UnlockBase

When preparing for a trip overseas, there’s so much to think about. Let’s take a quick look at a few mobile phone tips to follow both before and while traveling abroad.

Before You Go

Unlock your phone: A lot of people forget to have their phones unlocked so they can be used overseas, at a much cheaper rate. Don’t let this happen to you! You have two basic ways to get your phone unlocked; either through your network carrier or through a third-party service provider, like UnlockBase.

Unlocking your phone allows you to use it on a local carrier serving the country you are traveling to. Without local service, or in the least an international data plan, you will likely pay upward of $15/MB for data; this means sending a simple picture message will cost about $30.

Gear up

• Phone chargers: You’ll also want to stock up on phone chargers, preferably ones that connect to your computer through a USB port. You might even want to invest in extra battery packs to ensure you can stay charged on the go.

• We know you’re already planning on taking the coolest selfie for trip, so you’ll want to purchase a lens that is compatible with your smartphone and possibly even a selfie stick.

Download: You’ll want to download these four apps on your phone before you head out:

• Currency App: This app simplifies knowing how much money you’re spending when dealing with different currencies. All you do is select the currency you’re making a purchase with and then select the conversion you want to take place.

• Transit App: If you’re using public transportation, Transit App is a must. It shows you the quickest way to get to your destination using a variety of transportation methods, including bike shares, commuter rails and more.

• Data Manager App: “This app helps you take control of your mobile data usage and save you money on your monthly phone bill.” Clint Johnston from TripHackr says.

Clint Johnston from TripHackr

• Text Messaging App: Rick Steves, America’s leading authority on European travel, recommends the apps below, “all of which “work similarly for text messaging.” : WhatsApp, Text Plus, Textfree, and React.

Rick Steves

• Offi Journey Planner: If you’re using public transportation, the Offi Journey Planner app is a must use. It shows you the quickest way to get to your destination using a variety of transportation methods, including bike shares, commuter rails and more.

Once You Arrive

Buy a SIM card: Go to a retailer — possibly even a gas station — that sells SIM cards and data plans for the carrier you want to switch to. Simply pop the SIM card in your phone and follow the activation process; you’ll then have a working cell phone with cheap international calling.

If you don’t want to take the route of switching out SIM cards, you can always take advantage of KnowRoaming, which requires the simple, one-time application of a sticker on your current SIM card that activates itself and provides cheap international voice, text and data roaming rates in over 200 countries. KnowRoaming’s prepaid system puts you in control of your usage and spending, which you can monitor in real-time using the KnowRoaming app.

Dave Dean from Too Many Adapters gave KnowRoaming a try and was more than satisfied.

Dave Dean from Too many adapters

Also HandsetExpert put together an interactive world map that will let you know where you can use your phone, whether all services are available and whether it will cost extra.

WiFi: While on your trip you’ll want to avoid costly data usage charges by tapping into free WiFi connections as much as possible. SpeedSpot is an app that helps you identify the closest free Internet connections.

Translation: If you’re in need of a translation app, there’s no better one than OneTongue, which has the capability to support eight users simultaneously.

Stay connected with friends and family: When it comes to staying in contact with your loved ones back home, you can’t go wrong with Skype. Simply download the app to your smartphone and you’ll be able to make international calls for as cheap as 1 cent a minute. Google Hangouts is another excellent communication app, supporting both voice and video connections.

Extra Tips to Keep In Mind

• Keeping your phone in airplane mode ensures that you don’t unknowingly use any data,
  and it’s also ideal to turn off any push notifications.

• When communicating with your friends and loved ones, do your best to do so with a free WiFi connection.

• Consider investing in an unlocked international cell phone, such as the:
  Asus PadFone Mini or the Nokia Lumia 625.

• Have a great time!

Today we have updated the “Alcatel (USB Modem New)”  & “Alcatel (USB Modem Old #1)” services with seven newly supported models of Alcatel Modem & Tablet that can be unlocked in real time by code simply with the IMEI (Serial Number). Including these new models there are now 13 powerful services to unlock Alcatel cell phone Instantly 24/7 and supporting more than 467 models!

Service: Alcatel (USB Modem New) – [Tool ID: 498]

– Alcatel OT-Evo7 HD (Tablet)
– Alcatel OT-M600
– Alcatel OT-M600Q
– Alcatel Modem X090
– Alcatel Modem X150
– Alcatel Modem X221L

Service : Alcatel (USB Modem Old #1) – [Tool ID: 306]

– Alcatel Modem X220x

We can source the Unlock Code for any Samsung from Argentina. However if you have a Samsung Galaxy Core from this country, you will need to Flash / Upgrade the firmware of the phone to be able to enter the Unlock Code in your Cell Phone. Why ? Simply because the network provider from Argentina use by default for the Samsung SM-G350 (Galaxy Core Plus) and SM-G355 (Galaxy Core 2) a custom firmware that avoid anybody to enter code like explained in this tutorial to Unlock Samsung Galaxy Avant from T-Mobile USA. You can follow the guideline of our previous post for Galaxy Avant and then :

– Click this link to download the Samsung Galaxy Core Plus (SM-G350) Unlock Firmware.
– Click this link to download the Samsung Galaxy Core 2 (SM-G355) Unlock Firmware.

If you want to unlock your LG cell phone, you will first need to identify the model of your phone.  Being that there are literally hundreds of LG phones on the market, it’s important that you keep in mind that an unlock process for one LG phone may not work on your exact LG phone.  Here’s a quick look at the unlock process for three of today’s most popular LG cell phones.

Unlock LG G3

You will first need to purchase an unlock code, and after doing so, please follow the steps listed below:

• Insert a SIM from the carrier you are wanting to switch to; it should show up as an “Unaccepted Simcard“
• At this point, you should see texts pop up on the screen asking for an unlock code
• Enter the unlock code that we provided to you and click “OK” or “confirm” or “Submit“
• Your phone should be unlocked

Unlock LG Optimus G

You will first need to purchase an unlock code, and after doing so, please follow the steps listed below:

• Turn on your LG Optimus G
• Make sure the original SIM card is in it
• From the home screen, type in 2945#*970#
• You will see a menu pop up
• Select “SIM UNLOCK” or “NETWORK UNLOCK“
• Type in your unlock code that you received from us and select “OK” or “SUBMIT” or “CONFIRM“
• The phone may or may not reboot itself
• It should now be unlocked

Unlock LG G Vista

You will first need to purchase an unlock code, and after doing so, please follow the steps listed below:

• Insert a SIM card into the phone that comes from the carrier you are wanting to switch to,
• Turn on the phone,
• A message stating “Enter unlock code” should appear,
• Type in the unlock code that you received from us,
• If for some reason you are not asked to enter an unlock code, you will need to contact us.

* Bonus Tip * 

Please keep in mind that when contacting UnlockBase for an unlock code, we will need the IMEI number off of your phone, which can usually be identified by typing in *#06# and hitting the “send” button.  You should receive a text message with your IMEI number.

Update 19th June 2015: Too complicated ?! Don’t want to risk to flash your phone with new firmware ?! Please take a look to our new Official mobile “Device Unlock” app method to unlock your Samsung using official Android App.

The Samsung Galaxy Avant (SM-G386T) cell phone from T-Mobile USA is using a custom firmware preventing the phone from being unlocked by code as there is no way to enter it (the phone is simply not asking for “SIM Network Unlock PIN”). Before this post, the only way to Unlock the phone was by using the official T-Mobile  “Mobile Device Unlock App” which is an Android app called “Device Unlock” that allows you to request and apply a mobile device unlock directly from the device.

So what do you do if you get an Unlock Code but you cannot use it?

Now there is a solution consisting of an upgrade to the firmware of the phone with MetroPCS Firmware instead of T-Mobile, and this will allow the phone to ask for the Unlock Code. Below you will find a tutorial about how to do this. Once you flash (update) your Phone with this New Firmware, please make sure that your Samsung SM-G386T is asking for “SIM Network Unlock PIN”. And if the answer is yes you can then click this link to order the Unlock Code of your Samsung Galaxy Avant from T-Mobile USA.

Service Name: Samsung T-Mobile USA [NEW GEN 2015] – NCK + SPCK (1<>4 Hours Mon-Fri) – [Tool ID: 775]

Step by Step Tutorial Firmware Upgrade
Samsung Galaxy Avant (SM-GT386T) to MetroPCS Firmware

Disclaimer: UnlockBase is not responsible if users break / brick or damage their phone while trying to use this method. You must not use this firmware for any other Android Cell Phone other than the Samsung Galaxy Avant (SM-G386T) from T-Mobile USA. Do so at your own risk. If you’re not sure what you are doing, please seek assistance at a local cell phone service center in your area.

Step 1 (Preparation): 

1. Download the Special MPCS Firmware for Samsung SM-G386T using think link.
2. Download ODIN v3.09 Service Software using this link.
3. Make sure your phone battery is charged more than 60%.
4. Enable USB Debugging, by open Settings > Developers Option > USB Debugging
   If Developers Option is hidden, go to Settings > About Phone > Built Number (tap on it for 5-8 times)
5. Make sure you install the Samsung Galaxy Avant USB drivers on your PC, if you haven’t already.

(Optional: Download the Original T-Mobile Firmware for Samsung SM-G386T using think link.)

Step 2 (Update SM-G386T Firmware): 

1. Run Odin3 v3.09 as administrator (Right-Click: Run as Administrator).
2. Switch OFF your Samsung Galaxy Avant SM-G386T
3. Boot in download mode, by pressing the Volume Down + Home + Power Key simultaneously.
   
4. When a construction Android robot icon with a warning triangle appears on screen:Tap Volume Up button to enter Download Mode:
5. Connect the Samsung Galaxy Avant SM-G386T (T-Mobile) to your PC with the USB cable.
   Odin will automatically detect your phone and show the “Added!” message.
6. In the Odin, click on AP or PDA
   and then choose G386T1UVU1ANH3_G386T1TMB1ANH3_G386T1UVU1ANH3_HOME.tar file.
   
7. Ensure Auto Reboot and F. Reset Time options are selected selected in Odin
   while the Re-Partition option is unchecked (this is very important).
8. Click Start in Odin and wait for the software to update your phone.
   
9. Once the root installation is done, your phone will reboot
   and soon a PASS message with a green background appears in the left-most box at the very top of Odin.
10. You can close Odin after device turns on.
11. Your Samsung Galaxy Avant SM-G386T is now fully update with MetroPCS Firmware!

AFTER FLASHING A SAMSUNG SM-G386T T-MOBILE WITH THIS FIRMWARE THE PHONE WILL ASK FOR A NETWORK CODE WHEN YOU PUT A NON APPROVED CARRIER’S SIM CARD ON THE PHONE. AFTER YOU HAVE UNLOCKED THE SM-G386T YOU CAN FLASH A T-MOBILE FIRMWARE BACK TO THE DEVICE SO THAT IT GOES BACK TO STOCK AND THE CUSTOMER DOES NOT LOSE WARRANTY. PHONE WILL REMAIN UNLOCKED.

When it comes to mobile phones, most people are choosing to hop on the smartphone bandwagon.  Not only do these phones offer an assortment of features and application capabilities, but they also come in many shapes and sizes.  And best of all, some of them are unlocked, meaning they can be used on various networks.  Most importantly, some of them can be used overseas, making them perfect for those of you who travel internationally or have loved ones who are in the military.

Here’s a quick look at five of the most popular unlocked phones that can be used internationally.  Do keep in mind, though, that once you land in a different country, you’ll need to purchase a new SIM card for the carrier you wish to use; this allows you to make international calls without going bankrupt.

Asus ZenFone 4

The ZenFone 4 is an incredibly affordable smartphone.  If you want a larger display screen, opt for the ZenPhone 5.  The ZenFone comes with several attractive features, including:

• 5-megapixel camera
• Intel Atom processor
• Android 4.3
• 1GB of RAM
• Moto G

If you liked the Moto X, then you’ll love the Moto G.  Available without a contract and for only $179, the smartphone features Android 4.4 KitKat, great performance, and specifically directed toward people traveling internationally, it is available with GSM.

Nokia Lumia 625

If you’re wanting to travel with a Windows phone, then the Nokia Lumia 625 is an excellent option that you should take advantage of.  It has 512MB of RAM, a 4.7-inch display, a 2,000mAh battery and much more.  Although this phone regularly retails for nearly $300, you can usually find it online for much cheaper.

Asus PadFone Mini

Wanting a smartphone that doubles as a tablet?  If so, you’ll love the PadFone Mini.  It comes out of the box with Android 4.3 as well as 1GB of RAM.  It’s 8-megapixel camera takes amazing pictures and captures clear video.  When it comes to extreme versatility for international travel, this is the phone you’ll want to invest in.

Sony Xperia E Dual

Although this phone doesn’t come with a microSD card slot, it still features a rear-facing camera, 4GB of memory, a big battery life and plenty of compatible apps.  You can usually find this phone for well under $100, and it works well with just about any international carrier.

If you would like more information about unlocking your cell phone to use while traveling abroad, contact UnlockBase today.

It wasn’t that long ago that unlocking your cell phone was like going to the underground black market and purchasing some illegal unlock code, followed then by hitting up a dealer on the way home who dealt unlocking services as a side job. Nowadays, though, that’s all behind us. Thanks to the FCC, carriers must now allow you to unlock your phone if you meet certain requirements.

Here’s a quick look at the legal way for unlocking an AT&T cell phone.

Make sure you meet the requirements

First and foremost, you’ll need to meet the following requirements to unlock AT&T phone:

• Your contract has ended and all terms have been fulfilled
• If your contract hasn’t ended, your remaining balance and an Early Termination Fee will have to be paid
• Your account is in good standing
• The phone has not been reported lost or stolen
• The phone must be fully paid for
• Prepaid phones must have previously had active service with AT&T for at least 60 days
• GoPhones must have previously had active service with AT&T for 6 months

Locate Your IMEI Number

Once you have made sure that you meet the above mentioned requirements, you’ll then need to identify your phone’s IMEI number, which can be viewed by typing *#06# on your keypad and hitting SEND or CALL. You’ll receive a message with your IMEI number or it will automatically appear on your screen depending on the type of AT&T phone you have.

Give the Number to Your Unlock Code Service Provider

Contact the service provider who you are getting an unlock code through and give them your IMEI number. They will in turn give you an unlock code either for free or for a fee. Do keep in mind that you need to get the code from a trustworthy source or the data on your phone could be exploited. The service provider who gives you an unlock code should provide you with step-by-step instructions for unlocking your phone. If you have any questions, make sure to contact UnlockBase today.

When it comes to unlocking cell phones, you need to know whether or not it is CDMA or GSM.  Most carriers in the United States — U.S. Cellular, Sprint and Verizon — use CDMA technology.  T-Mobile and AT&T on the other hand use GSM technology.  To keep things simple, if you want to unlock your phone, you must first identify what carrier the phone was originally used with.  If it was with AT&T or T-Mobile, then you’ll need to go about the unlocking process keeping in mind that the phone operates off of GMS technology.

Here’s a quick look at the best and easiest phones to unlock over a GSM network.

Samsung Galaxy S5

Keep in mind that if you want to unlock your GSM phone, it will have to be used with a different carrier who also uses GSM technology.  To unlock a Samsung S5, first remove the current SIM card and insert one from the carrier you want to switch to.  Now, turn the phone back on. The phone will ask for an unlock code (SIM Network Unlock PIN).  Enter the code that you purchased from a service provider.  If it then asks for a Network Code, enter it as well.  The phone should now be unlocked.

Samsung Galaxy Note 4

The Galaxy Note 4 is the flagship for Samsung when it comes to screen size and resolution.  Fortunately, you can easily unlock your Samsung Galaxy Note 4 in as little as three steps.  First, give the IMEI number of your phone to a service provider who sells unlock codes.  To get this number, go to SETTINGS >> About device >> Status.  Then, follow the directions given to you by the service provider and type in the unlock code when asked for it.  That’s it; your phone should be unlocked.

HTC One M8

Need to unlock HTC One M8? This is another GSM phone that is incredibly easy to unlock.  Simply remove the nanoSIM and replace it with one from the carrier you want to switch to.  After turning the phone back on, enter the unlock code you received from an unlock service provider, and voila!  Your phone is unlocked and can be used on any GSM network.

For more information on unlocking a GSM phone, check out UnlockBase today.

Huawei has a slew of top-of-the-line phones.  Take for instance the P7.  This finely-crafted phone might not be as powerful and bold as the Samsung S5, but when compared to other phones in its same class and price range, it definitely tops the list.  At only 6.5mm thick and weighing only 4.37 ounces, this phone easily fits into your pocket.  And don’t forget about the amazing camera and display screen.

As grand as the Huawei P7 is, or any other Huawei phone, service on the phones will of course be largely influenced by your carrier.  If you have found yourself stuck in a contract that serves the purpose of nothing less than a burden, then take comfort in knowing that you can unlock your Huawei phone and switch carriers.

Tips for Unlocking Your Huawei Phone

The exact way to go about unlocking your Huawei phone will depend on the model that you have.  No matter the model, though, you will need an unlock code.  When acquiring this code, make sure it comes from a trustworthy source, or you might end up “bricking” your phone, meaning it will be permanently locked to your current carrier.

Also, make sure that you have step-by-step instructions for unlocking your phone according to the model that it is.  If you go about unlocking the phone the wrong way, this can lead to a loss of data and files as well as “bricking.”  On most models, you will have only three attempts to enter the unlock code.

To get an unlock code, you will need to give the source through which you’re acquiring the code and the IMEI number off of your phone.  This number is usually found under the battery in the phone.  On many Huawei phones, you will need two to four codes altogether (all of which come together when you get an unlock code): Network code, Service provider code, subset Unlock PIN, and/or Counter Unlock code.  If at any time throughout the unlocking process your phone displays “simlock block unlock reset key,” then you will enter the Counter Unlock code.

Once you have completed the necessary steps involved in unlocking your Huawei phone, you can then use the phone on any compatible network carrier.  If you have further questions about unlocking your phone, don’t hesitate to contact UnlockBase today.

Exclusively for UnlockBase server we are now able to offer a new service to unlock all iPhone from Claro Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay. Service is working in less than 4 business days (Monday to Friday) and support absolutely all iPhone from Claro as long as it’s one of these three countries, including the 6 and 6 Plus ! This is a new exclusive service from UnlockBase Server, all we need is the IMEI of your iPhone and it will be registered as “Unlocked” on iTunes server (Permanent Factory Unlock).

Service Name: Claro Argentina/Uruguay/Paraguay – All iPhone Including 6/6+ [Tool ID: 761]

You can check our prices on our Wholesale Unlock Pricing page.