Last Updated on December 29, 2022 by Ron D. Morgan
As you know, any device locked to the T-Mobile network can’t work on any other network until the device is unlocked. What you may not know is that T-Mobile has a temporary unlock option. This option allows you to unlock your device for a short period.
In summary, T-Mobile gives you the option to unlock your device for 30 days. That is for devices that are eligible for the temporary unlock.
This post explains all you need to know about the T-Mobile temporary unlock.
How Does The T-Mobile Temporary Unlock
The T-Mobile temporary unlock allows you to unlock an eligible device for 30 days. Within this period, you can use the device on any network outside the United States.
So, if you are taking a short trip out of the country, you can unlock the device temporarily while on your trip.
It is worth mentioning that any T-Mobile device on temporary unlock cannot work with any carrier in the United States. To use the device on any other carrier, you have to permanently unlock the device. Check this post on T-‘Mobile permanent unlock’ requirements.
The temporary unlock option works on eligible devices. First, you have to confirm that your device is eligible for this option. One way to confirm this is to check for the T-Mobile Device Unlock App.
The unlock app comes pre-installed on any device that qualifies for the temporary unlock. If your device doesn’t have this app, it means it’s not eligible. Unfortunately, you can’t install the app from the app store.
Check the Apps & Games menu under Settings to see if the app is available but not installed on your device.
How To Temporarily Unlock A T-Mobile Device
After you’ve confirmed that your device is eligible for the temporary unlock, follow the steps below to activate the option:
. On your device’s home screen, tap on Menu, and further click on Settings.
. Scroll down and select ‘Connections’, and further tap on ‘More Connection Settings’.
. Tap on ‘Network Unlock’.
. You will see three options: ‘Network Lock Status’, Permanent Unlock’, and ‘Temporary Unlock’. Select ‘Temporary Unlock’.
. The device will search if the temporary unlock is possible for your device.
. Your device will be unlocked after the confirmation. Select ‘OK’ to complete the process.
How Long Does The T-Mobile Temporary Unlock Last?
The temporary unlock option works for 30 days. This means that you can continue to use another network’s SIM card in your locked T-Mobile device for 30 days.
What Happens After The Unlock Period Is Over?
After the period, the device is automatically locked to the T-Mobile network again. You will receive a notification after the device is locked to the network. The next option you have is to unlock the device permanently.
Can You Unlock An iPhone Temporarily?
Unfortunately, this option is not available for iPhones. You can’t temporarily unlock a T-Mobile-locked iPhone. You can only unlock the device permanently once it meets the unlocking requirements.
How Much Does It Cost To Temporarily Unlock T-Mobile?
The T-Mobile temporary unlock process is free. As long as your device is eligible for it, you don’t have to pay to activate it.
Can You Use A Temporarily Unlock Device On Another Carrier?
Unfortunately, you can’t use a temporarily unlocked device on any carrier in the Country. It only works for other networks outside the country.
T-Mobile Temporary Unlock Not Working
If your device is eligible for the temporary unlock but the option is not working, several issues may cause this. For instance, it won’t work if you are trying to use another carrier’s SIM card on the device.
Also, if your device firmware is outdated, it can affect the temporary unlock.
To fix the issue, make sure your device’s software is up-to-date. To update the firmware:
. Connect the device to a wireless network.
. Tap on Settings and scroll down to About Phone.
. Select Check For Updates.
. Select Install Now.
. Wait for the installation process to be complete. Your device will restart after that to complete the process.
If it still doesn’t work, contact T-Mobile customer support at 1-877-746-0909.
Conclusion
So far, this post has explained all you need to know about the T-Mobile temporary unlock. It includes how to check if your device is eligible, how to activate the option, and other things you need to know.
Have you tried the process before now? Tell us about your experience using this unlock option to enable our readers to learn more.
Hi, I’m Ron D. Morgan. TECODY IS MY BRAINCHILD. I’ve worked in a tech startup in the last 7 years. I decided to branch out and start TECODY as a side project to provide tech troubleshooting tips for readers.
Got my two friends who are Nerd Heads too and here we are. The aim here is to provide readers with accurate info to help them resolve basic troubleshooting issues with Network and devices. You can always reach out to us via our Contact Us Page.