Anyone know how to unlock a cell phone without spending enough to buy a new one?

There is no one answer. It depends on the type of phone the carrier and the network. Usually phones on GSM networks have SIM cards.The Sim card keeps all your info on the card...so all you do is swap out the card to your new phone.

CDMA networks keep the information on the handset itself.

Sprint will not unlock a cell phone and won't start service on a non sprint branded phone. T-mobile,Verizon, and Cingular (ATT) has no clear policy. Sprint and Verizon are CDMA, while Att and t-mobile are GSM.

Many companies have software that will "lock" your GSM phone to their network.There are numerous unlock codes on the internet..it's a cottage industry.

If your phone is through a mobile virtual network operator( like virgin mobile or boost) you're out of luck! Even though boost and virgin use the sprint network, you can't use a prepaid phone for sprint service. (it's a non compete agreement as it would lose both companies money if everyone bought phones from virgin mobile and switched to sprint.)

So you may be able to get your phone unlocked but don't count on it. And if you can't buy a new one, check out ebay for a used one.

Your question is vague. What type of cellphone do you have? Most locked cellphones can be unlocked using a software program especially designed for said purpose.

Do a search for the words "unlock" and your phone brand and model.

The programs will be most found on forums.

The only thing it might cost you is to be the connector that goes from your computer to your phone.

Good luck.

No, this is inpossible because their is special software inside of all prepaid phones that deducts the minutes off the phone. When your contract is up just go month to month without signing new contract.

look through the manual