Unlocking an iPhone refers to the process of freeing the device from its SIM lock that restricts it to a specific carrier network. There has been considerable debate around the legality of unlocking smartphones, especially iPhones, over the years. While regulations have changed several times, here is a quick look at the current laws regarding unlocking an iPhone in the United States:
Quick Answer
Yes, it is legal for consumers to unlock their iPhones themselves after fulfilling the terms of their initial service contract or payment plan. However, the process for unlocking changes frequently and users must ensure they follow the correct steps for their specific model and iOS version.
What does unlocking an iPhone mean?
When you purchase a new iPhone from a carrier like AT&T, Verizon or T-Mobile, it typically comes SIM-locked to that carrier’s network initially. This means you can only use the iPhone with a SIM card from that specific carrier. The SIM lock prevents you from switching carriers without unlocking the phone first.
Unlocking an iPhone removes this SIM lock so you can use it on other carrier networks, both domestically and internationally. For example, unlocking would allow you to pop in a SIM card from a different carrier like Verizon or a local carrier when traveling overseas.
Is unlocked the same as unlocked?
No, there is a difference between an unlocked iPhone and unlocking an iPhone:
- Unlocked iPhone: This refers to an iPhone that is sold without a carrier SIM lock in the first place. Apple sells some iPhone models fully unlocked, meaning it can work on any carrier out of the box.
- Unlocking an iPhone: This refers to the process of removing the SIM lock from a locked iPhone via software or codes.
When can you legally unlock an iPhone?
According to current laws and regulations in the United States, it is legal for consumers to unlock their iPhones in the following scenarios:
- The initial service contract or installment billing plan tied to the iPhone has been fully completed or paid off.
- The carrier has agreed to unlock the iPhone at the user’s request, even if still under contract.
- The user chooses to unlock the iPhone themselves using third-party unlocking services or DIY methods.
Essentially, the law allows you to unlock your iPhone once you outright own the device, either by finishing payments or after the initial term of service. Carriers must unlock devices upon request in these situations. Users are also permitted to unlock phones independently by circumventing built-in locks.
When is it illegal to unlock an iPhone?
It is illegal to unlock an iPhone that is still actively tied to a service contract or installment plan. This applies to the following situations:
- You purchased a subsidized iPhone from a carrier and are still under the 1-2 year contract term.
- You are still making payments on an iPhone through a carrier installment plan.
Unlocking the iPhone during the initial contract term would be breach of contract. The carrier is within its rights to continue the service lock during this period. Additionally, acquiring unlock codes or services illegally through hacking or theft is unlawful.
What are the benefits of unlocking an iPhone?
Here are some of the key benefits consumers can enjoy by unlocking their iPhones:
- Switch carriers: You can move to a new carrier that offers better prices, coverage or plan options.
- Use local SIMs when traveling: Insert a local pay-as-you-go SIM abroad to avoid roaming fees.
- Resell value: Unlocked phones have higher resale value as they work across multiple carriers.
- Flexibility: Change your service or device anytime without carrier restrictions.
How can you unlock an iPhone?
Typically, there are three methods to unlock your iPhone:
- Through your carrier: Contact customer service and request that they unlock your iPhone if you meet their eligibility requirements. This is the simplest legal method.
- Using third-party services: Various online services can unlock your iPhone by essentially hacking the SIM lock. This exploits backdoors in the software.
- DIY unlocking: Manually enter special unlock codes into your iPhone to disable the SIM lock. Different codes work for different models.
The best method depends on your specific model, iOS version, carrier policies and other factors. Always research reputable unlocking services and use official unlock codes to avoid issues.
Does unlocking void the iPhone warranty?
Unlocking your iPhone through your carrier or using Apple’s official unlock process will not void your warranty. However, tampering with the software by hacking or circumventing the locked state can potentially void your warranty according to the iPhone warranty terms:
Important: Do not open iPhone and do not attempt to repair iPhone yourself; doing so will void this warranty.
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This warranty does not apply: (a) to damage caused by use with non-Apple products; (b) to damage caused by accident, abuse, misuse, flood, fire, earthquake or other external causes; (c) to damage caused by operating the Apple Product outside the permitted or intended uses described by Apple; (d) to damage caused by service (including upgrades and expansions) performed by anyone who is not a representative of Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider (“AASP”); (e) to an Apple Product that has been modified to alter functionality or capability without the written permission of Apple; (f ) to defects caused by normal wear and tear or otherwise due to the normal aging of the Apple Product; or (g) if any Apple serial number has been removed or defaced.
If you damage components while DIY unlocking, modify the software, or acquire grey market unlock codes that tamper with iOS, you risk voiding your iPhone warranty according to these terms.
Does factory resetting unlock an iPhone?
Performing a factory reset or restoring your iPhone using iTunes does not unlock it from its carrier. Resetting the device simply erases data and settings and restores the original software. It has no impact on the SIM lock itself.
A factory reset may be required after you unlock the iPhone to clear errors and allow proper reconfiguration of carrier settings. But the reset alone does not remove the carrier lock.
Is unlocking legal worldwide?
The laws and regulations surrounding iPhone unlocking vary across different countries. Here is a quick look at the legality across some major regions:
| Country | Is Unlocking Legal? |
|---|---|
| United States | Legal after fulfilling contract or carrier agrees |
| Canada | Legal after 90 days under Wireless Code |
| United Kingdom | Legal without carrier permission |
| Australia | Depends on specific carrier contract terms |
| Germany | Legal after 3 months under contract |
Most countries now have laws allowing unlocking under certain conditions. However, be sure to check the specific regulations in your region before attempting to unlock your iPhone.
Does Apple approve of unlocking iPhones?
Apple’s official stance on unlocking iPhones has shifted over time. Historically, they discouraged or even sued independent unlocking services. More recently however, Apple has become more transparent about the process and even offers an official unlocking process for eligible devices.
Apple now approves of carrier unlocking iPhones that are fully owned and clear any financing plans. They even have a global unlocked iPhone model that works across all networks. However, they still discourage illegal third-party unlocking methods that tamper with iOS security protections.
Can you re-lock an unlocked iPhone?
Yes, it is possible to re-lock an unlocked iPhone so it only works on specific carriers again. This involves essentially reversing the unlocking process.
You may need to re-lock your iPhone if you want to trade it back into a carrier and get a subsidized upgrade pricing, which often requires a locked device. Carriers can usually reapply the SIM lock at your request.
However, re-locking an iPhone through unofficial means can be complex and risky. The iPhone must be wiped to factory settings first. It is best to contact your carrier to reapply the lock if desired.
Conclusion
Unlocking iPhones is legal in the United States provided you own your device outright. Users are permitted to circumvent locking measures after completing service contracts or installment payments. While unlocking an iPhone still under contract is prohibited, you can unlock it yourself or via your carrier once fully owned.
Unlocking allows using your iPhone on flexible networks, saving on roaming abroad, and reselling at higher value. While Apple previously discouraged the practice, they now approve unlocking owned phones. However, never attempt to unlock an iPhone illegally or still under financing as it violates your contract and warranty.