In 2024, Tips And Tricks To Tell if Your iPhone 8 Is Unlocked

In 2024, Tips And Tricks To Tell if Your iPhone 8 Is Unlocked

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Tips And Tricks To Tell if Your Apple iPhone 8 Is Unlocked

Are you wondering how to confirm if your Apple iPhone 8 is unlocked? Many iPhones are locked to a specific network. It limits their usability and can even decrease their value for a potential buyer.

The article explores how you can tell if an iPhone is unlocked. A few methods exist to verify, ranging from checking settings to inserting a different SIM card. Let’s dive into the steps to check to see if the Apple iPhone 8 is unlocked. Ensure you’re getting the most out of your device. Explore the page to learn more.

standing woman holding her smartphone

Part I. 4 Ways To Check if Apple iPhone 8 Is Unlocked

Are you unsure whether your Apple iPhone 8 is unlocked or not? Here are four different methods to check to see if your Apple iPhone 8 is unlocked.

Way 1: Check if Your Apple iPhone 8 Is Unlocked in Settings

The first method involves checking your Apple iPhone 8’s settings to see if it’s unlocked. Here’s how:

  • Step 1: Open the Settings app on your Apple iPhone 8. Scroll down and tap on General >About.

iphone settings menu

  • Step 2: Look for an option labeled Carrier Lock. It should say No SIM Restrictions. If it displays a different info, then your Apple iPhone 8 is locked.

network provider lock details

Way 2: Check if Your Apple iPhone 8 Is Unlocked Using a Different SIM Card

Another way to check to see if your Apple iPhone 8 is unlocked is using a different SIM card. Here’s what you need to do:

  • Step 1: Power off your Apple iPhone 8 by pressing and holding the power button. Use a SIM ejector tool (or a paperclip) to remove your current SIM card.

man using pincher on sim tray

  • Step 2: Insert a SIM card from another carrier into the SIM card tray. Power on your Apple iPhone 8 and wait for it to detect the new SIM card. Your Apple iPhone 8 is unlocked if you can make calls or access mobile data with the new SIM card.

Way 3: Check if Your Apple iPhone 8 Is Unlocked Online

You can also check to see if your Apple iPhone 8 is unlocked using online tools provided by some carriers or third-party services. Follow the steps:

  • Step 1: Visit your carrier’s website or a reputable third-party unlocking service.
  • Step 2: Enter your Apple iPhone 8’s IMEI number, which you can find by dialing *#06# or in the Settings app under General > About. Follow the instructions provided to check your Apple iPhone 8’s unlock status.

Way 4: Contact Your Carrier

You can always contact your carrier if you’re still unsure about your Apple iPhone 8’s unlock status. Here’s what you should do:

  • Step 1: Locate the customer support number for your carrier or visit their website.
  • Step 2: Call the customer support line or initiate a live chat session. Provide your Apple iPhone 8’s IMEI number and ask the representative to check if your Apple iPhone 8 is unlocked.

By following these four methods, you can verify if your Apple iPhone 8 is unlocked or not.

Unlocking your Apple iPhone 8 is both safe and legal. This is due to laws such as the Unlocking Consumer Choice and Wireless Competition Act.

blonde woman using iphone while sitting

  • The Unlocking Consumer Choice and Wireless Competition Act

This legislation, passed in 2014, legalized unlocking cell phones, including iPhones, in the United States. It enables consumers to unlock their devices to switch between carriers or use international SIM cards. The Act reflects the government’s acknowledgment of the importance of consumer rights and competition in the wireless industry.

  • Promoting C onsumer Rights

Unlocking iPhones aligns with fundamental consumer rights, including the right to choose how to use one’s purchased device. By allowing users to unlock their iPhones, consumers have greater control over their devices. They can make informed choices about their wireless service providers.

  • Encouraging Device Versatility

Unlocking iPhones encourages device versatility by using them with various carriers. Users can take advantage of better coverage, pricing, or features without being restricted by carrier locks.

Part 3. How To Unlock an iPhone To Use a Different Carrier

Unlocking your Apple iPhone 8 to use it with a different carrier opens up a world of possibilities. There are several methods to unlock your Apple iPhone 8. Here are three popular methods:

Method 1: Contact Your Carrier

The simplest way to unlock your Apple iPhone 8 is by contacting your carrier. Most carriers offer unlocking services if you’ve fulfilled your contract or paid off your device. Here’s how to do it:

  • Step 1: Call your carrier’s customer service or visit their website. Request an unlock for your Apple iPhone 8.
  • Step 2: Provide the necessary information, such as your IMEI number. Follow any additional instructions provided by your carrier.

Method 2: Use a Dedicated iPhone Unlock Tool

Another effective method is using a dedicated iPhone unlock tool like Wondershare Dr.Fone . This software offers a straightforward solution to unlock your Apple iPhone 8 so you can use it with any carrier. Here are the key strengths of the platform:

dr.fone main menu

  • Unlock the SIM lock on any iPhone and any carrier. Dr.Fone supports unlocking SIM locks on various iPhone models and works with all carriers worldwide.
  • **Compatible with the latest iOS.**It stays updated with the latest iOS versions, ensuring compatibility with the newest iPhone models.
  • **High-success rate.**Fone boasts a high success rate in unlocking iPhones, making it a reliable choice for users.

How To Unlock an iPhone Using Dr.Fone

Now, let’s walk through the steps of using Dr.Fone to unlock your Apple iPhone 8:

  • Step 1: Download Dr.Fone and install it on your computer. Launch the application. Click Toolbox > Screen Unlock > iOS to start the process. From the next window, click on the Remove SIM Locked option.

dr.fone remove sim locked option

  • Step 2: You will be redirected to another window. Follow the on-screen instructions and click on Unlock Now. Once clicked, a bar will display on the interface, showing the progress of the unlocking process.

dr.fone unlock now option

  • Step 3: Wait for the unlocking process to finish. Click the Done button when the app has successfully removed the SIM lock. If you encounter any issues, click the contact us for help button to get redirected to support.

dr.fone sim unlocking done

Method 3: Use an Online Carrier Unlocking Service

While many online carrier unlocking services are available, they come with advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages

  • Wide compatibility. Online services often support a wide range of iPhone models and carriers.
  • You can unlock your Apple iPhone 8 from the comfort of your home without additional software or tools.
  • Speed. Some online services offer fast turnaround times, allowing you to unlock your Apple iPhone 8 quickly.

Disadvantages

  • Reliability concerns. Not all online services are reliable, and there’s a risk of encountering scams or unreliable providers.
  • Security risk. Sharing your IMEI number and other personal information with online services can pose a security risk.
  • **Limited success rate.**Some online services may not be able to unlock all iPhone models or carriers, leading to a limited success rate.

Conclusion

Knowing how to tell if your Apple iPhone 8 is unlocked is essential for maximizing its potential. The article discussed various methods to verify its unlock status. These include checking settings, using different SIM cards, and contacting your carrier. It has also explored three methods to unlock iPhones.

All methods work with varying degrees of success, but Dr.Fone is the most reliable option. With Dr. Fone’s high success rate, you can easily unlock your Apple iPhone 8. If you’ve Googled the question “**How can I tell if my iPhone is unlocked,**” Dr.Fone ensures your Apple iPhone 8 is ready for any carrier.

Tips: Are you searching for a powerful Screen Unlock tool? No worries as Dr.Fone is here to help you. Download it and start a seamless unlock experience!

How to Unlock Apple iPhone 8 with/without SIM Card

It has become quite easy to unlock a device and be able to use it on any network you choose. This is because carriers are increasingly allowing users to unlock their devices and even offering them to codes they need.

In this article, we are going to look at how to unlock your device with or without the SIM Card. This is the complete guide on how to unlock the sim card iPhone. Let’s begin with what to do if you have a SIM card from your carrier.

But if your Apple iPhone 8 has bad ESN or has been blacklisted, you can check the other post to see what to do if you have a blacklisted iPhone .

Part 1: How to Unlock your Apple iPhone 8 with SIM Card

Begin by seeing if your carrier offers to unlock. Apple advises that you only unlock your device using this method. So if you haven’t already asked them, contact your carrier so they can initiate the unlocking process and provide the unlock code for you. This process normally takes up to 7 days so only come back to the next section of this tutorial after your device has been unlocked by the carrier.

Step 1: Once the carrier confirms that the Apple iPhone 8 device has been unlocked, remove your SIM card and insert the new SIM card you would like to use.

Step 2: Complete the normal setup process and when prompted choose to “Restore from iCloud Backup.” Tap Next to enter your Apple ID and Password and then select a backup to restore the Apple iPhone 8 device to.

unlock iPhone with SIM card

This may take some time depending on how much data you have on your iCloud backup as well as the speed of your internet connection.

Part 2: How to Unlock your Apple iPhone 8 without SIM Card

If on the other hand you don’t have a SIM card for your device complete the following process after your Carrier confirms that your

phone has been unlocked, you can follow the instruction below to complete the unlocking process.

Begin by Backing up your Apple iPhone 8

You can choose to backup you device either via iCloud or in iTunes. For the purpose of this tutorial, we are going to use iTunes.

Step 1: launch iTunes and then connect the Apple iPhone 8 to your computer. Select your device when it appears and then click “Backup Now.”

unlock iPhone without SIM card

Erase the Apple iPhone 8 device

Once your backup is complete, erase the Apple iPhone 8 device completely. Here’s how to do it.

Go to Settings> General> Reset> Erase All contents and settings

unlock iPhone with/without SIM card

You may be required to enter your passcode to confirm the process and it may take some time for the Apple iPhone 8 to be completely erased.

Restore the iPhone

When you completely erase the Apple iPhone 8 device, you will go back to the set-up screen. Complete the setup process and then follow these simple steps to restore the iPhone.

Step 1: Launch iTunes on your computer and then connect the Apple iPhone 8 device. Select the Apple iPhone 8 device when it appears and then select “restore Backup in iTunes.”

unlock iPhone without SIM card

Step 2: Select the backup you want to restore and then click “restore” and wait for the process to complete. Keep the Apple iPhone 8 device connected until the process is complete.

unlock iPhone without SIM card

Whenever you need to go aboard or want to change to a cheaper carrier provider, you need to SIM unlock your Apple iPhone 8 first. Dr.Fone - Sim Unlock SIM Unlock Service can help you perfectly in this case. It can SIM unlock your Apple iPhone 8 permanently and most importantly, it will not violate your phone’s warranty. The whole unlocking process does not require any technical skills. Everyone can manage it easily.

Dr.Fone - Sim Unlock (iOS)

Fast SIM Unlock for iPhone

  • Supports almost all carriers, from Vodafone to Sprint.
  • Finish SIM unlock in just a few minutes
  • Provide detailed guides for users.
  • Fully compatible with iPhone XR\SE2\Xs\Xs Max\11 series\12 series\13series.

3981454 people have downloaded it

How to use Dr.Fone SIM Unlock Service

Step 1. Download Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock and click on “Remove SIM Locked”.

screen unlock agreement

Step 2. Start authorization verification process to continue. Make sure your Apple iPhone 8 has connected to the computer. Click on “Confirmed” for the next step.

authorization

Step 3. Your device will get a configuration profile. Then follow the guides to unlock screen. Select “Next” to continue.

screen unlock agreement

Step 4. Turn off the popup page and go to “Settings-> Profile Downloaded”. Then choose “Install” and type your screen passcode.

screen unlock agreement

Step 5. Select “Install” on the top right and then click the button again at the bottom. After finishing the install, turn to “Settings->General”.

screen unlock agreement

Next, detailed steps will show on your Apple iPhone 8 screen, just follow them! And Dr.Fone will provide “Remove Setting” services for you after the SIM lock is removed to enable Wi-Fi as normal. Visit the iPhone SIM Unlock guide to learn more.

Part 4: How to SIM Unlock Your Apple iPhone 8 with iPhone IMEI

iPhone IMEI is another online SIM unlocking service, especially for iPhones. It can help you SIM unlock your Apple iPhone 8 without SIM card or unlocking code from the carrier. The unlocking service privided by iPhone IMEI are Official iPhone unlocks, permanent and lifetime warranted!

unlock iphone with iphoneimei.net

On iPhone IMEI official website, just select your Apple iPhone 8 model and the network carrier your iphone is locked to, it will direct you to another page. Once you have followed the page instruction to finish the order, iPhone IMEI will submit your Apple iPhone 8 IMEI to the carrier provider and whitelist your device from the Apple database. It usually takes 1-5 days. After it’s unlocked, you will receive an email notification.

Part 5: How to Update an Unlocked iPhone without SIM

Once you have completed the unlock you can go ahead and conduct a software update on your Apple iPhone 8. To do this on an unlocked device without the SIM card, you need to update the Apple iPhone 8 device via iTunes. Here’s how to do it.

Step 1: Launch iTunes on your computer and then connect the Apple iPhone 8 via USB cables. Select “My iPhone” under the Apple iPhone 8 devices menu.

Step 2: a browser screen will appear displaying the contents in the main window. Click on “Check for Update” under the Summary tab.

unlock iPhone with/without SIM card

Step 3: If an update is available, a dialogue box will appear. Click the “Download and Update: button in the dialogue box and iTunes will show a confirmation message that the update is complete and it is safe to disconnect the Apple iPhone 8 device.

Part 6: YouTube Video for How to Unlock an iPhone

We have outlined Apple’s recommended method of unlocking your device. There are a lot of other ways to unlock your device although having your carrier do it for you is the safest way to do it. However, if you decide to do it, follow the tutorial above to set up your device and update it via iTunes before you can start using it with the new carrier’s SIM card.

How To Unlock Apple iPhone 8: Official Method to Unlock Your Apple iPhone 8

Restriction on the use of a SIM card by a carrier often creates a lot of problems. The barrier that you can’t use another company’s SIM somehow makes you feel like you’re not the only owner of the phone. But you don’t need to worry anymore because you are in the right place to know about the way use to unlock your Apple iPhone 8.

This article is about the official way to get your Apple iPhone 8 unlocked from your carrier. But we also have a solution if you want to avoid contacting your carrier.

Part 1: What Should You Do Before Apple iPhone 8 SIM Unlock?

Before unlocking your Apple iPhone 8 from the carrier, you should fulfill the following criteria.

1. No Due Before Unlocking

When iPhone users sign contracts with a giant cell phone company for a certain amount of time, they often get a discount on a device. Because of this, the Apple iPhone 8 device comes with a controller lock so customers can only use it on their network.

So, if you’ve paid off your contract or bought your Apple iPhone 8 without a subsidy, it’s perfectly legal to unlock it. But if you’re still paying off your contract, you still need to own the Apple iPhone 8 fully, so you should confirm with your carrier before unlocking it.

2. You Should Buy It for More Than the Time Limit in the Contract

You can leave without paying anything if your agreement with the company is over. If you signed a contract in exchange for a lower price upfront, you would have to wait until your contract ended (usually 24 months) or pay the remaining balance if you bought your phone on a payment plan.

Examples: Requirements of Sim Unlock of T-Mobile/EE/AT&T

T-Mobile, EE, and AT&T have common requirements before you can unlock your Apple iPhone 8.

  • It has to be legal. It means the Apple iPhone 8 device has not been reported as lost, stolen, or linked to a crime.
  • Your bank account shouldn’t have any debts.
  • If you signed a contract in exchange for a lower price upfront, you would have to wait until your contract was up (usually 24 months) or pay the remaining balance if you bought your phone on a payment plan.

Apart from the requirements mentioned above, each company has its way of unlocking.

T-Mobile

t mobile

Following are the unlocking requirements of T-Mobile.

  • In the past year, fewer than two SIM unlock codes have been asked for on each individual.
  • The device had been connected to the T-Mobile network for at least 40 days before the request to unlock it was made.
  • You have a service contract and have paid for at least 18 months in a row, or you paid a fee for moving. Customer Service can tell you more about a few special situations if you need to.
  • The phone’s prepaid plan must have at least $50 worth of recharges paid for.
  • If you meet the above requirements, you can call customer service at 611 from the Apple iPhone 8 device you want to unlock to unlock an iPhone 11 or 12 that is locked to a T-Mobile network.
  • When you call about tips, make sure you have ALL of the following:
  1. The main account holder’s phone number
  2. Account Password
  3. Account holder’s SSN’s last four digits
  4. IMEI number. You can find this by navigating Settings > General > About or dialing *#06#.

AT&T

att

Following are the unlocking requirements of AT&T.

  • Customers can unlock up to five devices per year if their account is in great condition.
  • The full name of the person whose name is on the account.
  • The last four digits of the account holder’s social security number.
  • The AT&T passcode of the registered account owner if they have an online account.
  • The iPhone’s IMEI number is 11/12. The IMEI number is the same thing as the serial number. You can find it on the original packaging, under the battery, or on the back of some models by dialing #06 or going to Settings > General > About.

EE

ee

Following are the unlocking requirements of EE.

  • EE will only unlock pay-per-month phones after six months.
  • You need to call 150 from your EE phone. If you are still under contract, you will be charged £8.99. But if your contract is up, it’s free.
  • EE will unlock the Apple iPhone 8 immediately; there is no waiting period. If you didn’t buy the phone from EE, you’d have to pay £8.99. If that’s the case, there’s no fee.

Part 2: 2 Ways to Remove SIM Lock on Apple iPhone 8

Way 1: Contact Your Carrier for Apple iPhone 8 SIM Unlock

So, if you fulfill the above requirements, you can contact your carrier and request them to unlock your sim Lock restriction. Follow the steps below to contact your carrier.

Get the IMEI code on your phone.

First of all, get the IMEI code on your Apple iPhone 8. The serial number and the IMEI number are the same things. You can find it on the original box, on the back of some models, under the battery, by dialing #06 or going to Settings > General > About.

general

imei in about

Contact the service provider for unlock request.

Now you have to contact the service provider for an unlocking request. For this, Go to the official site of your service provider and send them an unlocking request or call on their helpline. They will ask you for the IMEI number of your Apple iPhone 8 and then guide you through the different processes. The unlocking request may take a few days.

If all goes well, you can get the unlock code.

After receiving the unlocking request, the company will pass the request through all the parameters. If everything goes according to company policy, the company will e-mail an unlock code. You will have to enter the code into your mobile.

Insert the SIM card from the new carrier and enter the unlock code

The unlock code may be 8 to 16 digits long. Follow the steps to enter unlock code.

sim not supported

  • Switch off your Apple iPhone 8
  • Remove your existing sim card and insert the sim card of a network other than your carrier.
  • Turn on the mobile, and a window will pop up, asking you to enter the unlock code.
  • Enter the unlock code provided by the carrier company.
  • Now your Apple iPhone 8 x is officially unlocked, you are free to use any sim card on your device.

Way 2: Easy App for Apple iPhone 8 SIM Unlock

If you don’t want to call your carrier to unlock your Apple iPhone 8, you should find an easy way to unlock your Apple iPhone 8 and run like a normal factory-unlocked iPhone. Your search will end here because I’ll tell you about Software that will help you unlock your Apple iPhone 8 without losing any data.

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS)

Unlock your Apple iPhone 8 from any network in various scenarios

  • Unlock Face ID, Touch ID, Apple ID without password.
  • Bypass the iCloud activation lock without hassle.New icon
  • Remove iPhone carrier restrictions for unlimited usage.
  • No tech knowledge required, Simple, click-through, process.

3,981,454 people have downloaded it

Step1: Download and install the Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) from our website.

Step2: Run Wondershare Dr.Fone. In its interface, choose “Screen Unlock.” Don’t go to wrong branches.

Step3: In the following window, select “Remove SIM Locked” to unlock the network on your device.

unlock iphone xr

Step4: When your iOS device is prepared to be SIM unlocked, tap “Start”.

start to remove

Step5: After the connection between the 2 devices, you will see the information about your Apple iPhone 8 on the software screen. If all is right, you can go on the process with “Unlock Now”.

unlocking information

Step6: Dr.Fone gives a jailbreak guide and a video tutorial to finish the jailbreak step. Without jailbreak, it’s impossible to keep the removal process.

jailbreak guide

Step7: The instructions below are about how to put your SIM card out and reinsert it. Moreover, it’ll help you to modify the network settings.

unlock iphone x

Step8: This step will continue automatically. The only thing you should do is wait for the progress bar.

Step9: The device is no longer under the hands of the SIM carrier because it has been unlocked. To release the SIM card in your iOS device, select “Done.”

removed

Final Comments

So, that’s all about unlocking Apple iPhone 8 by your carrier. You can easily request your carrier to unlock your Apple iPhone 8 if you perfectly fall on their criteria. However, in some situations, if you want to avoid contacting your carrier, you can still unlock your Apple iPhone 8. Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) is one of the most reliable and easy Software that unlocks your device by following very easy steps.


  • Title: In 2024, Tips And Tricks To Tell if Your iPhone 8 Is Unlocked
  • Author: Abner
  • Created at : 2024-04-05 18:16:27
  • Updated at : 2024-04-07 13:31:45
  • Link: https://sim-unlock.techidaily.com/in-2024-tips-and-tricks-to-tell-if-your-iphone-8-is-unlocked-by-drfone-ios/
  • License: This work is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.
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In 2024, Tips And Tricks To Tell if Your iPhone 8 Is Unlocked