Smart devices have different versions for various budget ranges. But the versions are common among all the devices of various categories. But, the devices have some restrictions also. The different versions can be roughly divided into two major categories, which are currently available in the market. The two versions are factory unlocked and network unlocked. These devices are generally used by users because they are suitable for any network. So, today we will look at some of the probable causes that clarify the idea of these two kinds of devices. These devices now have a large fan following and are good from various points of view.
What is the meaning of factory unlocked devices?
These are the devices, that do not have any kind of restrictions in their systems. They are not bound by any software or over-the-top enhancements that can ruin the experience of a user sometimes. They can be of use with any network in a particular region where they are in use.
What is network unlocked devices?
These are devices, that are launched in the market by a network provider with some software changes and usage restrictions. The devices are unlocked later on by an authorized technician or a third party. This way, they become free from all the network restrictions they have and can be of assistance with any network available in the region.
How to check if your phone is factory unlocked?
You can do so by following some sequential steps. The steps are given below in a sequential manner for your convenience: –
- Switch off your phone.
- Put a different SIM card in your phone than the one which you are already using.
- Switch on the phone.
- Now, try to make a call to someone.
- If the call goes through, then your device is factory-unlocked, otherwise it is not.
Now, you can be sure whether your phone is factory-unlocked or not.
How to check if your phone is carrier-unlocked?
You can do so by following some sequential steps. The steps are given below in a sequential manner for your convenience: –
- Switch off your phone.
- Put a different SIM card in your phone than the one which you are already using.
- Switch on the phone.
- Now, try to make a call to someone.
- If the call goes through, then your device is carrier-unlocked, otherwise it is not.
Now, to confirm that you can also take a look at the back of your phone, if it has a logo of a carrier and can function with any network, then it has been carrier-unlocked.
What is a software unlocked phone?
These devices have an unlocked system for use with any network. The devices are unlocked by the carrier using the software. More delicately, the devices have firmware, which is there to complete the unlock process. In this case, there is one issue. If you receive any system update and install it, then your carrier lock will re-appear.
What is a Turbo SIM unlocked phone?
In this case, the device is unlocked using a Turbo SIM. The Turbo SIM is a small unlock chip, which is put in the SIM tray along with a regular SIM. There is also software, which comes along with the Turbo SIM. This software is for the installation of some network settings to complete the unlock process.
There is also a catch in this process, you will also have to install all the system updates, that you will receive after the unlock process.
What is a GPP phone?
GPP phone is a phone which is unlocked using a chip for all the carriers. The chip is placed on a regular and then put into the phone. The chip then acts as a duplicate ICCID and then, allows you to use any network carrier.
But, after a system update, the process or trick will stop working. So, you will again have to go through the entire process with a new compatible GPP chip.
Is it preferable to get a factory unlocked phone?
There are various advantages of having a factory unlocked device. The plus points of using a factory unlocked phone: –
- Free from one network policy
If you are using a factory unlocked device, then you can use any network SIM card.
- Hassle free usage
By using a factory unlocked device, you will have the option to stay away from the process of unlocking a carrier-locked device.
- Roaming advantages
By using a factory unlocked device, you will have the option to roam around the world without the worry to get a new device. The only thing which you will need in a new city is a compatible SIM card, and that’s it.
- No extra charges
By using a factory-unlocked device, you will have to pay no extra charges for any kind of service.
So, these are some of the advantages, that one can experience while using a factory-unlocked device.
What are the disadvantages of using a factory unlocked device?
If you use a factory unlocked device, then you can also face some issues, some of which are given below: –
- There is no support from the network providers, in case you run into some network-related issues.
- There can be some compatibility issues while issues factory unlocked devices. The device may not have the support for some network frequencies.
- You will have to pay extra upfront if you are going to buy a factory unlocked device.
- There is also no insurance coverage from the network providers if anything goes wrong with your device, in any sense.
So, these are some of the points, that one needs to know about unlocked devices. These points are straightforward. These points will now give you clarity before you go for a factory unlocked or carrier unlocked device from the market. These devices are a trend now and will allow you to be more practical in the long run. These devices will also save you from the pain of actually going for a carrier-locked device and then, keep on paying the extra bucks for the additional services, which you require.