The Samsung Galaxy Note 8 is one of Samsung’s flagship phones, offering top-of-the-line specs and features. However, many Note 8 devices sold by carriers come locked to that carrier’s network. Unlocking your Note 8 allows you to use it on other compatible networks, giving you more flexibility if you decide to switch carriers. Fortunately, unlocking a Samsung Galaxy Note 8 is a straightforward process.
Why Unlock Your Note 8
Here are some of the key benefits of unlocking your Galaxy Note 8:
Use Different Carriers An unlocked Note 8 can work on most GSM networks around the world. This allows you to swap out SIM cards and use different carriers when traveling internationally.
Improved Resale Value
Unlocked phones typically have higher resale values compared to locked phones. This is because an unlocked phone is more versatile for potential buyers.
Fewer Carrier Restrictions Unlocked phones aren’t tied to a particular carrier firmware. This means you may get software updates directly from Samsung rather than waiting for carrier testing.
Also Read: Unlock a Samsung Galaxy S10/S10+/S10e: Complete Instructions
Before You Unlock
Check if your Note 8 is eligible to be unlocked. Most carriers have requirements you must meet:
- The device must be fully paid off. There can be no outstanding balance or fees.
- The device must be active on the carrier’s network for a certain time period, usually 40-60 days.
- Your account must be in good standing. If your service was recently suspended for late payments, you may need to wait.
Contact your carrier to request the unlock code. Most postpaid carriers will provide this after you meet their eligibility requirements. You may need to provide details like your IMEI number or account PIN.
What You’ll Need
Unlocking a phone is only a few steps, but having everything ready makes it simple. Here is what you’ll need:
- Your Note 8 device
- The unlock code provided by your carrier
- A non-accepted SIM card from another GSM carrier
Also Read: How to Unlock Samsung J3 Luna Pro: Sim Network Pin Unlock
How to Unlock a Samsung Galaxy Note 8
Follow these steps to successfully unlock your Note 8:
Back Up Your Data
Before making any major changes to your device, it’s wise to back up your data. This includes contacts, photos, text messages and more. You can back up to the cloud, your computer or an SD card.
Insert Non-Accepted SIM Card
Power off your device and insert a non-accepted SIM card from another carrier. For example, if your Note 8 is currently on the AT&T network, insert a T-Mobile or Verizon SIM card instead.
When powered on, you should see a prompt that the SIM card is from another carrier. There may also be an “Unlock device” option visible in Settings.
Enter Unlock Code
The next step when prompted is to enter the unlock code provided by your current carrier. This unique code essentially verifies your device is eligible and approved to be unlocked.
Triple check you enter the correct code, as multiple wrong entries can get your device blacklisted or blocked entirely.
Confirm Device is Unlocked
After entering the correct unlock code, you should receive confirmation that your Note 8 is now network unlocked.
To test, power down, insert the original accepted SIM card, then power back on. Confirm service is still active.
Then, power down again and replace with the non-accepted SIM card. If your device remains unlocked, you should now see that carrier’s service on your Note 8 without issues.
Reset Network Settings
As an optional step after unlocking, you can reset the network settings on your Note 8:
- Open Settings
- Select General Management
- Choose Reset
- Tap Reset Settings
- Enter your device PIN to confirm
This will clear out any leftover carrier firmware or configurations. It allows your device to freshly connect to new networks.
Also Read: How to Unlock a Samsung Galaxy S7 to Use With Any Carrier
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Galaxy Note 8 be unlocked?
Yes, the Galaxy Note 8 can be unlocked to work on other carrier networks domestically and internationally. Unlocking can be done through your carrier or third party unlocking services.
What is the 8 digit unlock code for Samsung?
Samsung devices don’t use an 8 digit unlock code. The unlock code provided by third party services is usually a 15-20 digit SIM network unlock pin that allows the device to work on other carriers.
How do I reset my note 8 without password?
If you forgot your lock screen password, you can factory reset the Note 8 to wipe the device and regain access. This resets it back to factory default settings.
Can I unlock my Samsung myself?
It is possible to unlock some Samsung devices yourself using unlocking software like Dr.Fone and FreeUnlocks. This generates an unlock code you can input to unlock the phone.
Can Samsung Note 8 be tracked?
Yes, the Note 8 can be tracked if you previously set up Find My Mobile on your Samsung account. This allows you to remotely locate, lock, and erase a lost or stolen device.
How do I hard reset my Samsung Note 8?
To hard reset, turn off the phone, then press and hold the Volume Up, Bixby and Power buttons together until the recovery menu loads. Use volume keys to scroll to Wipe data/factory reset and select with power button.
Can I unlock my phone for free?
Some carriers provide free unlocks after meeting certain requirements. Otherwise, third party services offer relatively inexpensive unlocks for $30-$50 on average. Some free software tools are available but not as reliable.
Can I unlock my Samsung phone with IMEI number?
Yes, most unlocking services only need the IMEI number to identify the device and generate an unlock code capable of working on other networks.
How do I unlock my Samsung secret code?
There are no hidden secret unlock codes for Samsung devices. All network unlocking requires an unlock pin or code provided by the carrier or third party unlock services after submitting IMEI and details.
What if I locked a note and forgot the password?
If you can’t recall your lock screen password, you’ll need to factory reset the device using hardware button combinations. Just know this erase all local data in the process.
How do you soft reset a note 8?
To soft reset, press and hold the Power and Volume Down buttons simultaneously for 10+ seconds until device restarts. This can help resolve temporary system errors and glitches.
How to reset Samsung Galaxy 8?
For Galaxy S8, power off the phone then press and hold Volume Down, Bixby and Power buttons together. When recovery menu loads, choose Wipe data/factory reset to erase all content and settings from device storage.
Enjoy Your Unlocked Samsung Galaxy Note 8!
And that’s it! With those simple steps, you can unlock your Note 8 and enjoy the freedom of an unlocked device.
- Check if your carrier allows unlocking and obtain the unlock code
- Back up important data before making changes
- Insert non-accepted SIM card and enter unlock code when prompted
- Confirm successful unlock and test with different SIM cards
- Reset network settings to clear configurations (optional)
Unlocking your Note 8 allows it to work on almost any GSM network. This gives you more choices as a user in case you ever decide to switch cell phone carriers. And it typically increases the resale value if you ever choose to trade it in or sell your device later.