What is Simlock?

Mobile phones and smartphones with a SIM lock are particularly cheap. But what is it anyway? We show you what’s behind it.

Watch out: mobile phones with SIM lock

“Simlock” stands for “Subscriber Identity Module” and is a restriction code:

• Smartphones with a SIM lock are tied to a specific mobile network or also to a specific SIM card and a tariff.

• For this reason, the smartphone can also be offered to you at a lower price. The mobile operator earns from the higher mobile costs.

• As a rule, you can request a free unlock code for your smartphone from your provider after two years (or after the minimum contract period has expired). After that, you can also use the mobile phone with the SIM card of another mobile phone provider.

• Tip: If you buy a used smartphone (for example, on Ebay), you should always make sure that it does not have a SIM lock. If in doubt, ask the seller specifically about it.

Remove simlock – here’s how

• The mobile phone provider can also unlock the smartphone before the time limit expires. However, this involves costs of around 100 euros.

” or which you can usually find under the battery.
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