Mobile operators in the UK will be banned from selling locked phones from December 2021, making it easier than ever to switch networks and find a better deal. While consumers have the legal right to unlock their phones, it can be an inconvenient process. If an unlock code is delayed or doesn't work, there is a potential loss of service, while some people may not know their device is locked at all. Several providers including O2, Sky, Three and Virgin Media already offer unlocked phones as standard. However, others, such as EE, Vodafone and Tesco Mobile, require customers to pay a fee to unlock their mobile phone.
Locked phone ban
Ofcom has decided that the additional costs and actions required to unlock a device are unacceptable and inconsistent with its drive to boost competition in the UK mobile market and make switching providers as easy as possible. “We know that many people can be discouraged because their phone is locked,” said Selina Chadha, Ofcom's director of connectivity. "Therefore, we are banning cell phone companies from selling locked phones, which will save people time, money and effort, and help them get better deals." Last year, the communications regulator introduced landmark legislation that allowed customers to leave its network simply by sending a text message to their operator. He believed his latest actions would remove another obstacle to change. Essentially, starting next year, anyone will be able to text and immediately use any phone with a new carrier. Research suggests no-contract mobile phone users are wasting hundreds of millions of pounds a year by not upgrading to a better rate, especially a SIM-only offer that allows customers to use their existing smartphones. "We know that some customers who stay with the same carrier for long periods of time are more likely to overpay than customers who switch, so this ban on selling locked phones should make things easier for customers looking to switch. best deal,” added Natalie Hitchins, Consumer Watchdog's director of home products and services.