A carrier-locked phone can only use SIM cards and eSIMs from a specific carrier. To use a tukango eSIM, your device must be unlocked.
What is carrier lock?
When you buy a phone through a carrier with a contract or installment plan, the carrier may lock it to their network. This prevents you from using other carriers' SIM cards or eSIMs until the lock is removed.
How to check: iPhone
- Go to Settings → General → About
- Scroll down to "Carrier Lock"
- Read the status:
- "No SIM restrictions" → Your iPhone is unlocked ✅ - "SIM locked" or carrier name displayed → Your iPhone is locked ❌
If locked, contact the carrier that sold you the phone. Most carriers will unlock your device after the contract is fulfilled or for a fee.
How to check: Samsung / Android
There's no single universal setting, but try these methods:
Method 1: Insert a different SIM The most reliable test. Borrow a SIM from a different carrier, insert it, and see if you get signal.
Method 2: Check settings Settings → Connections → Mobile networks — If you can see and change network settings freely → likely unlocked
Method 3: Contact your carrier Call your carrier's support and ask them to confirm your device's lock status.