TF unlock code

[Chris109]

I wanted to see about unlocking my old backup TF LG Treasure (LGL51AL) that I haven't used been used in almost 2 years and try out another service with new number. It was deactivated 6/2/18. I called TF and they told me that because the phone hasn't been 'used' (activated) in over a year, the only way they could unlock it was for it to be used again for a year before they could do it. Does that make any sense? They can't unlock an old unused phone?

[loboheeler]

From the TF Unlocking Policy:
"Customers must request this interim unlocking solution while their service is active or within 60 days after their active service days expire."

They are not going to reactivate it either, not being VoLTE capable.

[hpham]

They are not going to reactivate it either, not being VoLTE capable.

Info from Google search says the L51AL is a GSM model.

[loboheeler]

Info from Google search says the L51AL is a GSM model.

Dumb me! Yes, "AL" is for AT&T. You don't see that used as much anymore. GSM is now mostly "BL" or can be "DL". At least you knew which GSM you were getting with "AL" and "TL".

[Chris109]

So, it's basically just a useless phone then unless I use it with TF?

[Boz1]

So, it's basically just a useless phone then unless I use it with TF?

Yes, if TF won't unlock the SIM card slot.

[loboheeler]

So, it's basically just a useless phone then unless I use it with TF?

Even if you reactivated it and waited another 12 months, they might not unlock it. Many just got pittance buyback offers. The FCC gave then that option, which is a bad joke.

[Chris109]

Even if you reactivated it and waited another 12 months, they might not unlock it. Many just got pittance buyback offers. The FCC gave then that option, which is a bad joke.

I don't care about getting anything for it. I just wanted to try using it on Mint Mobile cause they are running a special. It's the only GSM phone I have.

[ST Dog]

The FCC gave then that option, which is a bad joke.

Because a lot of the old phones don't have the needed software to unlock the SIM. So they were given the buy back option to cover those.

Whether they abuse that is questionable, but there were valid reasons for the option.

[ST Dog]

I don't care about getting anything for it.

But that may be all they offer to do. Hard to know in advance.

And even if unlocked, would the hardware/software support Mint/T-Mobile?

I just wanted to try using it on Mint Mobile cause they are running a special. It's the only GSM phone I have.

Easier to just get a cheap used Unlocked phone for testing/trials.

[Chris109]

Easier to just get a cheap used Unlocked phone for testing/trials.

I know, but since I already had this one, this would be my test subject.

I may just buy an unlocked phone that has all four carriers, use it for a bit with Mint, and eventually move my regular TF account (VZ) to it if that can be done.

[loboheeler]

I may just buy an unlocked phone that has all four carriers, use it for a bit with Mint, and eventually move my regular TF account (VZ) to it if that can be done.

Worth investing in an unlocked phone for the versatility of putting on the service you want. Motos are good values for this with the wide band support. My G5 Plus looks like it can be used most anywhere in the world.