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Vodafone phone from new – If I change providers do I have to unlock phone?

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Nesty
Nesty Posts: 500 Forumite
Part of the Furniture 100 Posts Combo Breaker
I have been with Vodafone for a fair number of years now.

In 2010 I took out a new 24 month contract I got a new HTC desire HD. The contract coming to an end & Vodafone not really budging on the SIM only price. My current phone doing ok and I don’t want to upgrade. It looks like I shall be parting ways with Vodafone as they won't price match with the other offer I have.

My question as Vodafone provided my phone. If I go to another operator on SIM only deal. Do I have to unlock the phone, would my phone be locked only for Vodafone network?

Comments

  • grumbler
    grumbler Posts: 58,629 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 10,000 Posts Name Dropper Photogenic
    It will work on some virtual networks using Vodafone: Ovivo, Talkmobile, Lebara, Asda Mobile, maybe some other.
    For all other networks, including abroad local operators, it will need unlocking.
  • flashg67
    flashg67 Posts: 4,128 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 1,000 Posts Name Dropper Photogenic
    Easiest way is to find someone with a different provider & try their Sim card in your phone?

    My brothers last two Vodafone contracts had unlocked phones provided. Even if it needs unlocking, Vodafone will do it, about £15 I think, or try your local market stall too.
  • Nesty
    Nesty Posts: 500 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 100 Posts Combo Breaker
    ok thanks. I am looking at Tescos mobile.

    It's a shame but if Vodafone offered anywhere near the offered tariff I would just stay with them. Though something like an extra £10 a month just to stay with them I am not prepared to do.
  • grumbler
    grumbler Posts: 58,629 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 10,000 Posts Name Dropper Photogenic
    IIRC Vodafone will unlock your phone for free. It's worth doing regardless.
  • Nesty
    Nesty Posts: 500 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 100 Posts Combo Breaker
    Cheers many thanks
  • Vodafone
    Vodafone Posts: 4,297 Organisation Representative
    Hi Nesty,

    Although it's a shame to see that we're unable to offer you the package you're looking for I can confirm that your phone will already be unlocked.

    As such, you'll be able to use any SIM in it.

    Thanks,

    Lee

    Web Relations Team

    Vodafone UK
    Official Company Representative
    I am the official company representative of Vodafone. MSE has given permission for me to post in response to queries about the company, so that I can help solve issues. You can see my name on the companies with permission to post list. I am not allowed to tout for business at all. If you believe I am please report it to forumteam@moneysavingexpert.com This does NOT imply any form of approval of my company or its products by MSE"
  • samadams_2
    samadams_2 Posts: 33 Forumite
    yes

    sam
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