Removing AT&T’s custom firmware from the Nokia N75 has been well covered on the ‘net but the trick is getting the device unlock code from AT&T. Some Googling revealed that AT&T was releasing an Over-the-Air (OTA) firmware update so I called into their Customer Service to learn more.

The nice woman I spoke to knew exactly what I was asking about and proceeded to tell me details when the mobile connection dropped. Ah, yes, “more bars in more places” might be the slogan but how about “keeping a connection in all places?” She called back and left a voicemail with none of the details I hoped for; instead, she said to wait for an SMS or visit Nokia’s USA web site.

My searching at HowardForums revealed that folks were getting an update but all I could find was version 10.1.282 which was already loaded on my phone. It turns out this is the firmware update but not what I wanted. The goal is removal of the AT&T modifications (i.e.: crapware) and run the stock Nokia firmware.

The trickiest part of the debranding process is unlocking the N75. My first attempt at an unlock code was via e-mail to AT&T customer sevice stating I wanted to use my phone abroad. This was kindly answered with a suggestion to use AT&T’s new International Roaming service and if that was insufficient, a long list of criteria for getting an unlock code.

Let’s just say I didn’t meet any them. My device was subsidized. I didn’t pay an early termination fee to move elsewhere. I wasn’t a customer for more than 90 days.

Undeterred, I picked up the phone and used a little social engineering. The first level CS rep had no clue what I was talking about so I was transferred to level two support. As for my “social engineering” skillz I used honesty: please send me an unlock code so I can update my phone’s firmware. The fellow agreed and sent a request to the Unlock Department but didn’t make any promises.

Two days later my code arrived. I followed Peter’s instructions and within a short time my N75 was unlocked and debranded. All the expected Nseries goodies are there with none of the bloat. The phone’s a bit faster as well but unfortunately the 2 MP camera is no better.

If you can pull this off with AT&T, do it. You won’t be disappointed.

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