Verizon iPhone 5s: Is it SIM-unlocked for use with GSM carriers (outside the U.S.)?

Randall,

I'm simply trying to make this phone carrier independent so that I can sell it, or give it away so someone can sign up for any US carrier service (post or pre-paid). I'm expecting my new iPhone 6 next week.

For step #1, I have a non-activated nano sim from T-Mobile. Will it work?

Otherwise, I can ask my co-worker to use his current sim on a post-paid plan with AT&T to try this.

-Tom

p.s. the phone is clean per swappa

If thats the case just go to http://swappa.com/esn and run the check. It will let you know if you are clear to sell.

I edited my post above after checking swappa. I'd like to be able to advertise as "carrier independent phone" though....so that anyone can pop in a US carrier sim and it should work.

OK try the steps mentioned below. Quick and easy try different sim (than the AT&T you used prior) before proceeding with the steps below.

1. Place the non-VZW sim (sim needs to have service) back in the phone and go to settings... general... about... and wait to be prompted to update your carrier settings. If not prompted see 2.

2.Plug the phone into a computer running iTunes with the non-VZW sim and iTunes should prompt you to update the carrier settings. If all else fails try 3.

3. Restore the phone to factory settings (backing it up 1st via iTunes). Place the non-VZW sim in the phone and verify if it activates or is able to make calls. If it is simply restore the backup to the iPhone while leaving in the non-VWZ sim.

Interestingly, I inserted a non-active sim from T-mobile and the phone was able to registered it just fine. So I still I don't understand why my friend's AT&T active sim didn't work.

i also need help, please 🙂 i want iphone 5s out of usa, so which one is better to buy, iphone 5s verizon or att? i know i can unlock both, but is any different between them? if anybody can help me, pls tell me. as i know verizon doesnt need unlock, but im not sure 🙂)

natia_nati,

Get the Verizon version. It is factory unlocked (AT&T is not) and compatible with more global networks.

isnt any different between them? i mean both works the same way? im little scared to buy verizon, if it wont work out of USA i will have problem, coz im not from usa 🙂) im from Georgia 😊 also im confused, coz if its unlocked why can i see fucktory unlock services for iphone 5/5s verizon 😟

No warranty outside US if you buy it in US...you assume the risk.

I had no problem using my Verizon iPhone 5s in Dubai and Afghanistan with Etisalat and Roshan GSM sim cards. Works fine.