If U.S. Cellular refuses or you can’t meet their terms:
If your goal is to use the S4 on a modern network, and buy an already unlocked GSM phone (like a Moto G or used Galaxy S9). The time and frustration with the SCH-R970 exceed the phone’s current value (~$30–50). how to unlock a us cellular samsung galaxy s4
The US Cellular Galaxy S4 (SCH-R970) is a unique beast. The US Cellular Galaxy S4 (SCH-R970) is a unique beast
: Unlocking a U.S. Cellular S4 is only useful for international travel or a basic GSM phone on T-Mobile/AT&T with slow data. Not worth it for daily use in 2025. Not worth it for daily use in 2025
If you are entering a code and it fails, stop immediately. You only get a limited number of attempts (usually 10). If you fail, the phone will be permanently "hard locked" and will require a cable unlock via a technician.
This is the safest and most reliable method. Since the Galaxy S4 is an older 4G LTE device, the unlock is usually handled via an "over-the-air" update or a specific code.