How do I Unlock a BlackBerry?

BlackBerry's are sold by many wireless providers across the globe, including AT&T/Cingular, T-Mobile, and Verizon.

When these companies sell a BlackBerry, they do so at a discount in order to attract customers. The providers then make up the lost profits over the lifetime of the contract signed by the customer.

To protect those profits, the wireless providers configure a "subsidy lock" into each BlackBerry. The subsidy lock prevents the BlackBerry from being used on another provider's network.

BlackBerry Unlocking

There are four known methods for removing the subsidy code and unlocking the BlackBerry.

Call Your Wireless Carrier

Many wireless carriers will tell you your unlock code if you meet their requirements. These requirements normally include being a customer for a minimum amount of time and having your account paid up.

Most wireless providers do not charge for this service. Rogers is a significant exception, as they attempt to extort $250 from their customers for this service.

Calculating the Unlock Code from the IMEI

Most providers use unlock codes which are generated from the BlackBerry's IMEI number.

Many small companies exist which have taken the time and effort to crack the algorithms used to generate those unlock codes.

These companies usually run web sites where you can enter your IMEI number and receive an unlock code -- or a fee.

This method does not work with BlackBerry's from all wireless providers. Some wireless carriers assign the unlock codes randomly to each phone and store the results in a database. There is no way to algorithmically determine the unlock code for a BlackBerry from one of those providers.

BlackBerry Unlocking Software

Specialized software exists and can be purchased which will erase the subsidy locking code from GSM BlackBerry phones.

You install this software on your PC and plug your BlackBerry into its docking cradle or into a USB sync cable.

BlackBerry Unlocking Hardware

If all else fails, there is specialized hardware which will force your BlackBerry to forget it's unlock code.

This hardware usually takes the form of a clip or a box. You plug your device into your BlackBerry and it erases the subsidy lock.

You can purchase these devices yourself, but usually it is less expensive to either take your phone into a local shop or send it off to a specialist company.