Since 2010, Anatel allows unlocking a cell phone for all cell phone operators, free of charge. In fact, operators are OBLIGATED to allow the user to choose the chip of their telephone operator that they want.
In this case, for those who want to unlock a smartphone, the main recommendation is to do the procedure via an operator: through a store or over the phone. On the other hand, those who want to do the process without help, need to follow the step by step below.
So, see below how to unlock your cell phone for any carrier. Also, we are going to show you how you can unlock a SIM if you have an old model locked.
How to unlock an Android smartphone?
Below, see the step by step on how to unlock an Android phone:
- Download and install the WorldUnlock Codes Calculator (This program is a calculator that generates an unlock code);
- Then type *#06# on your cell phone and wait for the serial number (IMEI) of your device to appear;
- Right after, in the downloaded app, choose the manufacturer and model of your smartphone. Also, add the IMEI, select your country and your operator;
- Then tap Calculate;
- Once this is done, a code will appear on the right side of the screen. Write it down;
- Turn off the smartphone, remove the operator’s chip and turn it on again;
- Finally, enter the code obtained.
Ready! Your cell phone is now unlocked. And if an error occurs in the procedure, do not try to use the codes more than 5 times. Otherwise, it may crash your cell phone. Therefore, be very careful when using this manual unlocking method.
How to unlock a carrier chip?
Below, see how to unlock a SIM card from the main operators in Brazil:
VIVO
You can unlock a Vivo SIM via internet, on the website of the Meu Vivo self-service service. For that:
- Access the Meu Vivo portal;
- Then do your login;
- Afterwards, access the service channel to request reactivation.
In addition, it is possible to unlock the Vivo chip via connection. For that:
- Call from your Vivo number to *8486 and follow the instructions.
- Call to 1058 from any other phone to unlock the SIM card.
Or, you can go to a physical store from Vivo, to reactivate and unlock your SIM card. In this case, do not forget to take with you an official document with a photo and your telephone number that you want to reactivate.
CLEAR
To unlock a SIM card, you need to go to a store physical from the operator. In this case, do not forget to take an original document with a photo with you. And remember: only the owner of the line can do the procedure.
TIM
To unlock the TIM chip, you must contact the operator. Contact can be via telephone.
- call the number *144 from another Tim number and talk to an attendant;
- Call the Call Center at the number 1056 from any mobile or landline.
Also, you can go to a physical store closest, and talk to a TIM attendant, to unlock it.
Finally, it is possible to access the online portal Meu TIM, and call the virtual assistant, located at the bottom of the page. And remember: only the account holder can do this procedure.