Before using Unity Extend, all devices must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Carrier agnostic (unlocked) device
- VoLTE (Voice over LTE) capable
- eSIM capable (where applicable)
It’s the customer’s responsibility to ensure that all devices used with the service meet the minimum requirements.
Customers using third-party overlay services such as, call recording, dialler, or mobile management applications should assess any potential compatibility impacts before deploying Unity Extend.
Checking if Your Device is Unlocked
Before installing a Unity Extend eSIM, you should confirm that your device is carrier unlocked.
Apple iPhone
Method 1: Check Network Lock Status
- Go to Settings > General > About
- Locate Network Provider Lock
- If the status displays No SIM Restrictions, the device is unlocked
Method 2: Check Available Networks
- Go to Settings > Mobile Data > Network Selection
- Search for available networks
Results:
- Multiple networks displayed = likely unlocked
- Single network displayed = device may be locked
Samsung Devices
Check Network Operators
- Go to Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Network Operators
- Select Search Networks
Results:
- Multiple networks available = likely unlocked
- Single network available = device may be locked
Google Pixel Devices
Check Carrier Settings
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network
- Review available carrier information
Check Network Selection
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Advanced > Carrier
- View available carriers
Results:
- Multiple carriers available = likely unlocked
- Single carrier available = device may be locked
If Your Device Is Locked
If your device is carrier locked, contact the provider that originally supplied the handset.
Mobile Network Unlock Information
- EE
https://ee.co.uk/plans-subscriptions/mobile/settings-permissions/device-unlock - O2
https://www.o2.co.uk/help/account/joining-and-leaving-o2/unlocking-an-o2-mobile-to-use-on-a-different-network - Vodafone
https://www.vodafone.co.uk/help/unlocking-your-phone - Three
https://www.three.ie/unlock-my-phone/
Note: Carrier locks apply to the entire device. It is not possible to unlock individual SIM slots independently.
SIM Options
Unity Extend supports both eSIM and physical SIM deployment options, providing flexibility to meet a range of business and device requirements.
eSIM (Embedded SIM) – Recommended
eSIM is the preferred deployment method for Unity Extend, offering a faster, simpler, and more cost-effective user experience.
Benefits of eSIM
- Rapid deployment through a simple QR code activation process
- No physical distribution required, eliminating shipping and handling delays
- Lower operational costs compared to physical SIM cards
- Reduced environmental impact through the removal of plastic SIM cards and associated packaging
- Fully digital installation, allowing users to activate services within minutes
How eSIM Works
- An eSIM is embedded within the device and does not require a physical SIM card.
- Users activate the service by scanning a QR code provided during onboarding.
- Most modern smartphones support eSIM technology, including all devices listed within the Unity Extend supported handset portfolio.
- Some Unified Communications platforms, including Microsoft Teams Phone Mobile, provide integrated workflows for delivering and activating eSIMs for end users.
Note: Apple devices increasingly rely on eSIM technology. iPhone 13 and later models support multiple eSIM profiles, while US variants of the iPhone 14 and newer models are eSIM-only and do not include a physical SIM tray.
Physical SIM Cards
Physical SIM cards remain available for organisations with devices that do not support eSIM technology or where physical SIM deployment is preferred.
Features
- Available in triple-cut format, supporting:
- Standard (Mini) SIM
- Micro SIM
- Nano SIM
- Suitable for a wide range of compatible devices
Note: Some Unified Communications platforms, such as Microsoft Teams Phone Mobile, support only eSIM-based deployments and do not support physical SIM cards.
Choosing the Right Option
Both eSIM and pSIM deployments provide the same Unity Extend functionality and calling experience. The most appropriate option will depend on your device capabilities, preferred deployment method, and any platform-specific requirements.
For most organisations, eSIM is the recommended option due to its simplicity, speed of deployment, and reduced administrative overhead.