Learn how to check if your phone is carrier-locked or unlocked in this step-by-step guide for both iOS and Android

The only way to know for certain that your phone is unlocked is to review your current policy with your carrier. A carrier-locked phone is tied to a single network provider, meaning you can’t switch to other carriers unless the phone is unlocked. Generally, the device is locked when you have received a discount on your device in exchange for a term contract with your carrier. The carriers lock the phone to prevent the device from switching between carriers while the term contract is in effect.

Carrier locks matter significantly for eSIM usage, as a locked phone prevents the installation of eSIMs from other providers. This means you won’t be able to activate a JapanSIMs sim or use other providers until the phone is unlocked.

Alternatively, you can self-check your phone's lock status.

For iOS Devices

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Navigate to General > About.
3. Scroll down to find Carrier Lock or Network Provider Lock.

• If you see 'No SIM restrictions', your phone is unlocked and can use eSIMs/pSIMs across various providers.
• If it doesn’t say this, the device is still locked to your carrier.

For Android Devices

1. Go to Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Network Operators.
2. Disable Select Automatically.
3. Wait a few seconds. If you see multiple available carrier networks, your phone is unlocked. If only your carrier appears, your phone is locked.

Carrier lock indicators on your device can include specific messages or restricted functionality. For instance, iOS devices may show 'No SIM restrictions', indicating an unlocked status, while locked phones may display a message such as 'Cellular plans from this carrier cannot be added' when trying to set up an eSIM.

If your phone is locked and you want to unlock it, please follow these steps:

1. Check Your Contract: Determine if the lock is due to an ongoing carrier contract.
2. Contact Your Carrier: Call the carrier to confirm the lock status and request unlocking.
3. Fulfil Contractual Obligations: Certain carriers require that all instalments on your phone be paid off before unlocking it.
4. Retry eSIM Installation After Unlock: Once unlocked, try installing the eSIM/pSIM again.