Palm Treo cell phones which run on GSM networks are often “locked” by the GSM carriers so that they cannot be used on another GSM carriers network.

Unlocking can be done on GSM-based Treo phones such as the 650, 680, and 750. Unlocking does not apply to CDMA-based Treo phones such as the 700w.

The Treo Unlocking Urban Legend

There is a persistent, but incorrect, rumor on the Internet that you can unlock your Treo by pressing the key sequence *#*#1234# and then pressing the center D-pad button.

The Treo will then respond “Unlock Successful.”

Unfortunately, this does not unlock the subsidy lock. What this does is unlock a Treo which has has an incorrect security code entered more than three times.

Call Your Carrier to Unlock Your Treo

The easiest way to unlock your Treo is to call your carrier and ask them for the unlocking code.

Sometimes they will tell you your unlocking code and other times they will not. To get your unlocking code, your account must usually be in good standing. In addition, it usually helps to tell your carrier that you will soon be travveling outside of their coverage area.

If you get a customer service representative who absolutely will not help you, politely hang up and call back. The odds are good that you will talk to a more helpful representative on your next call.

Pay to Unlock Your Treo

There are many vendors who will take your money to unlock your Treo. These generally fall into three categories:

  • Vendors who sell Treo unlocking software
  • Vendors who will unlock your Treo over the web
  • Vendors who will unlock your Treo if you bring it into their store or ship it to them

These vendors all provide the same service, so they compete on price and convenience.

You should not have to pay to unlock your Treo unless you are having difficulties working with your GSM service provider.