Have you bought a Samsung Galaxy S3 from an operator and want to use it in other networks when necessary? Here’s a few methods how to unlock your GS3:
Requesting the unlock code from your operator
- Find out what’s your phone IMEI number by calling the *#06# number. A screen will appear where you’ll see the code. Write it down somewhere.
- Call your network provider and ask for an unlock code. They might not give you the code until your contract is at least 6 or 12 months old. If they don’t give you the unlock code, proceed to the next method.
- However if they did give you the code, enter a SIM from a network that is not supported by your phone.
- Power up your GS3 and you’ll be asked for an unlock code. Enter it and you’ll be unlocked on that carrier.
Using an online unlocking service
There are some online services that provides you with an unlock code for a certain amount of money ($10-$20). It can take somewhere between 1 and 3 days and you’ll receive the code on email. Follow the 3rd and 4th steps from the above method and your phone will be unlocked.
Another root-free method
- Dial the following number: *#197328640#.
- Then follow through: [1] UMTS > [1] Debug Screen > [8] Phone Control > [6] Network Lock > Options [3] Perso SHA256 OFF > (Wait about 30 seconds then press the Menu button and select Back, now you’re in [6] Network Lock) > [4] NW Lock Data INNITIALIZZ > (Wait for a minute then reboot your handset).
After this your phone should turn into a neverlock, thus warranty is not affected at all. This method was confirmed on following carriers:
- Wind Mobile
- Mobilicity
- Bell
- Koodo
- Telus
- Rogers
GalaxSim Unlock method
GalaxSim Unlock is an app in Google Play Store that unlocks your phone if it is rooted. If your device is not rooted yet, please follow our earlier posted tutorial on how to root Samsung Galaxy S3.
Now all you have to do is download and install the above mentioned app and restart your phone. It should be now unlocked and you’re free to use it in other networks.
What method did you use to unlock your Galaxy device? Write down your experience in the comment section below.
HOW-TO: Unlock Samsung Galaxy S3