[eSIM] Smartphone SIM lock and how to unlock it

you know the term "SIM lock"

It would be a problem if you scanned the QR code of an eSIM that you thought you could use right away, only to find that the eSIM doesn't work due to a problem with the specifications of your smartphone or other device.

This time, as a way to deal with such a situation, we will introduce ``Explanation of SIM lock'' and ``How to unlock it by yourself''!

What is SIM lock?

SIM lock refers to a state in which the SIM is locked and cannot be used.

This means that whether it is a physical SIM or an eSIM, the carrier locks the device such as a smartphone so that only the carrier's line can be used.

In principle, devices sold after October 2021 do not have this SIM lock , but if the device was purchased before then, it may be locked so that only the line of the seller can be used. There is a gender.

SIM unlock procedure - iOS version -

First, make sure your device is SIM-locked.

Settings > General > Information > SIM lock

→ If the phone is SIM-locked, "SIM-locked" will be displayed.

Next, check the IMEI number of your device.

Settings > General > Information > IMEI number

→ If your phone supports dual SIM, two IMEI numbers may appear. Basically, check the IMEI number, not IMEI2.

Once you have confirmed this information, log in to the official website of your carrier and follow the instructions to proceed with the SIM unlocking procedure.

Once the process is complete, check whether the eSIM you purchased is usable and set it up.

SIM unlock procedure - Android version -

Similarly, please make sure that your device is SIM-locked.

However, depending on the model and OS version, you may be able to check from the settings screen, or you may not be able to check at all.

If you cannot confirm this in the settings, check whether an error occurs when loading another eSIM.

Next, check your IMEI number.

Settings > Device information > Device status > IMEI number

→ If your phone supports dual SIM, two IMEI numbers may appear. Basically, check the IMEI number, not IMEI2.

Once you have done this, log in to the official website of your carrier and follow the instructions to unlock the SIM.

Once the process is complete, check whether the eSIM you purchased is usable and set it up.

* For Android OS, the IMEI number may be displayed differently depending on the device. Please check the information for your device.

summary

In this article, we explained the steps to unlock the SIM lock by yourself, but if your carrier has a store, you can actually bring your smartphone in and complete the procedure at the store. It may be possible.

Of course, even in this case, you will still need to check the IMEI number mentioned above, so it may be a good idea to check it in advance and inform the person in charge to make things go more smoothly.

We hope this article helps resolve errors for those using eSIM.