Tesco unlock code - how long did you have to wait?

gelato_cat

Hi all

I bought my HTC Desire HD from Tesco about a week go and activated the PAYG SIM yesterday. Saw on their website that if you've had the SIM active for under 12 months you have to pay a £20 fee to get the phone unlocked (otherwise it's free).

I had no problem with that so rang Tesco to get it done. The guy said that I have to wait up to 28 days for the unlock code!

I was a bit narked to say the least, as they could have made this clear on their website. However, there's nothing I can do about it (I'm not willing to port my number to Tesco for 12 months for various reasons) so I paid up and I'll just have to wait... but how long?

Anyone have experience of this, and how long did it take to get your code?

TIA

Suze

grumbler

Apparently it's the manufacture who supplies networks with the codes.

BTW, it's 2011 now. It's time to update the signature.

pimento

I called 3 Mobile on Friday to get an unlock code for my Wildfire. They told me it would take about 48 hours and they would call me when they had it.

gelato_cat

Thanks. Any idea where/how to enter the code? I've never unlocked a phone before! The guy said when they ring to give me the code they'll explain it, so I assume it's not complicated!

Suze

pimento wrote: »

I called 3 Mobile on Friday to get an unlock code for my Wildfire. They told me it would take about 48 hours and they would call me when they had it.

pimento

I found a video on YouTube by searching for unlock Wildfire. Looks simple enough.

Nostromo

You just put another network sim in the phone then when you switch the phone it will come up with a box to enter the unlock code you have recieved.

gelato_cat

Ah - thanks!

Suze

Nostromo wrote: »

You just put another network sim in the phone then when you switch the phone it will come up with a box to enter the unlock code you have recieved.

pimento

Nostromo wrote: »

You just put another network sim in the phone then when you switch the phone it will come up with a box to enter the unlock code you have recieved.

That didn't happen when I put my o2 SIM into my 3 phone. It just said "locked". Nothing popped up to put a number in. The YouTube video was helpful though.

I expect the 3 CS person will talk me through it, as least they should for £15!

vickssinex

I had a basic Samsung handset unlocked a couple of months ago - I was also given the 28 day notice but Tesco phoned back the same week with the code, so I wouldn't be too concerned about it - it's just a standard warning.

ColinAllCars

I have had unlock codes from them in the past and they took less then 28 days. The last time i tried to get a code late last year,the code didnt work,and i had to send them the phone so the manufacturer could unlock it,this took a long while.

gelato_cat

Thanks - looks like there is hope, then!

Was it a simple case of putting a non-Tesco SIM in the phone and then entering the code to unlock?

Suze

vickssinex wrote: »

I had a basic Samsung handset unlocked a couple of months ago - I was also given the 28 day notice but Tesco phoned back the same week with the code, so I wouldn't be too concerned about it - it's just a standard warning.