Optus, Australia’s leading telecommunications provider, offers a range of mobile phone plans and devices. Many of these phones are locked to the Optus network, meaning they will only accept Optus SIM cards.
However, if you want to switch providers or use your phone overseas with a local SIM, unlocking your Optus phone is a simple process.
To help you get away from Optus, we have a step-by-step guide to freeing your phone for good.
Why Unlock Your Optus Phone?
There are several reasons why you might want to unlock your Optus phone:
- Switching Providers: If you find a better deal with another provider, unlocking your phone allows you to use their SIM card without needing a new device.
- Traveling Abroad: Unlocked phones allow you to use local SIM cards when traveling internationally, often at more affordable rates than roaming charges.
- Selling Your Phone: Unlocked phones generally fetch a higher resale price compared to locked ones.
Things You Need to Do Before You Start
- Check Your Eligibility:
- Ensure you’ve met the minimum contract term with Optus.
- Verify that you have no outstanding payments on your Optus account.
- Confirm that you’ve completed any required repayment periods for subsidized devices.
- Gather Necessary Information:
- Locate your phone’s IMEI number (dial *#06# on your phone).
- Have your Optus account details ready (if applicable).
- Choose Your Unlocking Method:
- Decide whether to use the online method or the SMS method (if applicable).
- Back Up Your Data:
- Create a backup of your important contacts, photos, messages, and other data to prevent loss during the unlocking process.
Eligibility for Unlocking
Before proceeding, it’s important to confirm your eligibility to unlock your Optus phone. Here are the key factors:
- Minimum Contract Term: Your phone needs to be at the end of its minimum contract term with Optus.
- Outstanding Payments: You must have no outstanding payments on your Optus account, including your phone plan and device.
- Phone Ownership: If your phone is on a plan with a subsidized device cost, you may need to complete the minimum repayment period before unlocking is allowed.
Unlocking Fees for Prepaid Devices
Optus charges a fee for unlocking prepaid phones.
- If your prepaid service has been active for less than six months: The unlocking fee is $80.
- If your prepaid service has been active for more than six months: The unlocking fee is $25.
Please Note: These fees are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, always refer to the official Optus website or contact Optus customer support directly.
Two Methods to Unlock Your Optus Phone
There are two primary methods for unlocking your Optus phone:
A. Online Unlock Request
1. Gather Details: Have your IMEI number, and if possible, your Optus account details on hand.
2. Visit the Optus Unlock Your Device webpage: link to Optus Unlock Your Device page
3. Enter IMEI Number: You’ll need your phone’s IMEI number. Dial *#06# on your phone to retrieve it.
4. Pay Any Fees: If required, pay the unlocking fee. Optus will notify you if a fee applies based on your phone’s activation date.
5. Receive Unlock Code: After processing, you’ll receive an unlock code (if needed) and instructions to complete the process.
B. SMS Request (Optus Network Users Only)
- If you’re still on the Optus network (including wholesale customers), you can text “MENU” to 9999.
- Follow the prompts within the SMS menu to submit your unlock request.
- You’ll receive a confirmation SMS and further instructions regarding the unlock code.
Important Notes
- Processing times for unlock requests can vary depending on Optus’ workload.
- There may be a small fee associated with unlocking your phone, especially if you haven’t fulfilled the minimum contract term.
- Once unlocked, your phone will be permanently unlocked and compatible with SIM cards from any provider.
Additional Tips
While the official methods provided by Optus are reliable, there are a few additional tips to consider:
- Third-Party Unlocking Services:
- If you encounter difficulties with the official methods or have a complex phone model, consider using a reputable third-party unlocking service.
- Research and choose a reliable service provider with positive reviews and a proven track record.
- Be cautious of scams and ensure you’re dealing with a legitimate service.
- Check Your Phone’s Compatibility:
- Before attempting to unlock your phone, verify its compatibility with other networks.
- Some older or more specific phone models may have limitations or require additional steps to unlock successfully.
- Follow Specific Instructions:
- Once you receive the unlock code, follow the specific instructions provided by Optus or the third-party service.
- The process may vary depending on your phone model and operating system.
- Seek Assistance from Optus:
- If you encounter any problems or have further questions, don’t hesitate to contact Optus customer support.
- They can provide personalized guidance and assistance throughout the unlocking process.
Remember: Always prioritize security and avoid using unofficial or potentially risky methods that could compromise your phone’s functionality or data.
Unlocking your Optus phone offers flexibility and potential cost savings, especially when switching providers or traveling internationally. By following the steps outlined above and ensuring your eligibility, you can quickly unlock your Optus phone and enjoy the benefits of a network-agnostic device.