SIM-locked phones come at subsidized prices, reason why many people have to get their smartphones that are network-locked. But at times we do not appreciate to be bound with certain network. It can be even more frustrating if you are changing your location and learn to know about another, better network carrier provider. So why not to go the unlocking way then?

You can always buy the unlock codes from the network or get any third party to SIM-unlock Galaxy S4 but here are a few simple steps that will certainly help you in unlocking your Samsung Galaxy S4 without any other help, payment or hassles. This method has been tested and works onGT-i9505 and GT-i9500 models.The incredible part of using this procedure is that the SIM-Unlockachievedby this way is permanent. It retains even if youinstallthe official stock firmwarefrom your carrier!

How to unlock SIM locked Samsung Galaxy S4 GT-i9505 and GT-i9500:

Important:Do not useBackbutton of your Galaxy S4. Instead use theMenubutton of your phone and then selectBackfrom the options.

Dial *#0011#on your Galaxy S4 in Phone app to launchService Mode.When the Service menu is launched, tap onMenu(left soft key) and selectBack from the list of options shown.Tap on theMenukey again and selectKey Inputfrom the options. This will show you a pop up box. Tap on it, enter1& pressOK.Tap on theMenubutton yet again and selectBack. This should take you back to the Main MenuofService Mode.Once in MAIN MENU, tap on the first option:[1] UMTS.When you get into the UMTS MAIN MENU, tap on:[1] Debug Screen.On the next screen select the 6th option:[6] Phone Control.Once in Phone Control menu, select:[6] Network Lock.Next, tap on:[3] PERSO SHA256 OFF.From here, go back to theUMTS MAIN MENU by tapping onMenu(left soft key on SGS4) and selectingBackfrom the options.Once you are in the UMTS menu, tap on:[6]COMMON.There, select:[6]NV REBUILD.Now in the NV Rebuild menu, tap on:[4] Restore Back-up.Samsung Galaxy S4 will now go into a temporary freezing state. After a while you’ll see some activities. The screen will be black and the LED will turn Blue. The Menu and Back key button on phone will also light.Lastly, your Samsung Galaxy S4 will reboot automatically and will take a minute or two in booting up.

Congratulations! Your Galaxy S4 GT-i9500 and GT i9505 is now SIM-unlocked. No more carrier bondage! Try a SIM card from another carrier to confirm the process and do not forget to send us a Thank You note!