HOW-TO: Unlock Samsung Galaxy S4

Have you bought a Samsung Galaxy S4 from an operator and want to use it in other networks when necessary? Here’s a few methods how to unlock your GS4.

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 has at least 6 or 12 months. 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 GS4 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.

ServiceMode method

This method is completely free and doesn’t require your phone to be rooted, that’s why it’s probably the most common used method to unlock a Galaxy S4.

Dial the following number: *#27663368378#. In case that this number doesn’t do anything to your model, try dialing *#0011#instead. This will take you to ServiceMode screen.
Press the Menu button and then select Back.
Press again on the Menu button and select Key Input.
Enter 1 and press OK.
Then follow through: [1] UMTS > [1] Debug Screen > [6] Phone Control > [6] Network Lock > Options [3] Perso SHA256 OFF
Now tap on the Menu button and select Back until you are back in the UMTS Main Menu.
Tap on [6] NV REBUILD and then on [4] Restore Back-up.
Your Samsung GS4 will now reboot. This process might take some minutes. Congratulations! Your handset is now unlocked.

What method did you use to unlock your Galaxy S4? Write down your experience in the comment section below.

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