How to unlock a MetroPCS Phone?

Upgrading to a new phone is always exciting, but it can be frustrating if you're stuck with a locked device. Unlocking your Metro by T-Mobile phone frees it to work on other compatible networks both domestically and internationally. The unlocking process is quick and straightforward if you meet Metro's eligibility requirements. In this guide, we'll walk through the step-by-step instructions to unlock your Android or iPhone. With an unlocked phone, you can use local SIM cards while traveling to avoid roaming fees or switch carriers entirely while keeping your current device. Let's get started on setting your phone free!

Reasons to Unlock Your MetroPCS Phone

Here are some of the top reasons you may want to unlock your MetroPCS device:

• Use your phone internationally - Unlocking allows you to access local SIM cards when traveling abroad and avoid costly roaming fees. You'll be able to pop in a local SIM and get right to making calls, texting, and web browsing.

• Switch to a different carrier - If you want to switch from MetroPCS to another carrier, you'll need to unlock your phone first before switching the SIM card.

• Sell your phone without restrictions - Unlocking makes your phone more valuable to any buyer as it can be used on any compatible network.

• Use different SIMs when traveling - Even domestically, having an unlocked device means you can use prepaid SIMs from various carriers and get the best deals on service.

Requirements for Unlocking

In order to unlock your MetroPCS device, you'll need to meet a few requirements:

• Your phone must be a MetroPCS phone - Only phones purchased from MetroPCS can be unlocked by the carrier. Bring-your-own or third-party phones can't be unlocked by MetroPCS.

• Fully paid off - Your phone must be fully paid off and not on any payment plan through MetroPCS.

• Active for 6+ months - The phone must have been active on the MetroPCS network for at least 6 months. This means 6 months of continuous service.

• Not lost/stolen - The device can't be reported lost, stolen or associated with fraudulent activity.

Steps to Unlock a MetroPCS Phone

Step 1: Connect your phone to the Metro network or Wi-Fi before starting the unlock process. You'll need an internet connection.

Step 2: Go to your apps menu and open the Device Unlock app. This app may also be called Unlock App or Network Unlock.

• For newer Samsung phones from 2019 or later, go to Settings > Connections > More Connection Settings > Select Network Unlock

• For other Android phones, open the preloaded unlock app and follow the on-screen prompts. If you don't see the app, your phone may already be unlocked or have a newer operating system.

Step 3: In the unlock app, choose the "Permanent Unlock" option. Be patient while your phone completes the unlock process.

Step 4: Once complete, restart your phone.

Step 5: Call Metro customer support at 888-863-8768 if:

• You can't find the unlock app for your specific phone model. You may need an unlock PIN code from Metro.

• Your phone meets Metro's unlock requirements but you still can't get it unlocked.

For iPhones, Metro will automatically start the unlock process once eligible. Just connect to Wi-Fi and:

Step 1: Make sure your iPhone is eligible to be unlocked.

Step 2: Insert a new non-T-Mobile SIM card and follow the setup prompts.

Step 3: If your iPhone is already set up, sign in to your Apple ID when asked.

Step 4: If you don't get prompted to set up the new SIM:

• Backup your iPhone

• Erase the phone

• Restore from your backup.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you run into any issues with the unlock code not working, try these troubleshooting tips:

• Confirm the unlock code – Contact MetroPCS to verify the proper unlock code was provided for your device.

• Try another SIM – Attempt the code again using a different non-MetroPCS SIM for troubleshooting purposes.

• Verify account status – Double check that your account is fully paid off including bills and hardware balances.

• Wait 24 hours – There can be a processing delay so wait a full day and try the unlock code again.

Conclusion

Unlocking your Metro by T-Mobile phone enables more flexibility and freedom to use it on other networks, while traveling or when switching carriers. Following Metro's unlocking steps carefully for your specific device model will ensure the process goes smoothly. Don't forget to contact Metro support if you need an unlock PIN code or have any trouble with the steps outlined. With some patience during the unlock completion, you'll have a phone ready to work with SIMs worldwide.

Explore more topics:

• Best House and home Apps For Android
• Best Food and Drink Apps for Android
• How to Add and Access Emergency Info on Android