What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
On an iPhone, open Settings > General > About and look at Carrier Lock: “No SIM restrictions” means unlocked, while “SIM locked” means locked. Android has no single status screen for every model, so check the device’s network-unlock setting or ask the carrier that sold or authorized it. Before switching, verify network compatibility separately: unlocked does not mean compatible with every carrier.
Check the unlock status on the phone
iPhone
- Open Settings > General > About.
- Find Carrier Lock. “No SIM restrictions” indicates the iPhone is unlocked, according to T-Mobile’s device-unlock guidance. “SIM locked” indicates it is locked, according to AT&T’s unlock instructions.
Android
Android menus vary by manufacturer, model, carrier, and sometimes the device’s release date. T-Mobile lists these paths for some models: Samsung, Settings > Connections > More Connection Settings > Network Unlock; Motorola, Settings > About Phone > Device Unlock. Google/Pixel and other devices have model-specific steps in T-Mobile’s instructions. AT&T also separates Samsung instructions by whether the model was released before or after September 1, 2025; use its current device-specific guidance rather than assuming one menu applies to every Android phone.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Use another carrier’s SIM as a clue, not a final answer
If you already have access to a SIM from another carrier, inserting it may reveal whether the phone accepts it. AT&T says a non-AT&T SIM can help check status; Verizon says a locked device may show “SIM Not Supported” with a non-Verizon SIM, though the wording varies by manufacturer. A failed test can have causes other than a carrier lock, so confirm the device’s status with the carrier that supplied or authorized it. You do not need to buy a SIM just to check whether the phone is unlocked.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Confirm with the carrier that supplied or authorized the phone
Ask the original carrier to verify the device’s unlock status and, if it is locked, whether it qualifies for unlocking. This is especially important when the phone’s settings are unclear or the SIM test fails. T-Mobile says customers with a device it did not sell or authorize should contact the original carrier or manufacturer. AT&T provides an online unlock request and a request-status portal through its unlock support page.
#1 Best Overall
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
Unlock rules depend on the carrier and device circumstances. They may differ for prepaid and monthly-plan service, financing, purchase or activation date, account standing, and lost, stolen, or fraud flags. For example, AT&T’s listed prepaid criteria include 12 months of paid AT&T service and no lost, stolen, or fraud flag; that condition is not a universal rule for all AT&T devices. AT&T’s page was last updated June 29, 2026. Check the carrier’s current policy for the specific phone.
Examples of carrier-specific timing
| Carrier and device case | Published timing or condition | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| T-Mobile devices eligible for remote unlocking | T-Mobile says eligible devices that support remote unlocking are unlocked within two business days; if a device cannot be remotely unlocked, T-Mobile provides instructions. | Use the account/device process for a T-Mobile-authorized phone. The policy is subject to change. T-Mobile policy. |
| Verizon standard monthly-plan devices | Verizon’s current FAQ says payoff triggers automatic unlocking, subject to exceptions such as payment-method or security holds; devices flagged for fraud or reported lost or stolen are not unlocked. | Confirm which policy applies to the device and whether an exception applies. Verizon device-unlocking FAQ. |
| Verizon-bought prepaid devices under the policy beginning January 27, 2026 | Verizon describes unlocking upon request after 365 days from purchase and 12 months of paid service. | These terms apply to the specified prepaid devices, not all Verizon phones. Check the current FAQ. Verizon device-unlocking FAQ. |
| Verizon-bought devices activated before January 27, 2026 | Verizon describes automatic unlocking after 60 days. | Verify the device’s activation date and applicable policy. Verizon device-unlocking FAQ. |
Check compatibility separately before you switch
An unlocked phone is not guaranteed to work with every other carrier, or to support every service on a carrier’s network. Check compatibility for the exact model with the new carrier, including supported network technology and bands and service availability where you use the phone. T-Mobile’s Consumer Code for Wireless Service explains that unlocking does not itself make a device technologically compatible with another network. If an unlocked phone cannot get service, T-Mobile recommends contacting the other carrier.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- GSM Unlocked: Enjoy seamless connectivity with your preferred GSM carrier. Compatible with T-Mobile, Metro PCS, AT&T, Cricket, Mint Mobile and other GSM networks. SIM card not included. For network compatibility, please check with your carrier. Note: Not compatible with CDMA networks like Verizon (Visible, Spectrum Mobile, US Mobile, Total Wireless, Straight Talk Wireless)
- Boundless Views: Enjoy immersive viewing on the spacious 6.5” HD+ display. Whether you're watching videos, browsing, or gaming, every detail comes through with stunning clarity.
- Smooth Performance, All Day: Powered by an efficient octa-core processor, the G35 ensures smooth performance for your everyday tasks. Enjoy faster app launches, seamless multitasking, and reliable speed.
- Snap, Share, Repeat: The G35 features a dual rear camera setup for sharp, detailed shots, and a front-facing camera that’s perfect for selfies and video calls. Capture every moment with ease and clarity.
- Effortless Access: Keep your phone secure with A.I. Face ID technology. Instantly unlock your G35 with just a glance. It's fast, easy, and secure.
Rank #4
- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with Verizon, Spectrum, AT&T, Total Wireless, other CDMA carriers, it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- 4G LTE Bands: B1/B3/B5/B7/B8/B20/B28/B38/B40/B41
- Display: Super AMOLED, 90Hz, 800 nits (HBM) | 6.7 inches, 110.2 cm2 (~86.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 1080 x 2340 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~385 ppi density)
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro)
Rank #3
- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro). Battery: 5000 mAh, non-removable | A power adapter is NOT included.
Rank #2
- Blazing-fast Qualcomm performance. Get the speed you need for great entertainment with a Snapdragon 680 processor and 4GB**** of RAM.
- Fluid display + immersive stereo sound. Bring your entertainment to life with an ultrawide 6.5" 90Hz* HD+ display plus stereo speakers, Dolby Atmos, and Hi-Res Audio**.
- 50MP*** Quad Pixel camera. Capture sharper, more vibrant photos day or night with 4x the light sensitivity.
- 64GB**** built-in storage. Get plenty of room for photos, movies, songs, and apps—and add up to 1TB more with a microSD card*****.
- Unbelievable battery life. Work and play nonstop with a long-lasting 5000mAh battery.*****
- Unlock status: Is the original carrier’s restriction removed?
- Compatibility: Does the exact model support the new carrier’s network and the services you need?
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
