If you want to switch cell phone carriers, you may find that your Motorola W181 is locked to the carrier that sold you the device. Unlocking the phone allows you to use another carrier and saves you costly roaming charges if you travel abroad. Unlocked phones also have greater resale value.
Instructions
1. Dial *#06# on your Motorola W181 to see its IMEI (Individual Mobile Equipment Identity). You will need this number to get an unlock code.
2. Visit the Moto Unlock Now website to get your unlock code (see References). As of August 2010, you'll be charged $25 for a Motorola unlock code. Enter your phone's IMEI in the field labeled "Your IMEI number" and click the "Buy Now" button. On the next page, pay the fee through PayPal and you will receive the unlock code and unlocking instructions by email within two business days.
3. Purchase the unlock code from the Motorola Unlocker website (see References). Fill in the form on the website with your name, email address, Motorola phone model, IMEI number and current network. Then choose a currency from the "Select Currency" list and click the "Order Unlock Code" button. Select a payment method (credit card or PayPal) on the next page and make the payment. As of August 2010, the fee is $11.18. The unlock code will be sent to you by email.
4. Obtain the unlock code from the 3G Unlock website (see References). Open the website and select "W181" from the phone model list and enter the IMEI number in the next field. Then select the service provider that's locked your phone, enter your email address and press the "Continue" button. Click the "Next" button on the next page after reviewing your order and make the payment through PayPal. The amount depends on your service provider. The unlock code and unlocking instructions will be emailed to you.
5. Follow the unlocking instructions and enter the code into your Motorola W181 to unlock it.
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