Buzz
You might be very satisfied with your MetroPCS phone except for the service provider. Below are a few methods to unlock your MetroPCS device, enabling you to use it with any carrier.
Steps
Unlock via customer service
Check the SIM card on your phone.
- MetroPCS has almost entirely transitioned to GSM and LTE networks. These technologies rely on SIM cards and can be easily unlocked using the methods below. In rare cases, the phone may not have a SIM card. This means the device uses CDMA technology, and you’ll need to contact the new carrier to unlock it.
- The SIM card is usually located in a small slot on the phone or installed beneath the battery on the back of the device.
Check the usage duration of your MetroPCS account.
- Customer service will only unlock phones that have been active on the MetroPCS network for 90 consecutive days. If your phone doesn’t meet this requirement, try one of the alternative methods below.
Contact MetroPCS by phone or visit a store in person to request an unlock code.
- Call MetroPCS customer care at 1-888-863-8768, or use the Store Locator tool at https://www.metropcs.com/find-store.html to find a MetroPCS Corporate Store near you. Request the unlock code for your phone model.
Provide the MetroPCS representative with the following details:
- The phone number of the device you want to unlock.
- The account number for your MetroPCS wireless account.
- The payment PIN for your account.
- Your email address.
Finally, wait for a response email from MetroPCS.
- This email will include the unlock code and instructions. Typically, you’ll receive the email within 2 to 3 business days.
- If you don’t receive the email within this timeframe, contact MetroPCS customer care again. Request the representative to resubmit your request if necessary.
Follow the instructions in the confirmation email to unlock your phone.
- The unlocking process varies depending on your phone’s configuration and model. Once completed, your MetroPCS phone will be compatible with GSM wireless networks.
- Usually, you’ll need to power off the phone, insert the new carrier’s SIM card, turn the phone back on, and enter the code when prompted.
- MetroPCS typically provides two codes: the Network Lock (NCK) and the Service Provider Lock (SPCK). If the phone doesn’t accept the first code, try the second one. Some phones may require both codes.
Using the Device Unlock App
Locate the Device Unlock app.
- As of December 2015, only the LG Leon LTE, LG G Stylo, and Kyocera Hydro Elite phones are compatible with this Android app. Look for the software in the general apps folder or the MetroPCS folder.
Connect to a strong network signal.
- A fast data connection like 4G is ideal, but 3G or Wi-Fi will also work effectively.
Select Permanent Unlock in the Device Unlock app.
- Confirm your selection and wait for the process to complete.
Restart your phone.
- After rebooting, your phone will be unlocked and compatible with all supported networks. You’ll need a SIM card from the new carrier.
Troubleshooting.
- There are several reasons why the standard code might not work. Here are some potential issues and how to resolve them:
- Data corrupted, server not responding, no internet connection, or failure in applying unlock: Turn off Wi-Fi, find a location with a stronger network signal, and try again.
- Data not recognized: If your phone is rooted, you’ll need to unroot it before unlocking. Look for specific unrooting instructions for your phone model.
- System maintenance error: The system is under maintenance; try again later.
- Other error messages: Follow the on-screen instructions or restart your phone and try again.
Using Online Services
This method carries risks.
- Unlocking your phone through MetroPCS customer service is always the safer option. If you don’t qualify for an official unlock, you can use third-party services. This may void your warranty and violate service terms. Be cautious, as scams are common.
Find a reputable unlocking service.
- Search online for unlocking services for your phone model. These services typically charge less than $10 (under 230,000 VND). Choose a service with the following criteria:
- A physical address listed on their website
- Secure payment systems
- A refund policy
- Positive reviews from third parties like Scam Adviser or Better Business Bureau
Provide the IMEI number and payment details. Reputable services will only require you to enter your phone’s IMEI number into a simple online form. Find your phone’s IMEI number in the settings or printed behind the battery, then input it on the website. In most cases, you’ll need to provide credit card or PayPal details and agree to a specific payment.Scammers may use your IMEI to clone your phone or commit fraud. Be cautious about who you share this number with. Never agree to download software from these services.
Wait for the unlock code to be provided.
- The unlock code is usually sent immediately, but sometimes it may take one to two days to receive the email. Once you have the code, follow the accompanying instructions to enter it and permanently unlock your phone.
- In most cases, after inserting a new carrier’s SIM card, your phone will prompt you to enter the code.
Tips
- If you’re in the military and about to be deployed, you don’t have to wait 90 days. Simply bring your deployment papers to the nearest MetroPCS Corporate Store to expedite your unlock request.
- Check your email’s spam or junk folder if you don’t receive a confirmation email within two to three business days. In some cases, emails from MetroPCS may be filtered as spam.
- CDMA phones (without SIM cards) are often tied to specific carriers. This means you may not be able to retain your phone number, contacts, and other information if you decide to switch carriers.
- Not all LTE networks are compatible, but this may change as infrastructure evolves. Check with your desired carrier to confirm if your phone model is supported.
Warnings
- If you unlock your phone while still under contract, the device will no longer be covered by warranty.
- There’s no guarantee that an unlocked MetroPCS phone will fully support the services and features offered by another carrier. Keep this in mind when using an unlocked MetroPCS phone with a different carrier.
