If you own a network-locked Samsung Galaxy S4 (GT-I9505) there would be times when you are unable to use the handset when traveling abroad. While most operators let users unlock the smartphone for a small fee, not everyone is that lucky.

A major drawback of purchasing a device from a network operator is that if a user is unhappy with the carrier's service he or she will be stuck. Alternately, if one wants to buy an unlocked phone then you have to shell out quite a bit thanks to the premium prices. But an unlocked smartphone gives a user the flexibility to use a SIM from any network operator on the handset and one need not be bound to one carrier.

For those who travel abroad frequently, having an unlocked smartphone is beneficial as one may not want to pay roaming charges and would rather use a local SIM, which works out to be cheaper.

While one can get pretty much any device unlocked by paying a unlocking fee directly to the carrier or several online services that let you purchase an IMEI unlock, nothing beats unlocking your smartphone for free! We take you through a step-by-step guide on how to unlock your Galaxy S4 model number GT-I9505 for free.

Remember that the instructions are applicable only for use with the Galaxy S4 GT-I9505. Users should note that the instructions given in this guide are meant for reference purpose only and do not cover any warranty claims involving device damage. Users are advised to proceed at their own risk. iTechPost takes no responsibility for any damage or issues you may encounter with your Galaxy S4, including bricking your device.

Procedure

Step 1: Open the Phone app on your Galaxy S4 and dial *#0011#.

Step 2: Next, press the Menu button followed by the Back key. Next, tap the Menu button once more and select KEY INPUT. Enter 1 and select OK to enter ServiceMode.

Step 3: Press Menu and tap Back again (this pulls up the Main Menu, for ServiceMode. Tap [1] UMTS.)

Step 4: Next, select [1]DEBUG SCREEN followed by [6] PHONE CONTROL.

Step 5: From the next screen choose [6] NETWORK LOCK.

Step 6: You'll receive three options. Select the one which reads [3] PERSO SHA256 OFF.

Step 7: Next, go back to Main Menu. To do this, select the Menu button followed by the Back key. In the Main Menu, select [6]COMMON and then [6] NV REBUILD.

Step 8: You'll receive a notification that a Golden Backup exists. Tap [4] Restore Back-up.

Step 9: Your Galaxy S4 will now go through a sequence of "conditions", where it will first freeze and the screen will go black with Blue LED and both capacitive buttons on, post which the smartphone will reboot automatically.

This whole process may take a few minutes, so be patient. Once the Galaxy S4 powers on it's permanently network unlocked.