If you've ever tried to use your cell phone overseas, you know how expensive it can be. If you have a phone with a SIM card, you can save a fortune by buying local SIM cards when you travel internationally, then switching back to the American SIM card when you return. To do this, your phone must be "unlocked." Some phones come unlocked; others are tied to a network. To unlock your phone, contact your network provider, who will do it for a fee. Alternatively, many cell phone shops will do this for you.
Instructions
1. Check that all of your contact details (such as phone numbers and such) are saved on your phone and not your SIM card. If they're saved on the card, once you remove it you won't be able to dial the numbers. Transfer them to the phone.
2. Switch off the phone. Remove the back of the phone to expose the battery. Every phone is different. If you're not sure do this, follow the instructions that came with the phone.
3. Lift out the battery. Most batteries come out easily. If yours doesn't, use a flat-head screwdriver to gently pry it out of the phone. You will then see the SIM card. It's small and rectangular with one corner missing. If you have an iPhone, the SIM card isn't located under the battery. It's in a slot at the top of the phone. Use a paper clip to press down on the dot next to it to eject it.
4. Slide out the SIM card with your finger. If there is a thin piece of metal covering the SIM card, use the screwdriver to move it to access the SIM card.
5. Place the new SIM card in its place and replace the battery and the cover.
6. Turn on the phone. The phone should recognize the new SIM card and find a network. If you get the message "Invalid SIM," your phone is not unlocked. Contact your network or a cell phone store.
Tags: your phone, cell phone, your network