# **How to Unlock Your AT&T Phone**
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Unlocking your AT&T phone allows you to use it with other carriers, domestically and internationally. Below is a **detailed guide** on how to unlock your AT&T phone, along with answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs). [ππππππππππ]
## **How to Unlock Your AT&T Phone**
### **Step 1: Check if Your Phone is Eligible for Unlocking**
Before submitting a request, ensure your phone meets AT&Tβs unlock requirements:
β **The device must be paid off completely** (installments or contract must be fulfilled). [ππππππππππ]
β **The device must not be reported as lost, stolen, or involved in fraud.**
β **The account linked to the device must be in good standing.**
β **The device must have been active on AT&Tβs network for a minimum period:**
- **Postpaid devices:** At least 60 days (with no past due or unpaid balance).
- **Prepaid devices:** At least six months of continuous service.
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### **Step 2: Submit an Unlock Request**
To request an unlock, follow these steps:
1οΈβ£ **Go to AT&Tβs Unlock Portal:**
- Visit [AT&T Device Unlock Portal](https://www.att.com/deviceunlock/)
2οΈβ£ **Enter Your Device Information:**
- Provide the IMEI number (Dial *#06# to find it).
- Fill in the requested details (phone number, account details).
3οΈβ£ **Confirm Your Request:**
- AT&T will send you an email to confirm your unlock request.
- Click the link in the email within 24 hours to proceed.
4οΈβ£ **Wait for Approval:**
- AT&T typically processes requests within **24β48 hours**.
- If approved, youβll receive instructions to unlock your device.
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### **Step 3: Complete the Unlock Process**
After AT&T approves your unlock request, follow the instructions:
π± **For iPhones:**
- Simply insert a new SIM card from a different carrier.
- If the phone does not automatically unlock, back up and restore the device via iTunes.
π± **For Android Phones:**
- Insert the new SIM card and enter the unlock code provided by AT&T.
- Restart your device.
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## **FAQs About AT&T Phone Unlocking**
### **1. How long does it take for AT&T to unlock my phone?**
It usually takes **24 to 48 hours** for AT&T to process the request. However, delays may occur if your account has outstanding balances.
### **2. What if I donβt receive the unlock approval email?**
- Check your spam or junk mail folder.
- If you did not confirm the request within **24 hours**, youβll need to submit a new one.
### **3. Can I unlock a phone that I bought from someone else?**
Yes, but the phone must meet AT&Tβs unlock criteria, including being fully paid off and not reported as lost or stolen.
### **4. Do I need to be an AT&T customer to unlock a phone?**
No. Even if you purchased an AT&T phone secondhand, you can still request an unlock through the **AT&T Unlock Portal**.
### **5. Will unlocking my AT&T phone affect my warranty?**
No, unlocking does not void the manufacturerβs warranty.
### **6. Can I use my unlocked AT&T phone with any carrier?**
Most AT&T phones work with **T-Mobile, international carriers, and MVNOs (e.g., Cricket, MetroPCS).** However, Verizon and Sprint use different network technologies, so compatibility may vary.
### **7. What if my unlock request is denied?**
- Ensure your device meets AT&Tβs eligibility requirements.
- If your account has an outstanding balance, pay it off and wait **48 hours** before retrying.
- If you believe your request was wrongly denied, **contact AT&T customer support** at
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Unlocking your AT&T phone is straightforward if you meet the eligibility requirements. Follow the steps carefully, and if you face any issues, reach out to AT&T for assistance. Once unlocked, you can enjoy the flexibility of switching carriers or using international SIM cards while traveling. π