How to unlock your iPhone
Determine which type of lock has been placed on your iPhone (blacklisted, iCloud activation lock or finance lock). Then, use the appropriate method to unlock it:Not sure if your phone is blacklisted? Here’s how to find out |
Remove iCloud activation lock: If you have your proof of purchase, an Apple Store can help you remove the lock. If you don’t have your proof of purchase, you can try software like dr.fone or pay an iCloud activation lock removal service like DoctorUnlock.
Remove a finance lock: Pay off your iPhone or switch to a carrier that will pay your balance and/or early termination fees. Alternatively, see if you can get out of your phone contract.
Another option is to transfer your phone and contract to someone else. This isn’t the same as unlocking your phone, but it can eliminate payments and free up funds. If you no longer need your phone, you can even sell your locked iPhone online.
Remove your iPhone from the blacklist: If your iPhone was blacklisted in error, you can ask your carrier to have it removed. If that doesn’t work, or your iPhone was reported lost or stolen, you can try an iPhone blacklist removal service like IMEI Authority.
Did you know? Even locked phones can be worth $100+. Find the value of your phone.
iPhone | Samsung | |
OnePlus | LG | Motorola |
PHONE | UNLOCKED | FINANCED LOCK | BLACKLISTED | iCLOUD ACTIVATION LOCKED |
iPhone XS Max | $275 | $275 | $245 | $60 |
iPhone XS | $200 | $200 | $170 | $30 |
iPhone XR | $195 | $195 | $175 | $15 |
iPhone X | $170 | $170 | $150 | $35 |
iPhone 8 Plus | $130 | $130 | $110 | $25 |
iPhone 8 | $90 | $90 | $70 | $15 |
iPhone 7 Plus | $95 | $95 | $85 | $10 |
iPhone 7 | $40 | $40 | $30 | – |