How to Unlock a Paid Off HTC M8 Edge Plan in 2024

In 2024, many people are still using their trusty HTC M8 smartphones that they purchased years ago. While most major carriers have shut down their legacy 2G and 3G networks by now, some HTC M8 owners may still be stuck with SIM locks even though they paid off their device financing long ago. Thankfully, it is possible to legally unlock paid off HTC M8 devices from AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, Sprint and other carriers so you can use your phone freely on any compatible network domestically or internationally. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process to unlock a paid off HTC M8 edge plan in 2024.

Check Unlock Eligibility with Original Carrier

The first step is to contact your original carrier (the one your phone is currently locked to) and request for it to be unlocked. Each major carrier has their own eligibility requirements and processes.

AT&T Unlock Requirements

To request an AT&T unlock, your HTC M8 must:

Be paid off fully with no outstanding monthly device payments
Have had active AT&T service for at least 60 days
Have had no reported loss, theft or fraud

Check AT&T’s full unlocking policy here.

Verizon Unlock Requirements

Verizon has the most consumer-friendly policy, automatically unlocking devices 60 days after activation, regardless of device payment status. So most Verizon HTC M8 phones should already be unlocked.

Check Sprint’s full unlocking policy here.

T-Mobile Unlock Requirements

To qualify for a T-Mobile unlock, your paid off HTC M8 must have:

Had active service on the T-Mobile network for at least 40 consecutive days
No pending or delinquent payments

The other major carriers like Sprint and regional carriers have similar eligibility stipulations in place. Confirm that you meet their unlock criteria before proceeding.

Check T-Mobile’s full unlocking policy here.

Submit Unlock Request and Get Unlock Code

If you meet the original carrier’s unlock eligibility requirements, you can submit an official unlock request. In 2024 the process is very straightforward for all major carriers:

Online Unlock Request

AT&T – Log in to your AT&T Unlock Portal and submit the online form. Type in your device IMEI and other information as prompted.
Verizon – If your phone didn’t automatically unlock, you can submit a Verizon unlock request online here.
T-Mobile – File an online unlock request through your My T-Mobile account dashboard.
Sprint – Sign in to your Sprint account and navigate to the Device Unlock page to submit your unlock request.

In most cases for paid off devices, the carrier will process the request immediately or within 1-2 business days. You will then receive a 6-20 digit unlock code securely via email or text.

Enter Unlock Code

Once you get this unlock code from your carrier, you then simply need to enter it into your HTC M8 from the lock screen to finish the SIM unlock process.

Go to the Unlock screen on your phone under Settings > About Phone > Unlock bootloader.
Carefully type in the full unlock code provided by your carrier.
Press Unlock.

That’s it! Your HTC M8 will now accept any eligible Nano SIM card from compatible domestic or international GSM carriers worldwide. The final step is inserting your new carrier’s SIM card and enjoying unlocked freedom on your paid off HTC M8.

Use Caution with Third Party Unlock Services

With most carrier unlock requirements being quite straightforward for paid off devices in 2024, it’s best not to use any unauthorized third party unlocking services found online. Not only are they legally questionable in many cases, but they also expose you to potential fraud. It’s safer and guaranteed to get your HTC M8 unlock code directly from the source – your original carrier.

Get a Replacement Unlock Code if Needed

On rare occasions, the unlock code provided by a carrier may not successfully unlock due to random glitches or device-specific issues. If that happens with your HTC M8, don’t panic. You can always log back into the respective carrier’s unlock portal (or call their support line) to safely request a replacement unlock code. Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile and most carriers usually issue replacement codes instantly with no hassle.

Unlock Benefits – Use Your M8 Worldwide!

The awesome benefit of officially unlocking your paid off HTC M8 is that you can then use it internationally on foreign GSM networks when traveling abroad! In 2024 upwards of 65% of mobile networks globally are GSM, making your unlocked Quad-band M8 compatible in most countries.

You also have the flexibility to get local nano SIM cards for foreign carriers at very low rates. For example the Vodafone Travel Pass offers unlimited data, calls and texts for just $5/day in over 100 countries. Beats paying exorbitant international roaming fees from your existing carrier!

Unlocking your phone also allows you to easily switch carriers for improved domestic coverage, better deals, or to vote with your wallet if you are unsatisfied with your current provider’s policies or political donations.

Conclusion

Unlocking a paid off HTC M8 in 2024 is very straightforward with all major carriers as per FCC regulations guaranteeing consumers this right. Just make sure you meet eligibility terms, get your official network unlock code securely, enter it carefully, and enjoy unlocked freedom worldwide with your legacy M8. Bon voyage!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How old is the HTC One M8?

The HTC One M8 was released in March 2014, making it over 8 years old as of 2022.

What version of Android is the HTC M8 running?

The HTC One M8 launched with Android 4.4 KitKat and its last major update was to Android 6.0 Marshmallow.

How do I hard reset my HTC One M8?

You can hard reset the HTC One M8 by going to Settings > Backup & Reset > Reset Device and then selecting “Delete All Data”.

Is the HTC M8 a good phone?

For its time, the HTC One M8 was considered an excellent flagship phone with its premium metal design, powerful stereo speakers, and good camera. However, its specs and software are now extremely outdated.

Why is HTC so good?

HTC phones were once prized for their premium designs, display quality, audio, and innovative features. But the company has declined and now faces stiff competition from Samsung, Apple, and Chinese brands.

Is the HTC M8 a 4G phone?

Yes, the HTC One M8 is a 4G LTE capable smartphone. However, it only supports older networks and technologies up to 4G, not modern 5G networks.

Why did HTC stop making phones?

HTC struggled with declining phone sales due to strong competition. In 2018, it sold part of its design division to Google so it could focus more on VR headsets and enterprise solutions rather than consumer smartphones.

Does HTC still make phones?

HTC has greatly reduced its smartphone business but does still make a few niche, blockchain-focused phones like the Exodus 1. It primarily focuses now on VR and enterprise products rather than mainstream consumer phones.

How do I turn on my HTC One M8?

To turn on the HTC One M8, hold down the Power button located on the top right edge of the phone for a few seconds until the screen illuminates.

How do I unlock my HTC lock screen pattern?

You can unlock the pattern lock by correctly tracing your unlock pattern or entering your lock screen PIN or backup password if enabled. If you forgot the pattern, you’ll have to factory reset the phone.

How do you reboot an HTC One?

To reboot an HTC One like the M8, hold down the Power and Volume Down buttons simultaneously for 10-15 seconds until the phone powers down. Then power it back on.

Is HTC a Chinese brand?

No. HTC is a Taiwanese consumer electronics company.

Which is better – HTC or Samsung?

For newer phones, Samsung is likely the better choice over HTC for overall features and support. But historically HTC made excellent flagship phones that competed closely with Samsung.

Who made HTC phones?

HTC (High Tech Computer Corporation) is the original designer and manufacturer behind all HTC phones. Many of its older phones were acclaimed for innovations and design.