Hello Everyone, 

Ever wanted to unchain your GSM mobile phone? 

This can be done but only to the extent that the phone can be “unlocked” and used on any GSM network.  As far as “unbranding”, I cannot speak to that. I do know that once the phone is unlocked, you will be able to use it on either T-Mobile or AT&T, if living in the USA.

The following warning is from A T & T:
“Caution: If this process is unsuccessful five times in a row, the phone will be permanently locked to the AT&T network. Do not attempt to enter the code more than one (1) time total.  Instructions below will assist you in unlocking your device, if these steps are unsuccessful please contact us at:  (800) 331-0500 or (916) 843-4685 from overseas.”

1.
To unlock your A T & T Wireless GSM phone you will need two items.  These two items include the phone’s Unlock Code and a SIM card from the network to which you plan to switch.  In the USA, therefore, you cannot unlock your A T & T wireless phone unless you are in possession of a T-Mobile SIM card or vice versa.

Once upon a time, for example, I simply borrowed a friend’s SIM card, from a competing GSM wireless provider, in order to unlock my phone.  After successfully unlocking the device, I returned the SIM card to her. 

You can easily obtain your phone’s Unlock Code by calling your wireless providers customer support number.  Both A T & T and T-Mobile are very good about immediately releasing these codes. 

2.
Assuming that you have both the phone’s unlock code and a SIM card from a different wireless provider than your own, while your locked phone is powered off, remove its original SIM card.

3.
Now insert the SIM card from the second provider into the phone.

4.
Turn on the phone and allow it to fully power up.

5.
The phone will prompt you to enter an unlock code.

6.
Enter the phone’s unlock code given to you by your original wireless provider.

7.
Press the Soft Key indicated by the onscreen label “OK”.

The device should now be unlocked

It’s so easy.  So go ahead and unchain your phone. 

Until Next Time,

Mark