Updated for 2025 — If you’ve recently purchased a Google Pixel that’s locked to a single carrier (T-Mobile, AT&T, Verizon, etc.), you may feel limited in how you can use your device. Maybe you travel often, want to switch to a cheaper SIM card, or bought a second-hand Pixel but can’t use it with your local provider. That’s where carrier unlocking comes in.

In this step-by-step Pixel Carrier Unlock guide, we’ll cover everything:

• ✅ What “carrier unlock” actually means
• ✅ Whether it’s legal & safe
• ✅ Free vs. official unlock methods
• ✅ Step-by-step ADB method (technical but effective)
• ✅ Carrier unlock request process (official way)
• ✅ Important disclaimers for safe usage

By the end, you’ll know how to unlock your Google Pixel from any carrier, safely and legally, so you can enjoy true freedom with your device.

What Is Carrier Unlocking on a Google Pixel?

“Carrier unlocking” means removing the restrictions that bind your Google Pixel to a specific carrier’s SIM card. For example:

• A Pixel purchased through T-Mobile may not accept an AT&T SIM until it’s unlocked.
• Carrier locks are usually added to ensure you stay on their network until your contract or installment plan is complete.

👉 After unlocking:

• You can use any compatible SIM card worldwide.
• Your Pixel works with local SIMs while traveling (saving roaming costs).
• The resale value of your Pixel increases.

Is Carrier Unlocking Legal?

Yes. Unlocking your Pixel is legal under U.S. law and in many other regions as long as you own the device outright or have explicit permission.

🔒 Illegal cases:

• Unlocking stolen or unpaid devices.
• Using bypass methods for fraud or reselling blacklisted devices.

✅ Legal cases:

• Unlocking your own Pixel.
• Requesting unlock from your carrier after meeting requirements.
• Using tools like ADB (Android Debug Bridge) for educational and repair purposes.

📢 Disclaimer: This guide is intended strictly for educational and repair purposes. GSM6.com does not encourage unauthorized access. You are responsible for ensuring compliance with local laws and carrier policies.

Pixel Carrier Unlock Methods (2025)

There are two main ways to carrier unlock your Pixel:

1. Official Carrier Unlock

   • Request an unlock directly from your carrier (free if eligible).
   • Usually permanent and safe.
   • Takes 24–72 hours in most cases.

2. ADB / Technical Unlock (Advanced Method)

   • Uses command-line tools (ADB).
   • Works for technicians, advanced users, or when carrier unlock is not available.
   • Requires following technical steps carefully.

We’ll cover both below 👇

Method 1: Official Carrier Unlock (Recommended)

The easiest and most secure option is to request an unlock from your carrier. Most U.S. and international carriers allow this once certain conditions are met.

Carrier Unlock Requirements

• The Pixel must be paid off in full.
• The device must not be reported lost, stolen, or blacklisted.
• The device must be active on the network for a set time (e.g., 40–60 days).

Carrier Unlock Request Process

1. Insert your carrier SIM card (e.g., AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon).
2. Call or chat with carrier support:
   • Example: “I would like to request a carrier unlock for my Google Pixel, IMEI: [your IMEI here].”
3. Wait for confirmation (usually 1–3 business days).
4. Once approved, restart your Pixel with a new SIM card.

👉 If approved, your Pixel will now work with any carrier worldwide.

Method 2: Technical Unlock (ADB Command Guide)

If your carrier refuses or you want to learn the manual method, you can use ADB commands to disable restrictions.

Warning

This method is for technicians and advanced users only. A mistake could cause errors in your device setup. Proceed at your own risk.

Step 1: Prepare Your Device for free carrier unlock pixel phone (all models)

• Remove the SIM card.
• Perform a factory reset (Settings > System > Reset).
• Set up the Pixel offline (do not connect to Wi-Fi yet).

Step 2: Disable Device Setup App Background Data

1. Go to Settings > Apps > Show system apps.
2. Search Device Setup.
3. Open Data Usage settings.
4. Turn OFF Background Data and Unrestricted Data Access.

Step 3: Install & Use ADB

1. Download and install Minimal ADB & Fastboot on your PC. (download from here)
2. Download & Install Compatible Android USB drivers. (Download from here)
3. Enable Developer Options on Pixel:
   • Go to Settings > About Phone > Tap Build Number 7 times.
   • Enable USB Debugging.
4. Connect your Pixel to PC with a USB cable.
5. Open Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (Mac/Linux).
6. Type the following commands one by one:

adb shell cmd appops set com.google.android.apps.work.oobconfig WAKE_LOCK deny adb shell cmd appops set com.google.android.apps.work.oobconfig RUN_IN_BACKGROUND deny adb shell cmd appops set com.google.android.apps.work.oobconfig RUN_ANY_IN_BACKGROUND deny adb shell cmd appops set com.google.android.apps.work.oobconfig START_FOREGROUND deny adb shell cmd appops set com.google.android.apps.work.oobconfig ACCESS_RESTRICTED_SETTINGS deny

Step 4: Finalize Unlock

• Insert your SIM card.
• Reboot your Pixel.
• Complete the setup process.

✅ Your Pixel should now accept carrier SIM cards.

For Future Software Updates

If you used the ADB method:

1. Download the update.
2. Before rebooting, turn on Airplane Mode.
3. Reboot the Pixel.
4. Clear Device Setup cache and repeat Step 2 above.
5. Turn off Airplane Mode.

Carrier Unlock Tools & Requirements

ADB Commands Reference

Final Disclaimer

📢 Disclaimer
All APKs, tools, and commands in this guide are shared for educational and repair purposes only. GSM6.com does not promote illegal usage, bypassing ownership verification, or tampering with stolen devices.

• We do not host copyrighted or malicious files.
• All resources are either original, open-source, or publicly available.
• Use at your own risk.
• GSM6.com is not responsible for any damage, data loss, or legal issues caused by misuse.

By using this guide, you agree that:

• You are the rightful device owner or have explicit permission.
• You are not violating local laws or carrier terms.

Conclusion

Unlocking your Google Pixel’s carrier restrictions gives you freedom, flexibility, and value.

• If eligible, the official carrier unlock is the best, safest choice.
• If not, the ADB technical method works as a fallback (for advanced users).
• Always act legally, responsibly, and with full ownership rights.

Whether you travel internationally, want to switch carriers, or plan to resell your Pixel, an unlocked device ensures you’re never locked down again.

👉 Follow this 2025 Pixel Carrier Unlock Guide step by step, and your Google Pixel will be free to use on any network worldwide

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