Archive for March, 2015

Step by Step Guide: How to Unlock LG Cell Phone

If you want to unlock your LG cell phone, you will first need to identify the model of your phone.  Being that there are literally hundreds of LG phones on the market, it’s important that you keep in mind that an unlock process for one LG phone may not work on your exact LG phone.  Here’s a quick look at the unlock process for three of today’s most popular LG cell phones.

Unlock LG G3

You will first need to purchase an unlock code, and after doing so, please follow the steps listed below:

  • Insert a SIM from the carrier you are wanting to switch to; it should show up as an “Unaccepted Simcard
  • At this point, you should see texts pop up on the screen asking for an unlock code
  • Enter the unlock code that we provided to you and click “OK” or “confirm” or “Submit
  • Your phone should be unlocked

Unlock LG Optimus G

You will first need to purchase an unlock code, and after doing so, please follow the steps listed below:

  • Turn on your LG Optimus G
  • Make sure the original SIM card is in it
  • From the home screen, type in 2945#*970#
  • You will see a menu pop up
  • Select “SIM UNLOCK” or “NETWORK UNLOCK
  • Type in your unlock code that you received from us and select “OK” or “SUBMIT” or “CONFIRM
  • The phone may or may not reboot itself
  • It should now be unlocked

Unlock LG G Vista

You will first need to purchase an unlock code, and after doing so, please follow the steps listed below:

  • Insert a SIM card into the phone that comes from the carrier you are wanting to switch to,
  • Turn on the phone,
  • A message stating “Enter unlock code” should appear,
  • Type in the unlock code that you received from us,
  • If for some reason you are not asked to enter an unlock code, you will need to contact us.

* Bonus Tip * 

Please keep in mind that when contacting UnlockBase for an unlock code, we will need the IMEI number off of your phone, which can usually be identified by typing in *#06# and hitting the “send” button.  You should receive a text message with your IMEI number.



All products, and company names, logos, and service marks (collectively the "Trademarks") displayed are registered® and/or unregistered trademarks™ of their respective owners. The authors of this web site are not sponsored by or affiliated with any of the third-party trade mark or third-party registered trade mark owners, and make no representations about them, their owners, their products or services.

Unlock Samsung Galaxy Avant (SM-G386T) from T-Mobile using MetroPCS Firmware

 

 
Update as of 9th November 2017: This article NO LONGER applies to all Samsung models. No need to install a custom firmware to unlock all Samsung models. Please check the New Samsung Unlock Guide herehttps://www.unlockbase.com/unlock-phone/samsung/galaxy-s6/

For T-Mobile and MetroPCS users, please check updated Mobile Device Unlock App for permanent unlock. Click here.

Reason: Installing custom firmware doesn’t guarantee permanent unlock for T-Mobile and MetroPCS phones with pre-installed Mobile Device Unlock App. Please click above links for updated unlock processes. Thank you. 

 

Update 19th June 2015: Too complicated ?! Don’t want to risk to flash your phone with new firmware ?! Please take a look to our new Official mobile “Device Unlock” app method to unlock your Samsung using official Android App.

The Samsung Galaxy Avant (SM-G386T) cell phone from T-Mobile USA is using a custom firmware preventing the phone from being unlocked by code as there is no way to enter it (the phone is simply not asking for “SIM Network Unlock PIN”). Before this post, the only way to Unlock the phone was by using the official T-Mobile  “Mobile Device Unlock App” which is an Android app called “Device Unlock” that allows you to request and apply a mobile device unlock directly from the device.

So what do you do if you get an Unlock Code but you cannot use it?

Now there is a solution consisting of an upgrade to the firmware of the phone with MetroPCS Firmware instead of T-Mobile, and this will allow the phone to ask for the Unlock Code. Below you will find a tutorial about how to do this. Once you flash (update) your Phone with this New Firmware, please make sure that your Samsung SM-G386T is asking for “SIM Network Unlock PIN”. And if the answer is yes you can then click this link to order the Unlock Code of your Samsung Galaxy Avant from T-Mobile USA.

Service Name: Samsung T-Mobile USA [NEW GEN 2015] – NCK + SPCK (1<>4 Hours Mon-Fri) – [Tool ID: 775]

Step by Step Tutorial Firmware Upgrade
Samsung Galaxy Avant (SM-GT386T) to MetroPCS Firmware

 

 
Update as of 9th November 2017: This article NO LONGER applies to all Samsung models. No need to install a custom firmware to unlock all Samsung models. Please check the New Samsung Unlock Guide herehttps://www.unlockbase.com/unlock-phone/samsung/galaxy-s6/

For T-Mobile and MetroPCS users, please check updated Mobile Device Unlock App for permanent unlock. Click here.

Reason: Installing custom firmware doesn’t guarantee permanent unlock for T-Mobile and MetroPCS phones with pre-installed Mobile Device Unlock App. Please click above links for updated unlock processes. Thank you. 

 

Disclaimer: UnlockBase is not responsible if users break / brick or damage their phone while trying to use this method. You must not use this firmware for any other Android Cell Phone other than the Samsung Galaxy Avant (SM-G386T) from T-Mobile USA. Do so at your own risk. If you’re not sure what you are doing, please seek assistance at a local cell phone service center in your area.

Step 1 (Preparation): 

  1. Download the Special MPCS Firmware for Samsung SM-G386T using think link.
  2. Download ODIN v3.09 Service Software using this link.
  3. Make sure your phone battery is charged more than 60%.
  4. Enable USB Debugging, by open Settings > Developers Option > USB Debugging
    If Developers Option is hidden, go to Settings > About Phone > Built Number (tap on it for 5-8 times)
  5. Make sure you install the Samsung Galaxy Avant USB drivers on your PC, if you haven’t already.

(Optional: Download the Original T-Mobile Firmware for Samsung SM-G386T using think link.)

Step 2 (Update SM-G386T Firmware): 

  1. Run Odin3 v3.09 as administrator (Right-Click: Run as Administrator).
  2. Switch OFF your Samsung Galaxy Avant SM-G386T
  3. Boot in download mode, by pressing the Volume Down + Home + Power Key simultaneously.
    Samsung Galaxy Avant SM-G386T Download Mode
  4. When a construction Android robot icon with a warning triangle appears on screen:Construction Android Robot Icon on a Samsung SM-G386T while booting in download modeTap Volume Up button to enter Download Mode:Samsung Galaxy Avant Download Mode Activated
  5. Connect the Samsung Galaxy Avant SM-G386T (T-Mobile) to your PC with the USB cable.
    Odin will automatically detect your phone and show the “Added!” message.Samsung smartphone added to Odin
  6. In the Odin, click on AP or PDA
    and then choose G386T1UVU1ANH3_G386T1TMB1ANH3_G386T1UVU1ANH3_HOME.tar file.
    Select MetroPCS firmware with Odin for Samsung SM-G386T
  7. Ensure Auto Reboot and F. Reset Time options are selected selected in Odin
    while the Re-Partition option is unchecked (this is very important).
  8. Click Start in Odin and wait for the software to update your phone.
    Odin press start to upgrade Samsung SM-G386T to MetroPCS Firmware
  9. Once the root installation is done, your phone will reboot
    and soon a PASS message with a green background appears in the left-most box at the very top of Odin.Odin3 finish pass
  10. You can close Odin after device turns on.
  11. Your Samsung Galaxy Avant SM-G386T is now fully update with MetroPCS Firmware!

AFTER FLASHING A SAMSUNG SM-G386T T-MOBILE WITH THIS FIRMWARE THE PHONE WILL ASK FOR A NETWORK CODE WHEN YOU PUT A NON APPROVED CARRIER’S SIM CARD ON THE PHONE. AFTER YOU HAVE UNLOCKED THE SM-G386T YOU CAN FLASH A T-MOBILE FIRMWARE BACK TO THE DEVICE SO THAT IT GOES BACK TO STOCK AND THE CUSTOMER DOES NOT LOSE WARRANTY. PHONE WILL REMAIN UNLOCKED.

 

 
Update as of 9th November 2017: This article NO LONGER applies to all Samsung models. No need to install a custom firmware to unlock all Samsung models. Please check the New Samsung Unlock Guide herehttps://www.unlockbase.com/unlock-phone/samsung/galaxy-s6/

For T-Mobile and MetroPCS users, please check updated Mobile Device Unlock App for permanent unlock. Click here.

Reason: Installing custom firmware doesn’t guarantee permanent unlock for T-Mobile and MetroPCS phones with pre-installed Mobile Device Unlock App. Please click above links for updated unlock processes. Thank you. 

 



All products, and company names, logos, and service marks (collectively the "Trademarks") displayed are registered® and/or unregistered trademarks™ of their respective owners. The authors of this web site are not sponsored by or affiliated with any of the third-party trade mark or third-party registered trade mark owners, and make no representations about them, their owners, their products or services.

Top 5 Budget-friendly Unlocked International Cell Phones for Travel

When it comes to mobile phones, most people are choosing to hop on the smartphone bandwagon.  Not only do these phones offer an assortment of features and application capabilities, but they also come in many shapes and sizes.  And best of all, some of them are unlocked, meaning they can be used on various networks.  Most importantly, some of them can be used overseas, making them perfect for those of you who travel internationally or have loved ones who are in the military.

Here’s a quick look at five of the most popular unlocked phones that can be used internationally.  Do keep in mind, though, that once you land in a different country, you’ll need to purchase a new SIM card for the carrier you wish to use; this allows you to make international calls without going bankrupt.

Asus ZenFone 4

The ZenFone 4 is an incredibly affordable smartphone.  If you want a larger display screen, opt for the ZenPhone 5.  The ZenFone comes with several attractive features, including:

  • 5-megapixel camera
  • Intel Atom processor
  • Android 4.3
  • 1GB of RAM
  • Moto G

If you liked the Moto X, then you’ll love the Moto G.  Available without a contract and for only $179, the smartphone features Android 4.4 KitKat, great performance, and specifically directed toward people traveling internationally, it is available with GSM.

Nokia Lumia 625

If you’re wanting to travel with a Windows phone, then the Nokia Lumia 625 is an excellent option that you should take advantage of.  It has 512MB of RAM, a 4.7-inch display, a 2,000mAh battery and much more.  Although this phone regularly retails for nearly $300, you can usually find it online for much cheaper.

Asus PadFone Mini

Wanting a smartphone that doubles as a tablet?  If so, you’ll love the PadFone Mini.  It comes out of the box with Android 4.3 as well as 1GB of RAM.  It’s 8-megapixel camera takes amazing pictures and captures clear video.  When it comes to extreme versatility for international travel, this is the phone you’ll want to invest in.

Sony Xperia E Dual

Although this phone doesn’t come with a microSD card slot, it still features a rear-facing camera, 4GB of memory, a big battery life and plenty of compatible apps.  You can usually find this phone for well under $100, and it works well with just about any international carrier.

If you would like more information about unlocking your cell phone to use while traveling abroad, contact UnlockBase today.



All products, and company names, logos, and service marks (collectively the "Trademarks") displayed are registered® and/or unregistered trademarks™ of their respective owners. The authors of this web site are not sponsored by or affiliated with any of the third-party trade mark or third-party registered trade mark owners, and make no representations about them, their owners, their products or services.

How to Guide on Legally Unlocking an AT&T Phone

It wasn’t that long ago that unlocking your cell phone was like going to the underground black market and purchasing some illegal unlock code, followed then by hitting up a dealer on the way home who dealt unlocking services as a side job. Nowadays, though, that’s all behind us. Thanks to the FCC, carriers must now allow you to unlock your phone if you meet certain requirements.

Here’s a quick look at the legal way for unlocking an AT&T cell phone.

Make sure you meet the requirements

First and foremost, you’ll need to meet the following requirements to unlock AT&T phone:

  • Your contract has ended and all terms have been fulfilled
  • If your contract hasn’t ended, your remaining balance and an Early Termination Fee will have to be paid
  • Your account is in good standing
  • The phone has not been reported lost or stolen
  • The phone must be fully paid for
  • Prepaid phones must have previously had active service with AT&T for at least 60 days
  • GoPhones must have previously had active service with AT&T for 6 months

Locate Your IMEI Number

Once you have made sure that you meet the above mentioned requirements, you’ll then need to identify your phone’s IMEI number, which can be viewed by typing *#06# on your keypad and hitting SEND or CALL. You’ll receive a message with your IMEI number or it will automatically appear on your screen depending on the type of AT&T phone you have.

Give the Number to Your Unlock Code Service Provider

Contact the service provider who you are getting an unlock code through and give them your IMEI number. They will in turn give you an unlock code either for free or for a fee. Do keep in mind that you need to get the code from a trustworthy source or the data on your phone could be exploited. The service provider who gives you an unlock code should provide you with step-by-step instructions for unlocking your phone. If you have any questions, make sure to contact UnlockBase today.



All products, and company names, logos, and service marks (collectively the "Trademarks") displayed are registered® and/or unregistered trademarks™ of their respective owners. The authors of this web site are not sponsored by or affiliated with any of the third-party trade mark or third-party registered trade mark owners, and make no representations about them, their owners, their products or services.

Best and Easiest Phones to Unlock Over GSM Network

When it comes to unlocking cell phones, you need to know whether or not it is CDMA or GSM.  Most carriers in the United States — U.S. Cellular, Sprint and Verizon — use CDMA technology.  T-Mobile and AT&T on the other hand use GSM technology.  To keep things simple, if you want to unlock your phone, you must first identify what carrier the phone was originally used with.  If it was with AT&T or T-Mobile, then you’ll need to go about the unlocking process keeping in mind that the phone operates off of GMS technology.

Here’s a quick look at the best and easiest phones to unlock over a GSM network.

Samsung Galaxy S5

Keep in mind that if you want to unlock your GSM phone, it will have to be used with a different carrier who also uses GSM technology.  To unlock a Samsung S5, first remove the current SIM card and insert one from the carrier you want to switch to.  Now, turn the phone back on. The phone will ask for an unlock code (SIM Network Unlock PIN).  Enter the code that you purchased from a service provider.  If it then asks for a Network Code, enter it as well.  The phone should now be unlocked.

Samsung Galaxy Note 4

The Galaxy Note 4 is the flagship for Samsung when it comes to screen size and resolution.  Fortunately, you can easily unlock your Samsung Galaxy Note 4 in as little as three steps.  First, give the IMEI number of your phone to a service provider who sells unlock codes.  To get this number, go to SETTINGS >> About device >> Status.  Then, follow the directions given to you by the service provider and type in the unlock code when asked for it.  That’s it; your phone should be unlocked.

HTC One M8

Need to unlock HTC One M8? This is another GSM phone that is incredibly easy to unlock.  Simply remove the nanoSIM and replace it with one from the carrier you want to switch to.  After turning the phone back on, enter the unlock code you received from an unlock service provider, and voila!  Your phone is unlocked and can be used on any GSM network.

For more information on unlocking a GSM phone, check out UnlockBase today.



All products, and company names, logos, and service marks (collectively the "Trademarks") displayed are registered® and/or unregistered trademarks™ of their respective owners. The authors of this web site are not sponsored by or affiliated with any of the third-party trade mark or third-party registered trade mark owners, and make no representations about them, their owners, their products or services.

How to Unlock Your Huawei Phone

Huawei has a slew of top-of-the-line phones.  Take for instance the P7.  This finely-crafted phone might not be as powerful and bold as the Samsung S5, but when compared to other phones in its same class and price range, it definitely tops the list.  At only 6.5mm thick and weighing only 4.37 ounces, this phone easily fits into your pocket.  And don’t forget about the amazing camera and display screen.

As grand as the Huawei P7 is, or any other Huawei phone, service on the phones will of course be largely influenced by your carrier.  If you have found yourself stuck in a contract that serves the purpose of nothing less than a burden, then take comfort in knowing that you can unlock your Huawei phone and switch carriers.

Tips for Unlocking Your Huawei Phone

The exact way to go about unlocking your Huawei phone will depend on the model that you have.  No matter the model, though, you will need an unlock code.  When acquiring this code, make sure it comes from a trustworthy source, or you might end up “bricking” your phone, meaning it will be permanently locked to your current carrier.

Also, make sure that you have step-by-step instructions for unlocking your phone according to the model that it is.  If you go about unlocking the phone the wrong way, this can lead to a loss of data and files as well as “bricking.”  On most models, you will have only three attempts to enter the unlock code.

To get an unlock code, you will need to give the source through which you’re acquiring the code and the IMEI number off of your phone.  This number is usually found under the battery in the phone.  On many Huawei phones, you will need two to four codes altogether (all of which come together when you get an unlock code): Network code, Service provider code, subset Unlock PIN, and/or Counter Unlock code.  If at any time throughout the unlocking process your phone displays “simlock block unlock reset key,” then you will enter the Counter Unlock code.

Once you have completed the necessary steps involved in unlocking your Huawei phone, you can then use the phone on any compatible network carrier.  If you have further questions about unlocking your phone, don’t hesitate to contact UnlockBase today.



All products, and company names, logos, and service marks (collectively the "Trademarks") displayed are registered® and/or unregistered trademarks™ of their respective owners. The authors of this web site are not sponsored by or affiliated with any of the third-party trade mark or third-party registered trade mark owners, and make no representations about them, their owners, their products or services.

Unlock iPhone from Claro Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay

Exclusively for UnlockBase server we are now able to offer a new service to unlock all iPhone from Claro Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay. Service is working in less than 4 business days (Monday to Friday) and support absolutely all iPhone from Claro as long as it’s one of these three countries, including the 6 and 6 Plus ! This is a new exclusive service from UnlockBase Server, all we need is the IMEI of your iPhone and it will be registered as “Unlocked” on iTunes server (Permanent Factory Unlock).

Service Name: Claro Argentina/Uruguay/Paraguay – All iPhone Including 6/6+ [Tool ID: 761]

You can check our prices on our Wholesale Unlock Pricing page.



All products, and company names, logos, and service marks (collectively the "Trademarks") displayed are registered® and/or unregistered trademarks™ of their respective owners. The authors of this web site are not sponsored by or affiliated with any of the third-party trade mark or third-party registered trade mark owners, and make no representations about them, their owners, their products or services.

Unlock Nokia from Movistar Latin America

Today we have added three new services to Unlock Nokia Cell Phones locked by Movistar in any Latin America Countries. Our supplier will deliver unlock code for any Nokia from this Network in less than 5 business days. Support Nokia locked on Movistar Networks from any of these Latin America Countries: Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Uruguay & Venezuela. The exact list and names of these new services are listed below:

Movistar America – Nokia 100/101/105/106/108/113 – [Tool ID: 758]
Movistar America – Nokia Lumia – [Tool ID: 760]
Movistar America – Nokia SL3 & 20 Digitos – [Tool ID: 759]

You can check our prices on our Wholesale Unlock Pricing page.



All products, and company names, logos, and service marks (collectively the "Trademarks") displayed are registered® and/or unregistered trademarks™ of their respective owners. The authors of this web site are not sponsored by or affiliated with any of the third-party trade mark or third-party registered trade mark owners, and make no representations about them, their owners, their products or services.

Sony Xperia Z3 Unlocking and Relocking Tutorial

Unlocking the boot loader on your Sony Xperia Z3 enables you to perform a variety of custom functions, from flashing custom kernels and ROMS to initiating rooting features. Before you implement the methods detailed below, remember that Sony’s warranty doesn’t cover mishaps resulting from custom tweaking, such as bricking. Back up the contents of your phone, as all data will be erased upon unlocking.

Preparing to Unlock the Sony Xperia Z3

  1. Verify that you have installed the Android ADB and Fastboot drivers on your computer using the Minimal tool’s quick setup feature.
  2. Check whether your phone supports unlocking of the boot loader. Navigate to the dial pad on your phone and type *#*#7378423#*#*.
  3. Once the code is entered, a menu appears.
  4. Navigate to Service info > Configuration > boot loader Unlock. If the message reads “Yes,” you have confirmed that the phone supports unlocking of the boot loader. Otherwise, you can check whether the boot loader is already unlocked, which may be the case if your phone was pre-owned.
  5. Navigate to the dial pad and type *#06#* to display your phone’s IMEI number. Record the number for reference.
  6. Turn off your phone.
  7. Launch the Minimal ADB and Fastboot command prompt.
  8. Press and hold down the Volume Up button on your phone and connect the USB cable from your phone to your computer. If you have a modified Z3 phone, try pressing and holding down the Back button instead.
  9. Verify that your phone is using the most recent Android firmware. Unlocking the phone with older firmware installed may cause the camera to stop working.
  10. Type fastboot.exe -i 0x0fce getvar version into the command prompt and press Enter. The window will output a response value in the form of a decimal. If this value is displayed, then the phone is properly set up.
  11. Navigate to the Sony Developer unlock web page and read and accept the terms and conditions to proceed. Note that your warranty may be void if you proceed.
  12. Type your name, your Xperia Z3’s IMEI number barring the last digit, and your email address into the appropriate fields. Click the Submit button to send an unlock code request to Sony.
  13. Check your inbox for an email from Sony containing your Xperia Z3’s boot loader unlock code. If you don’t see the email after waiting a few minutes, check your Spam folder.
  14. Type fastboot.exe -i 0x0fce oem unlock 0xCODE into the command prompt, replacing code with the unlock code you received from Sony. Press Enter to fully unlock the boot loader. The command prompt should display logs.
  15. If the above steps didn’t work, consult a professional phone unlocking company for more advanced services.

Relocking the Sony Xperia Z3

After you unlock the Xperia Z3, relocking it is easy, even for people without experience. Relocking the boot loader enables the phone to access important system updates and lets you fix system issues via SEUS/PCC. Follow these steps to relock your phone:

  1. Verify that FlashTool is downloaded and properly installed on the phone.
  2.  Download the appropriate FTF Z3 boot loader relock file to your computer.
  3.  Open the FTF file in FlashTool. When the flashmode prompt appears, turn off the phone and, while holding down the decrease volume button, connect the USB cable from your computer to your phone to enable flashmode.
  4. Restart your phone after the flashing completes to fully relock the Z3 boot loader.
  5. As with the unlock procedure, if you have trouble relocking your phone, search online for a reputable phone unlocking company for tailored services.

Due to this being extremely technical, we hold no responsibility if phone is broken, bricked or damaged by using this method. It also depends on the version firmware of the Sony Xperia and this method might not work in future. We recommend being very careful. To avoid these issues, you can simply order the unlock code for your Sony Xperia Z3 from UnlockBase. You might also want to read our post about If you are thinking about purchasing the Sony Xperia Z3 be sure to look into all the possible consequences before making a decision about modifying your device.

Disclaimer: UnlockBase is not responsible if users break / brick or damage their phone while trying to use this method.



All products, and company names, logos, and service marks (collectively the "Trademarks") displayed are registered® and/or unregistered trademarks™ of their respective owners. The authors of this web site are not sponsored by or affiliated with any of the third-party trade mark or third-party registered trade mark owners, and make no representations about them, their owners, their products or services.

Unlock any iPhone from Tigo El Salvador

Exclusively for UnlockBase server we are now able to offer a new service to Unlock all iPhone from Tigo El Salvador. Service is working in less than 3 business days (Monday to Friday) and support absolutely all iPhone from this network, including the 6 and 6 Plus ! This is a new exclusive service from UnlockBase Server, all we need is the IMEI of your iPhone and it will be registered as “Unlocked” on iTunes server (Permanent Factory Unlock).

There are two services available depending of the model of your iPhone:

Tigo El Salvador – iPhone 2G, 3G, 3GS, 4 and 4S – [Tool ID: 762]
Tigo El Salvador – iPhone 5, 5S, 5C, 6 and 6 Plus – [Tool ID: 763]

You can check our prices on our Wholesale Unlock Pricing page.



All products, and company names, logos, and service marks (collectively the "Trademarks") displayed are registered® and/or unregistered trademarks™ of their respective owners. The authors of this web site are not sponsored by or affiliated with any of the third-party trade mark or third-party registered trade mark owners, and make no representations about them, their owners, their products or services.
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