---
title: How do GSM Unlocked phones work?
description: This information applies to both Premium SIM cards and older, Standard SIMs To understand what a GSM unlocked phone is, and what it does, you must first understand what GSM technology is, and how it w
---
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# How do GSM Unlocked phones work?
**This information applies to both Premium SIM service**
To understand what a GSM unlocked phone is, and what it does, you must first understand what GSM technology is, and how it works.
**What is GSM technology?**
GSM (Global System for Mobile) is a special kind of phone technology. It works by attaching account information (like your phone number, plan details, contact list, and more) to a SIM card.
Then, you put that SIM card into a compatible device, and you can use the device to make calls, send text messages, and download apps. If the phone you're using is not the right kind of phone, it will not be able to access the information (phone number, plan details, contact list, and more) that is on the SIM card.
**Locked vs unlocked phones**
Sometimes, companies that sell phones want you to use the phone with *their* SIM cards. So they will **LOCK** the phone.
However, if you buy a phone that is **UNLOCKED**, you can use it with any SIM card, including UNREAL Mobile's SIM cards. Buying a phone directly from the company that makes the phones (called the phone manufacturer), instead of buying it from a service provider, is one way to get an **UNLOCKED** device. For example, if you pay full price for an iPhone directly from the Apple store, instead of buying it from a service provider like AT&T, you will have the chance to purchase the phone **UNLOCKED**.
But, you can also get **UNLOCKED** phones from retailers like Amazon or eBay, or even physical stores like Fry's Electronics and Best Buy. Make sure when you read the product description that "GSM Unlocked" is specified.
Phones purchased from the UNREAL Mobile website, on our new, Premium platform, are locked to the GSM network. For unlocking details, [click here](https://help.unrealmobile.com/hc/en-us/articles/360043268991?hsLang=en).
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