Unlocking using IMEI

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Level 1

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Unlocking using IMEI

Do you know if it is possible to unlock an iPhone 4 using IMEI? I cannot go physically to my carrier supplier due I am abroad and I will be out from my country for 2 year. Can they unlock it by internet?

This page: iPhone: Wireless carrier support and features says that Mexican carriers don't offer unlocking service, but since August 2012, based on the official norm NOM-184-SCFI-2012 (clause 4.2.2), they are obligated to do it. So, can they do it without have the physical devise?

Thanks for the support!

iPhone 4, iOS 7.1.2

Posted on Jul 23, 2014 1:48 AM

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Answer 1

FelipeV

Level 6

12,197 points

Jul 23, 2014 2:53 AM in response to Juan Ordaz

There is no way to unlock the phone using IMEI. Sites claiming that are most likely scams. Only the carriers can unlock the phone. Contact the carrier. Once the carier confirms that your phone is unlocked (usually via email) follow these steps:

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT5014

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Answer 2

Juan Ordaz Author

Level 1

0 points

Jul 23, 2014 3:50 AM in response to FelipeV

Thank you for your fast response Felipe!

I contacted them already and they told me that they have unlocked all their devices, so I tried to use the new SIM Card (they were On Hold while I was trying) , and it showed that it's not valid. I told them what happened and they insist that I must to go physically to the establishment so they can unlock it, but as I am away I cannot go. I am not a genius in IT stuff, so I want to corroborate that they actually need the device, or if they can do it by internet.

Hope I make it clear!

Do you know if they must have the phone to unlock it?

Thanks!

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Answer 3

FelipeV

Level 6

12,197 points

Jul 23, 2014 7:55 PM in response to Juan Ordaz

You usually do not need to send the device to them. The way it works is that the carrier will process the unlock with Apple, then you should get a notification from the carrier that the unlock has been processed. I have no idea why they are telling you to go to the store. The Mexican carriers usually make it a pain for you to unlock the phone. Perhaps they are being bureaucratic.

Since it is saying the SIM is not valid ,try to restore your phone as new via iTunes as the article suggests. You should get an message saying that the phone has been unlocked assuming that the carrier has processed the unlock. Backup the phone before restoring it as new.

If the phone does not unlock then, after the carrier claims that the unlock has been processed then the carrier is giving you the runaround. You would have to take it up with them.

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