YOU ARE HERE: LAT HomeCollectionsSmartphones

Unlocking smartphones without permission illegal after Friday

January 25, 2013|By Salvador Rodriguez
  • Starting on Saturday, it'll be illegal to unlock smartphones without carrier permission, but people can buy devices that come already unlocked.
Starting on Saturday, it'll be illegal to unlock smartphones without… (Apple )


Carriers lock smartphones -- which they typically subsidize in the U.S. -- as a way to prevent their customers from getting a cellular plan with a different company.

10 tech companies to watch in 2013


The change was made because the Librarian of Congress determined that consumers have a number of alternatives to unlocking devices, including buying devices that come already unlocked.

Users who want to unlock their devices before it becomes illegal at midnight can head over to iFixit, which opposes the change and has a variety of links on how to unlock phones.

"For many users, unlocking a phone is a necessary fix, opening up a feature and freedom that people need to effectively use their devices," a blog post by iFixit says. "The Copyright Office’s decision to outlaw this right of ownership hurts users and further empowers carriers to trap consumers."


Exxon surpasses Apple as world's most valuable company

Android app will snap photo of thief trying to unlock your device

AT&T buys Verizon's high-speed cellphone spectrum in 18 states

Los Angeles Times Articles