| Updated:
Which mobile operator is the fastest at unlocking handsets?
Mobile operator Three offers the fastest and cheapest mobile phone unlocking, taking just seven working days at no cost, and all its mobiles are now sold unlocked, according to a report from regulator Ofcom.
Meanwhile Virgin Mobile was found to be the slowest at unlocking its handsets, taking up to a month.
Locking handsets to a network is done by operators to ensure a phone is only used on its network. Usually handsets can be unlocked for a fee.
Time required to unlock a mobile handset (in days)
 |
7 |  |
10 |
 |
10 |  |
28 |
 |
10 |  |
30 |