Unlocked phones are the best option for people to purchase since they give a lot of flexibility when it comes to switching service providers. Many unlocked phones are in the market, but it takes some precision to identify an unlocked phone if you don’t buy it from an authorized retailer. No service provider will accept a locked phone unless it is locked on their network in the US. This leads us to the question of whether you can i use an unlocked phone with Verizon.
Using an unlocked phone with Verizon is very much possible, but some conditions are to be met. Aside from the phone being unlocked, it must be compatible with the network, meaning it requires using the same network technology. A Verizon Wireless compatible phone is the only unlocked phone which will work with the Verizon network. There are several ways users can unlock a form, and the FCC has made it easier to unlock phones with the new regulations.
This article aims to cover the process of unlocking a phone on the Verizon network. We aim to touchdown on taking phone compatibility and knowing whether the device is locked or unlocked; we will also evaluate other factors to consider when bringing your unlock device to Verizon.
Checking The Phone Compatibility on Verizon
Users who bring their phones to Verizon Wireless have required checking on phone compatibility. This process is mainly done using an IMEI checker, a tool offered by Verizon, and will help check phone compatibility.
To get the IMEI number, dial *#06#, and you will receive a prompt displaying the IMEI number. The next step will be to write it down or copy and paste it on the Verizon Wireless website. The IMEI number is a tool that displays information about the device. The process takes only a few seconds, and you will receive a prompt on whether the device is compatible or not. If the device is compatible, you can proceed to purchase a Verizon Wireless phone plan.
If the device is proven to be not compatible, you may be required to bring in a new device or purchase one from their store at an affordable price. This process applies to users who wish to bring their phones to the Verizon network.
Strategy to know If a phone is unlocked
There are two types of fonts which range between unlocked or locked phones. Unlocked phones can work with any service provider, while locked phones work with only a single service provider.
You can know whether the phone is unlocked by placing a new sim card on the device. If the sim card works, then the device is unlocked. If the sim card declines, you will know the device is locked and needs to be unlocked.
Some devices may require you to provide a network password to use another SIM card; such phones are seen to be unlocked, and only the service provider may issue you with an unlocking password. If you bought the phone on credit, this password may not be offered, and you have not completed paying up the balance.
Ways to unlock a phone on the Verizon network
There are several ways in which you can unlock a phone on the Verizon network and include the following:
i) Using unlocking codes
These are codes that can be purchased online and help in unlocking phones. Because it can be purchased at around $7.00, or in some cases, you may find them for free. This option applies to users who are indebted to the service provider in cannot meet their payments. It is also required to activate a new sim card on Verizon.
ii) Service provider unlocking the device
The service provider may help in unlocking the phone if it meets specific terms. In most cases, you are required to complete the total payments of the device for each to be unlocked. Some service providers may work with Verizon Wireless and unlock the device to you under unique terms.
Suppose the device cannot be unlocked. The best option will be to opt for their Verizon EBB program, which offers free phones and plans to users who qualify. I use me qualified through participation in federal assistance programs or low to no income at all.
Steps to use an unlocked phone with verizon
Below are specific guidelines to follow on how to use an unlocked phone on the Verizon network.
Step 1: Check phone eligibility
The first step is taking phone eligibility. This section requires you to evaluate whether the phone has been used for any fraudulent activities. Contact your local authority or visit the nearest service provider stores to inquire.
The phone should never have been reported stolen or lost. These devices are known to have legal issues and maybe into trouble with your service provider or authorities.
Step 2: Check phone compatibility
Taking phone compatibility is essential since there are different network technologies in the market. If the phone works with GSM network technology and is unlocked, you may bring it to the network. However, you are subjected to check on phone compatibility before bringing the device.
Step 3: Choose a cell phone plan
Here you are required to choose a cell phone plan. Several Verizon wireless deals for existing and new customers offer exciting discounts on cell phone plans. You may also get a free phone plan from Verizon if you opt for the Verizon EBB program.
Step 4: Activation
Once everything is in place, you can activate the phone and sim card by logging into your Verizon wireless account.
Final Verdict
Using an unlocked phone on the Verizon network is possible. The phone, however, needs to be compatible with the Verizon Wireless network. Once the phone is compatible, you’ll need to follow the BYOP process, and if the device is not compatible, you may be required to purchase a new phone at their store or from marketplaces like Amazon.
