Does the SIM need to be inserted to unlock?

[dannyboy123]

Hi all,

Quick question - does the AT&T SIM need to be physically in the phone if I want to unlock it? Just wondering whether, after I upgrade to 3G, I can unlock my old iPhone and sell it on eBay...

Thanks!

 

[mkrishnan]

When I unlocked, the instructions were very unclear on this issue, but as far as I remember, no, it doesn't. IIRC, you can plug the phone into the computer with no SIM in it, restore the firmware to the latest version, and then run the unlocking software. Then you can put whatever SIM you want in it after the unlock. But do make sure, if relevant, to follow one of the procedures out there for wiping the iPhone, because restoring the firmware does not delete any of your information from the phone's memory (e.g. your contacts, calendar, and e-mail may appear to be gone but can easily be re-accessed if they're not wiped).

 

[onlycopunk]

The issue with the sim card doesn't matter. I've Pwned one with a Tmobile sim card in, and one with the no sim card and they both worked fine.

And as far as people being able to get your data, unless they are a forensics specialist and know how to get all of your information, which might I add isn't a very simple process, they wont be going after your mom's number.

 

[dannyboy123]

Thanks for your help, guys! Much appreciated.

 

[ellsworth]

Yeah.. you don't need to have the SIM card installed inside.