How to unlock your Three UK phone

Getting a smartphone directly from a network carrier has its advantages. However, this also means that the device is locked to that particular network, making it a chore to switch networks or use the phone when traveling. The good news is that it isn’t nearly as much of a hassle as it used to be to get a phone unlocked. Here’s how to unlock your Three U.K. phone!

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Is your Three phone already unlocked?

It’s very likely that the phone you’ve bought from Three is already unlocked. Any device that the network carrier has sold since January 1, 2014, isn’t locked to the network. If you bought a device before that (here are some great options worth upgrading to), the rest of this guide is for you.

How to unlock your Three phone

Three has made the phone unlocking process very simple. All you have to do is fill out the device unlock form.

• You’ll need to provide the phone’s IMEI number. Dial *#06#* to find it. Alternatively, you can also go to Settings > About Device > Status > IMEI information (The steps may differ slightly depending on the phone).
• If you don’t have a Three account, you’ll need to get one. The best way to get an account is to buy a SIM card. You can order a free Pay As You Go SIM online, or you can buy one from a local Three store for 1.99 pounds. You can then use those account details to fill in the form.
• Make sure that your personal details like your name and address match up exactly to what you see on your bill. They have to be the details of the account owner. If they don’t match, Three may not be able to unlock your device.

How long will it take and how much does it cost?

You will be able to unlock the phone for free. Once you fill out the form, an unlock code and further instructions will be sent to you within 72 hours. In a few cases, it may take up to 10 days for you to receive the code if the network needs to contact the device manufacturer to get the code. You will be informed if there’s a delay.

That’s everything you need to know about how to unlock a Three phone! Be sure to check out more U.K. content below.