AT&T offers free unlocking codes in proposed settlement

AT&T is on the cusp of an agreement that will allow users to get their unlock code within specified time frames, as a proposed settlement comes from the class action lawsuit outlined at ATTUnlockingLawsuits.com. 

If you've activated a prepaid phone from AT&T or an authorized retailer, you can get your unlock code from AT&T if you can produce a detailed receipt (sorry, no eBay purchases qualify). If you've activated a post-paid phone, you only have to wait 90 days on any non exclusive device, and 10 months if it's an exclusive device. Consumers can request up to five devices per year, per account.

We're not sure this is a win or not for consumers, or just for the ones who aren't savvy enough to get them on their own or pay to have them unlocked. As T-Mobile is the only other carrier in the US that offers GSM service, it's a choice, but perhaps not the choice you wanted. 

At this stage (5/25/2010) this is considered to be a proposed settlement, and should begin June 4, 2010. We'll update this page as more information becomes available. In the meantime, if you want your cell phone unlocked, click here.