Unlocking your Walmart Family Mobile device is straightforward; this comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps.
Whether you have an Apple or Android device or a T-Mobile user seeking to unlock your phone, we’ve got you covered.
In this article:
What is Walmart Family Mobile Unlock Policy?
Walmart Family Mobile is a virtual network operator (MVNO) using the Verizon Wireless network. This means Walmart Family Mobile devices are locked to the Verizon network upon purchase.
To unlock a Walmart Family Mobile device, you must meet the following requirements:
- The device must be paid off in full.
- The device must have been active on the Walmart Family Mobile network for at least one year.
- The device must not be reported lost or stolen.
How to Unlock Your Walmart Family Mobile to Any Carrier?
Unlocking a Walmart phone (or any carrier-locked phone) involves removing the restrictions imposed on the device so it can be used with any carrier’s network. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to unlock a phone purchased from Walmart:
- Determine the Lock Status: Determine if your phone is locked before proceeding. Insert a SIM card from a different carrier into your phone and see if it works. Your phone is locked if you get a message indicating the SIM isn’t recognized or needs an unlock code.
- Meet the Requirements:
- Contract Phones: If you purchased your phone under a contract, you must fulfill the contract terms before you can request an unlock.
- Prepaid Phones: For prepaid phones, there might be a mandatory waiting period (e.g., 12 months of service) before you can request an unlock.
- Find your IMEI Number: This is a unique identifier for your phone. You can usually find it in the settings menu or by dialing *#06# on your phone.
- Contact Customer Service: Call the customer service of the carrier the phone is locked to. For Walmart Family Mobile, you would contact T-Mobile’s customer service, as Walmart Family Mobile operates on T-Mobile’s network.
- Request an Unlock Code: Provide the customer service representative with your phone’s IMEI number and request an unlock code.
- Follow the Instructions: The representative will provide instructions on how to use the unlock code. This usually involves inserting a non-supported SIM card and entering the provided code when prompted.
- Backup and Reset (if necessary): Some carriers might require you to back up your data and perform a factory reset after unlocking. Always backup your data to prevent any loss.
- Check with Another SIM: After unlocking, insert a SIM card from a different carrier to confirm the successful process.
- Troubleshooting: Ensure you’ve entered the code correctly if the phone doesn’t unlock. If you still face issues, contact the carrier’s customer service again for further assistance.
- Note on Walmart Phones: If you purchased a branded Walmart Family Mobile phone, it’s likely locked to T-Mobile’s network, as T-Mobile powers Walmart Family Mobile. However, if you purchased an unlocked phone from Walmart, it should work with any carrier without any unlocking process.
Unlocking a phone without meeting the carrier’s requirements or without their permission might void any warranty or violate the terms of your agreement with the carrier. Always follow the proper legal channels and the carrier’s policies when unlocking a device.
What are the requirements to unlock it?
Family Mobile’s unlocking requirements are as follows:
- Your device must be paid off in full.
- Your device must have been active on the Family Mobile network for at least one year.
- You must have redeemed airtime cards on your account for at least one year.
- Your phone number must not have been ported.
- You must request the device unlock while your service is active or within 60 days after service expiration.
- Your phone must not have been reported lost, stolen, or involved in fraudulent activity.
- You can only participate in this program once every 12 months.
How to Unlock the Walmart Family Mobile on Different Devices?
Unlocking Walmart Family Mobile for Apple
Walmart Family Mobile’s unlocking policy for Apple devices is as follows:
- Apple devices activated before November 23, 2021, Will be automatically unlocked after one year of active service.
- Apple devices with Verizon network activation on Walmart Family Mobile service from November 23, 2021, Will be unlocked after 60 days of active service, provided there’s no fraudulent activity.
To check if your Apple device is unlocked, insert a SIM card from another carrier and see if it works. If it does, then your device is unlocked.
Unlocking Walmart Family Mobile for Android
- Unlocking codes can be requested for Android devices activated on Walmart Family Mobile before November 23, 2021. To be eligible for unlock codes, your Android device must be active on TracFone service for at least a year and should not have the phone number ported or recycled.
- If the Android device has a Verizon network active on Walmart Family Mobile service from November 23, 2021, you can request unlock codes after 60 days, provided there’s no fraudulent activity.
- To request an unlock code, contact Walmart Family Mobile customer support.
- To use the unlock code, follow these steps:
- Power off the device.
- Insert a SIM card from another carrier.
- Power on the device.
- Wait for the device to display the “SIM Network Unlock PIN” screen.
- Enter the code provided by Walmart Family Mobile and tap Unlock. If successful, the device will display “Network unlock successfully.”
Unlock Family Mobile Phone for T-Mobile
- Confirm that you meet the unlock conditions. You can check your unlock eligibility on the Family Mobile website.
- Contact customer service at 1-888-442-5102.
- Submit your unlock request. You must provide your Family Mobile account number and device IMEI number.
- Wait for up to 15 working days for the request to be processed.
- Once approved, you will receive an email with the Family Mobile unlock code.
- To unlock your phone for T-Mobile or another carrier, insert your SIM card and enter the unlock code received.
What are the Walmart Phone Unlocking options?
If you’re eager to switch carriers and don’t want to wait for a year, you have two main options to get your Walmart phone unlocked:
1. Professional Unlocking Service
You can opt for a trusted unlocking service or a reputable cell phone repair shop to unlock your smartphone. Numerous providers claim to offer this service legally, but verifying their legitimacy is crucial before proceeding.
Always ensure you’re on the right side of the law when unlocking your device.
2. Switch to Another Carrier
Another option is to switch to a different carrier and trade in your phone for a new one. Remember that the new phone may also be locked to the new carrier’s network, but you’ll have successfully switched carriers.
What are the benefits of having an unlocked Walmart phone?
| Benefit | Description |
| Use any carrier | An unlocked phone can be used with any carrier that supports its network type. This gives you more flexibility in choosing a carrier that meets your needs and budget. |
| Get better deals | Unlocked phones are often cheaper than carrier-locked phones, especially if you buy them from a third-party retailer like Walmart. |
| Travel internationally | Unlocked phones can be used with SIM cards from carriers in other countries, making them ideal for international travel. |
| Sell your phone for more money. | Unlocked phones are more valuable than carrier-locked phones, so you can sell them for more money when you’re ready to upgrade. |
| You’re not tied to a contract. | Buying an unlocked phone means you’re not tied to a contract with a specific carrier. This means you can switch carriers anytime without a penalty fee. |
| You can choose your plan. | Unlocked phones often receive updates from the manufacturer sooner than carrier-locked phones. This is because carriers must test the updates before releasing them to customers. |
| You can get updates sooner. | Unlocked phones often receive updates from the manufacturer sooner than carrier-locked phones. This is because carriers must test the updates before releasing them to their customers. |
In addition to these benefits, Walmart’s return policy and customer support also support unlocked Walmart phones. This means that you can be confident that you’re getting a quality product and that you’ll be able to get help if you need it.
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What are the Drawbacks of an Unlocked Walmart Family Phone?
When you buy an unlocked phone from Walmart Family Mobile, it means you can choose any carrier you like for your service. However, there are a few things you should know.
First, even though the phone is unlocked, it might not work perfectly with another carrier’s network. Some features like voicemail or caller ID might not be available when you switch. This is because Walmart Family Mobile uses a different network technology compared to other carriers.
Also, if you have any problems with your phone, Walmart Family Mobile might not be able to help you fix them. In such cases, you will need to contact the phone’s manufacturer for support.
Lastly, unlocked phones usually cost more upfront than phones that are tied to one carrier. But, buying an unlocked phone can be a good choice because it lets you pick the carrier and plan that are best for you, which might save you money over time.
What is the cost of unlocking a Walmart phone?
Unlocking a Walmart phone can vary in cost, depending on the phone’s carrier and model. For customers of Walmart Family Mobile, unlocking the phone is free if you’ve been with them for at least 12 months and your account is in good standing. If you haven’t been a customer for that long, or if your account isn’t in good standing, there might be a fee of up to $300 to unlock your phone. You can find out if you’re eligible to unlock your phone and request an unlock code through the Walmart Family Mobile website.
If your phone is with another carrier, the cost to unlock it can be different. Some carriers might unlock your phone for free, while others may charge a fee. It’s a good idea to contact your carrier directly to find out the exact cost of unlocking your Walmart phone.
What are the supported Walmart Family Carriers?
You can use your device with any carrier that supports its network type.
- GSM carriers: AT&T, T-Mobile, Metro by T-Mobile, Cricket Wireless, Google Fi, Mint Mobile, Boost Mobile, Virgin Mobile USA, and many more.
- CDMA carriers: Verizon, US Cellular, Sprint, and many more.
You may get a better deal on a cellular plan from another carrier.
- Prepaid carriers Often offer lower monthly rates and more flexible plans than traditional carriers. Some examples of prepaid carriers include Walmart Family Mobile, TracFone, Straight Talk, and SIMPLE Mobile.
- MVNOs: MVNOs, or mobile virtual network operators, resell cellular service from major carriers. MVNOs often offer lower prices and more flexible plans than traditional carriers. Some examples of MVNOs include Google Fi, Mint Mobile, Boost Mobile, and Virgin Mobile USA.
You can travel internationally and use your device with a SIM card from a local carrier.
- This can be a great way to avoid expensive roaming charges. You can purchase a SIM card from a local carrier when you arrive at your destination.
You can sell your device for more money if it is unlocked.
- Unlocked devices are more valuable to buyers because they can be used with any carrier.
Final Words
In summary, Walmart Family Mobile phones are initially locked but can be unlocked. The unlock policy requires one year of continuous use, but options are available to expedite the process.
With your unlocked phone, you’ll have the flexibility to use it with the carrier of your choice. Remember to verify the legitimacy of any unlocking service you use and ensure you adhere to the law.
Relevant:
How to Create a Walmart Account, Shop Online, Membership, Benefits.
How To Get Walmart EIN Number?
FAQs
Can I unlock a Walmart phone?
Yes, you can unlock a Walmart phone. However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind:
- Your phone must be eligible to be unlocked. You can usually check this on Walmart Family Mobile’s website.
- You may need to pay a fee to unlock your phone.
- You will need to get an unlock code from Walmart Family Mobile. You can usually get the unlock code online or by calling Walmart Family Mobile’s customer support.
What is the number for Walmart Family mobile unlocking?
The number for Walmart Family Mobile unlocking is 1-888-442-5102.
