Printable View
When I get my new phone I want to give my old one to a friend. Metro PCS said they wouldn't turn on my Verizon phone for him. Can anyone briefly explain if there is a work around for this? I don't really understand "unlocking" but is this the process that must go on, before the new network will turn on the phone?
Thanks.
Verizon and Metro PCS use CDMA networks, unlocking is not involved.
Unlocking is for GSM based phones, as GSM based phones get "locked" to a Carrier via software so you can't just put anyone's sim card in and use it.
with CDMA your ESN number is registered into their servers, meaning if they wont activate it, you are out of luck.
was a lesson I learned the Hard way in 2002, bringing over a Verizon phone and wanting to use it on the Bell Canada network.
like deRusett said, unlocking is not required. Sometimes Verizon activates, sometimes they don't. It's really just luck of the draw, and nowadays, your luck is slim.