May 5, 2025

What is iPhone Telco Lock? How to Fix?

📱 What Is Telco Lock and How to Fix It? [Complete Guide]

The Problem

Have you ever inserted a SIM card into your iPhone and received the message “SIM Not Supported” or “Invalid SIM”? This usually means the iPhone is telco locked – it can only be used with a specific mobile network provider (carrier). This often surprises buyers who unknowingly purchase a locked iPhone, especially from overseas or online sellers.

Common Symptoms of Telco Lock

  • Your iPhone shows “SIM Not Supported” after inserting a SIM card.

  • No mobile signal, even after restarting or resetting network settings.

  • iPhone only works with one specific carrier (e.g. AT&T, SoftBank, Verizon).

  • Cannot activate iPhone after factory reset using a different SIM card.

What Causes Telco Lock?

  1. Carrier Contract Purchases
    iPhones bought under contract from telcos (like Maxis, AT&T, SoftBank) are locked to that carrier until the contract is complete.

  2. Carrier Subsidies
    Some telcos offer cheaper iPhones in exchange for a SIM lock, restricting usage to their own network.

  3. Imported or Refurbished Devices
    Many imported iPhones from the U.S. or Japan are telco locked but sold cheaply online without clear warnings.

✅ What Is Telco Lock and How to Fix It?

Step 1: Check if Your iPhone Is Telco Locked

Option A: Through iPhone Settings
Go to: Settings > General > About
Scroll down to Carrier Lock (or Network Provider Lock).

  • If it says “No SIM restrictions” → Your iPhone is unlocked.

  • If it says “SIM locked” or names a carrier → Your iPhone is telco locked.

Option B: Try Different SIM Cards
Insert a SIM card from another carrier.

  • If the iPhone shows “SIM Not Supported”, it’s locked to a specific telco.

Option C: Use IMEI Checker Tools

  • Dial *#06# to get your IMEI.

  • Use an IMEI checking service (free or paid) to find out the telco lock status and carrier details.

Step 2: How to Fix Telco Lock

1. Contact the Original Carrier
If you know the original telco (e.g. AT&T, SoftBank), you can request an official unlock. Most carriers will unlock the phone if the contract has ended or the phone is fully paid.

2. Use Third-Party Unlocking Services
There are services available online that offer permanent unlocks by IMEI. Be cautious and only choose trusted providers.

3. Avoid Jailbreak or Gevey SIM
These are outdated or risky methods that can damage your device or void your warranty. Always go for official or IMEI-based unlocks.

💡 Don’t Want the Hassle? Let Us Help!

At Magista Studio, we offer:
✅ Fast iPhone carrier lock checks
✅ Reliable IMEI-based unlock services
✅ Honest consultation before buying used or imported iPhones

 

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