How can I know an iPhone is factory unlocked from Apple or under-contract/off-contract unlocked iPhone ( when I buy an New phone in an open box)

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Level 1

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How can I know an iPhone is factory unlocked from Apple or under-contract/off-contract unlocked iPhone ( when I buy an New phone in an open box)

I bought an new iphone 5 in an open box through craiglist. When a guy showed me the phone, I saw it was using T-mobile sim card with 3G. So I think it is unlock. then I went to a website that checks status of iphones using IMEI, I see the phone is lock, but I didn't see any carrier in information, then I put another IMEI (locked phone) I saw carrier is At&t

So, how can I know for sure is the phone is unlock factory (original buy from apple or reliable retailers)

I also see on ebay, some sellers do factory unlock for couple of dollars

iPhone 5, iOS 6.0.2

Posted on Jan 4, 2013 9:38 PM

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Answer 1

CableC

Level 1

10 points

Jan 4, 2013 9:47 PM in response to ptch89

The most effective way is to call apple support and ask them directly if the phone is unlocked.

Just call : (800) 676-2775 they will ask for the phone S/N after that the operator can help you find out what you need to know.

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Answer 2

imobl

Level 7

21,208 points

Jan 5, 2013 7:56 AM in response to ptch89

No website can give you correct information about unlock status

as they have no access to Apple's internal information. Such websites

are either a scam or gathering IMEI for cloning.

Sellers on eBay offering to unlock iPhone are hacking the iPhone which

voids any remaining warranty, will prevent out of warranty replacement

when noticed by Apple, and may turn your iPhone into a brick or

relock it to the original carrier when the next iOS update is released.

The only way to be sure the iPhone is truly unlocked is to buy from Apple

or an Apple authorixed retailer (and not all of them sell unlocked iPhones).

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