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How do I unlock my phone without a sim on a different network?

Nancybrown77
3: Seeker
3: Seeker

Hi. I've just upgraded and want to sell my old phone but I want to sell it unlocked. The instructions say insert a sim from a different network and follow on screen instructions and set up iCloud etc - but I only have my vodafone sim?

2 REPLIES 2

BandOfBrothers
17: Community Champion
17: Community Champion

Hi @Nancybrown77 

 

You could use a another networks Payg sim card that can be picked up from supermarkets or discount stores for £1.

 

Or use a friends, family members or work colleagues non Vodafone sim card  !

 

The sim card activates the iPhone.

 

As you mention iCloud may I assume we are talking about an iPhone?

An iPhone is not unlocked via inputting a Nuc {unlocking code} like other phone models are, but instead is unlocked remotely by Apple themselves and their Database.

 

So no actual Nuc is sent by Vodafone UK. 

 

The Vodafone Network lets a person know by email it's unlocking has been requested to Apple after accepting your Nuc online unlock request. (Please Check Spam Inboxes too) 

 

Please Note > The iPhone isn't actually usually unlocked to all networks at this stage when Vodafone email you. 

 

What happens is Apple then process the Networks request and occasionally this can take Apple approximately from a few days upto a furthet 30+ days sometimes from Vodafone's email to complete an unlock request made by a Network. 

 

To complete the process please Periodically insert an active i.e. connects to mobile network data, alternative Networks Sim Card in the iPhone with hooking upto iTunes is only typically needed if its an iPhone 4 or older although it wouldn't harm to do so. 

 

From the iPhone 5 onwards there's not normally the need to hook up to iTunes to complete the process. 

When it's unlocked you should see a pop up message and the alternatives Networks name will show in the iPhone's status bar. 

 

This link may also help as.your intending to sell your phone.

 

What to do before you sell, give away, or trade in your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. 

Current Phone  >

Samsung Galaxy s²³ Ultra 512gb Phantom Black.

 

 

AnnS
17: Community Champion
17: Community Champion

Hi @Nancybrown77 

 

If you don't have an alternative network SIM card, simply synchronise to itunes to complete the unlocking process.