPhone
- Try making a call or checking for signal bars
If you see signal bars and can make a call, the iPhone is unlocked. If you see "SIM Not Supported" or "Activation Required", it is locked.
Method 2: Check in Settings
On iOS 14 and later:
- Open Settings > General > About
- Look for "Carrier Lock" or "Network Provider Lock"
- If it says "No SIM restrictions", the phone is unlocked
- If it says "SIM locked", contact the carrier to unlock
Method 3: Check Online via IMEI
You can check the lock status using the IMEI number:
- Dial *#06# to get the IMEI, or find it in Settings > General > About
- Use an online IMEI checker (some are free, some charge)
- Enter the IMEI and check the "SIM Lock" status
Note: Free IMEI checkers are not always 100% accurate. The SIM card method is most reliable.
What to Do if Your iPhone is Locked
If you bought a locked iPhone, you have a few options:
- Contact the original carrier - They may unlock it for free if you meet eligibility requirements (usually 6-12 months after purchase, account in good standing)
- Use a third-party unlocking service - Costs -, but be careful of scams
- Return it - If you bought from a reputable seller with a return policy, return it
Why Buy an Unlocked iPhone?
- Carrier flexibility - Switch between Telstra, Optus, Vodafone, or MVNOs
- Better resale value - Unlocked phones sell for more
- Travel friendly - Use local SIM cards overseas
- No carrier bloatware - Clean, unmodified software
USEDIPHONE: All Unlocked, Guaranteed
Every iPhone sold by USEDIPHONE is 100% network unlocked and compatible with every Australian carrier. We verify unlock status before listing, and if any device arrives locked, we will replace it immediately under our 1-year warranty.
Shop with confidence at USEDIPHONE - Australia's cheapest used iPhones, all unlocked, all backed by a 1-year replacement warranty.