This post will show you how to check the iPhone 12 carrier lock status through the settings app. Read on if you need help verifying if your new iPhone is locked to a specific carrier or network service provider.
iPhone Carrier Lock Status
You can get a new smartphone that’s locked to a specific carrier or network. However, many people would prefer to get an unlocked model because they can use the device on any network and therefore worth more money.
Just like any other high-end devices, iPhones also come in locked and unlocked versions. The former models are typically the ones purchased from the Apple Store and paid in full price while the latter are those bought from a network service provider. Locked phones are usually part of an ongoing network plan and paid monthly.
There are two ways for you to determine whether or not your iPhone is locked or unlocked. You can check this information through the Settings menu or using a SIM card.
Easy Way to Access the iPhone 12 Carrier Lock Status
The simplest way to check is through the Settings app. Just follow these steps to check if your iPhone 12 is unlocked or locked to a specific carrier.
1. Once you’re all set, go to your Home screen. While in the Home screen, locate and then tap the Settings icon.

The Settings menu will load up on the next display. Here, you will see all the list of basic and advanced iOS features and services.
2. Scroll up or down to view all items. Then, tap General.

General settings and features will populate the next display.
3. To view the phone’s carrier information, tap About.

The About menu will load up next. Here, you will see all necessary details about the phone including its name, software version, model name and number, serial number and other relevant information.
4. Scroll down to view more details about the device. Then check the Carrier Lock information.

If the Carrier Lock status says, no SIM restrictions, it means that your iPhone is unlocked and therefore can be used on any network. Otherwise, you should see the carrier or network name indicated next to the Carrier Lock status instead.
And that’s how you check the carrier lock status of the iPhone 12.
Checking this information should be considered among the first things to do when procuring a new smartphone or iPhone from any store. Doing so will ensure that the unit you got is worth the amount you paid in cash.
Other Ways to Check if your iPhone is Locked or Unlocked
You can also use a SIM card to see if it’s unlocked. If you opt this method of checking, it would be better to have two different SIM cards from different networks. Then place a phone call using the current SIM Card and make sure it connects.
Should you go for this method, be sure to use the SIM-card ejector tool to eject the SIM card from the iPhone and then insert your new SIM card properly.
Once you’ve got the new SIM card installed, make a phone call to see if the phone can connect a call using the new SIM card. If it does not connect, then the phone is locked.
If necessary, you can give your carrier a call and ask them to unlock your iPhone. Just be sure to get your phone’s IMEI ready before you make a call so you can get quick support.
Alternatively, you can use a third-party unlocking service tool such as Doctor SIM to unlock your iPhone by yourself.
Hope this helps!
More Video Tutorials
To view more comprehensive tutorials and troubleshooting clips on different mobile phones and tablets, feel free to visit The Droid Guy channel on YouTube anytime.
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