Factory Unlocked iPhones Explained in Details

Layla
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Published: November 2024

Factory unlocked iPhones are phones sold directly by Apple that work with any mobile carrier worldwide. These phones come without carrier restrictions, letting you switch phone companies whenever you want by simply changing the SIM card. While they cost more upfront, they offer more flexibility and better value over time, making them ideal for travelers and people who want freedom from carrier contracts.

Factory unlocked iPhones

I. What Is iPhone Factory Unlocked?

Factory unlocked iPhones are devices sold directly from Apple or authorized retailers that are not tied to any specific carrier. These phones come permanently unlocked from the factory, allowing you to use any mobile carrier’s SIM card worldwide without restrictions.

II. How to Identify a Factory Unlocked iPhone

  • SIM Check: Test your iPhone by trying different carrier SIM cards. If it works with all SIM cards, it’s factory unlocked. If it only works with some carriers, it’s likely chip unlocked instead.
  • IMEI CHECKER: Use online IMEI checker tools to verify your iPhone’s unlock status. Simply enter your device’s IMEI number into the tool and review the unlock status report.
  • Settings Check: Open Settings app > Go to General >Select About >Look for Carrier Lock >Should say “No SIM Restrictions“
Identifying factory unlocked iPhones
Identifying factory unlocked iPhones

III. Which Is Better: Factory Unlocked or Carrier Unlocked?

Now we’d like to compare factory unlocked iPhone with carrier unlocked iPhone. The main differences will be covered so that you can choose to factory unlock your iPhone or carrier unlock the device according to your demands.

1. What is the difference between factory unlocked and carrier unlocked phones?

To understand the main difference between factory unlocked and carrier unlocked phones, let’s get to know each of them and their pros and cons.

Locked Status

  • Factory Unlocked: These phones are never locked to any carrier. From the moment you buy them, they are ready to work with any compatible network. You simply insert a SIM card, and the phone will work without needing approval or adjustments.
  • Carrier Unlocked: These phones start locked to one specific carrier (e.g., AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile). To unlock them, you must meet the carrier’s conditions, such as paying off the phone or completing the contract. Once unlocked, they can work with other carriers.

Activation

  • Factory Unlocked: Can be activated immediately with any carrier. You don’t need to contact a carrier or meet any conditions—just insert a SIM card, and it works.
  • Carrier Unlocked: Requires the carrier to manually unlock the phone before it can be used with other networks. This process may take time, and you must first fulfill the carrier’s requirements (e.g., pay off the phone or finish a contract).

Carrier Branding and Pre-Installed Apps

  • Factory Unlocked: These phones are clean—no carrier logos or pre-installed apps (bloatware). The software is controlled by the manufacturer, ensuring faster updates and a pure user experience.
  • Carrier Unlocked: These phones often retain carrier-specific branding and apps, even after being unlocked. For example, the carrier’s logo may appear during startup, and apps like “My Verizon” or “T-Mobile Account” may remain on the phone and cannot always be removed.

Compatibility

  • Factory Unlocked: Fully supports a wide range of network bands, including 5G, LTE, and global frequencies. This makes them ideal for switching carriers or using international SIM cards while traveling.
  • Carrier Unlocked: Compatibility depends on the phone’s original configuration. It may not support all features (e.g., 5G or VoLTE) on a different carrier, as the hardware or software is often optimized for the original carrier.

Cost

  • Factory Unlocked: Typically more expensive upfront, as you are paying the full retail price without subsidies from a carrier.
  • Carrier Unlocked: Usually cheaper upfront, as these phones are offered at a discount or through installment plans by the carrier. However, this comes with the trade-off of being locked initially.

eSIM Support

  • Factory Unlocked: The eSIM is ready to work with any carrier, making it easy to switch networks or use international carriers without restrictions.
  • Carrier Unlocked: The eSIM may initially be restricted to the original carrier. Even after unlocking, some reconfiguration may be required to use it with another carrier.

2. Is a Factory Unlocked Better?

Yes, factory unlocked is the best for the following reasons: carrier freedom, travel convenience, and higher resale value.

Carrier freedom is the most significant advantage. With a factory unlocked iPhone, you’re not tied to any specific provider. You can switch carriers anytime by simply swapping SIM cards, avoiding long-term contracts and commitments.

For international travelers, these phones are particularly valuable. You can easily avoid expensive roaming fees by purchasing and using local SIM cards in any country you visit.

Finally, factory unlocked iPhones maintain better resale value in the used market. Their universal compatibility makes them attractive to more buyers, and despite the higher upfront cost, this flexibility and value retention make them a smarter long-term investment.

IV. FAQs

How much more expensive are unlocked iPhones?

Unlocked iPhones cost more upfront because you’re paying full retail price without carrier subsidies, but they offer better long-term value and higher resale prices.

Which carriers work with unlocked iPhones?

They work with most major carriers globally, including AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, and international GSM networks. Always check specific model compatibility with your local carrier.

Can I use it internationally?

Yes, you can use local SIM cards while traveling and switch between carriers without restrictions. The phone supports both physical SIM and eSIM depending on the model.