How to Unlock the Sony Xperia Z1S

The best data plans aren’t always tied to a specific carrier, and therefore you should change your carrier as soon as you find out a new deal that you think is perfect for you. If you have a locked Sony Xperia Z1S, you’ll first need to unlock it to be able to use it on a carrier other than the one you’ve purchased it from.

Unlocking your Xperia Z1S isn’t a daunting task at all. You just need to get an unlock code and follow a couple of steps to get your device unlocked. Here’s how you can do that:

I. Locate the Device’s IMEI

1. Pull down the notification shade.

2. Tap the gear/settings icon at the top.

3. Scroll all the way down to About Phone and tap on it.

4. Tap Status.

5. Write down the IMEI number listed there.

II. Purchase an Unlock Code

1. Either Google for an unlock code provider or purchase one directly from us from our Unlock My Phone section linked below (the unlock code costs start at $29.95 and vary based on manufacturer/carrier. They also usually takes between 2-3 days and if a code cannot be produced a full refund is given).

Click Here to Purchase an Unlock Code

III. Input the Unlock Code

1. You’ll eventually receive the email with the unlock code(s).

2. Remove the SIM card if there is one.

3. Insert an unauthorized SIM card into the device.

4. You will be prompted for a code when you turn on the device. Input the first code you received via email and click OK. If that doesn’t work, try the second code. Once it says successful, the device should say the new carrier’s name at the top left.

IV. Setup the Internet and MMS Settings

1. Go to Settings > More… > Mobile networks > Access Point Names.

2. Tap the three dots (or plus sign) at the top right of the screen and select New APN.

3. Enter in all the information for your carrier into the proper fields. You can find your carrier’s internet settings here sorted by country/carrier alphabetically.

4. Tap the three dots at the bottom once all of that info is filled in and click Save.

5. Tap the dot to the right of the new APN in the list.

6. Pull down the notification bar and tap the quick settings button in the top right corner.

7. Turn on Airplane mode. Wait 10 seconds. Turn Airplane mode back off.

8. You are done.

Congrats! Your Sony Xperia Z1S is now unlocked. Feel free to use it with any carrier you want and enjoy the deals your new carrier has for you!