Samsung highlights new regional SIM lock feature for its smartphones

Samsung Gulf Electronics Co., Ltd, a global leader in digital media and digital convergence technologies is launching a campaign to educate consumers about a SIM Lock feature currently applicable with the GALAXY Note 3, which can lock the device if not purchased through authorized retailers. 

Samsung’s Regional SIM Lock is a new addition to its current smartphone features, introduced with the newly launched GALAXY Note 3 to provide quality customer service across the world and an optimized mobile user experience. 

With this feature, the GALAXY Note 3 will only be compatible with a SIM-card issued from a mobile operator within the region identified. When the smartphone is activated with a SIM-card from another region to where it was purchased, the device will be locked until it is released at the dedicated service center. 

Local consumer’s that bought their device in the UAE need not worry, as the regional SIM Lock feature is currently not available in the UAE but if consumer’s buy a device abroad and bring it back, they could find they are unable to use the device. By raising awareness of this feature, Samsung is highlighting the importance of purchasing its devices from authorized retailers and channels in the UAE. Buying devices that may have been brought into the region from abroad will not work due to the SIM Lock feature. 

However, if the smartphone is activated normally using a local SIM-card, the regional SIM Lock feature is automatically released and users can enjoy the roaming service as usual and can insert other international SIM Cards when travelling. 

The SIM Lock feature will also be rolled out to other Samsung devices including the GALAXY Note 2, GALAXY S3, GALAXY S4 and the GALAXY S4 Mini, through software updates. 

“This is an important feature that we have introduced in many other markets to help improve customer experiences and services. We wanted to highlight the importance of buying local devices from authorized retailers to avoid issues with international network configurations. It really applies to people who might buy a device in other country and bring it back here.” Said Mr. Hayssam Yassine, Head of Telecommunications Group at Samsung Gulf Electronics. 

“For example, if the smartphone was intended for the UK market but was brought back and registered in the UAE, the smartphone will lock and will not allow for any other SIM cards to be used. If users register their device in the country it was intended then the feature is universally unlocked and the consumer can travel to any country and use any network SIM Card.” Concluded Mr. Yassine.